“Rebuilding After The Eaton Fires”
Donation protected
A History of Family and Community
I am a survivor of the Pasadena and Altadena Eaton Fires, my name is Sidney "Moody" Mitchell and I am proud to share a piece of my family’s history, deeply rooted in Pasadena. My grandparents, Harrison and Laura Bailey, moved to Pasadena in 1921, settling at 255 Waverly Drive, Pasadena, CA 91101.
Our family’s history is not just about the houses we’ve lived in or the events we’ve hosted; it’s about the connections we’ve fostered, the lives we’ve touched, and the community we’ve helped build. This legacy continues to inspire me today as I navigate through challenging times, and it is why I humbly reach out to those who have supported our family over the years.
What I went through during the Eaton Wildfires is something I never could have imagined. In the blink of an eye, I lost everything my home, my belongings, and the life I had worked so hard to build. All that was left were the clothes on my back and memories that can never be replaced.
It’s difficult to truly capture the depth of that kind of loss. It’s not just about the material things that were taken; it’s about a part of who I was and the life I had grown to love. The loss is surreal, humbling, and lonely. My home in Altadena was more than just a place to live; it was where I felt connected to the world around me. Now, with everything wiped away, I feel like a part of me has been erased as well.
I’ve never asked for help in this way before, and I’ll be honest it’s a humbling experience. But here I am, reaching out because I need to rebuild, to move forward our family legacy, and to regain what was lost.
I am 70 years old, living with permanent disability, and regaining my independence isn't easy. Every day presents new challenges, and the road ahead feels uncertain. It often feels as though I’m drifting, unsure of how to move forward when everything feels overwhelming.
Altadena has always been my home, and losing it in such a devastating way has left me feeling isolated. Most of my siblings are no longer here to share in the struggle, and I feel their absence deeply. Yet, through all the heartache, I find comfort in knowing I am not alone. Many others in Altadena are grieving the same loss, and together, we share this painful journey.
Despite everything, I am trying. I am trying to rebuild what I can, to regain what was lost, and to find hope where it feels hardest to see. Each day is a step toward healing, and even though the journey ahead feels daunting, I remain determined to move forward even if it’s just one small step at a time.
This fundraiser represents the first time in my entire life I’ve asked for help like this. It’s not easy, but it’s the reality I face now. Thank you for taking the time to hear my story. Your support, whether through prayers or donations, means more to me than I can express. This is my new journey, and with your help, I hope to find my way forward.
Thank you for standing with me during this difficult time. I will never forget your kindness.
Sincerely,
Sidney Mitchell
The Facts:
- A Survivor of the Altadena Wildfires: Lost everything I owned in the devastating fires but remain determined to rebuild my life and regain independence, despite the overwhelming challenges.
- Injured Maintenance Worker: I was injured on the job, and after undergoing multiple surgeries, I continue to face physical challenges while waiting for the compensation I am owed. Unfortunately, delays are expected due to the overwhelming number of claims being processed by insurance companies.
- Fighting for Fair Compensation: As a result of my injury, but the uncertainty of receiving timely compensation has made it even harder to navigate daily life.
- A Long-Time Resident of Pasadena and Altadena: I was born in Pasadena and have lived between both cities of Altadena/Pasadena my entire life. It is the only home I have ever known, and I have nowhere else to go.
- Facing Physical and Financial Struggles: At 70 years old, with permanent disability, the path ahead feels unclear, but I am trying my best to regain my independence, despite the hardships.
- Determined to Move Forward: Despite the trauma of losing everything in a flash and the weight of ongoing struggles, I am determined to rebuild and find a way to continue living with dignity and hope.
How Money Will Be Used:
- Rebuilding My Life: Funds will be used to help replace basic essentials that were lost in the fire, such as clothing.
- Addressing Medical Needs: Money will assist with medical bills related to surgeries and ongoing treatment, including any further care needed due to my injury.
- Securing a Safe Place to Live: With no other home to go to, I will use financial support to secure temporary or permanent housing so I can regain some stability.
- Covering Living Expenses: While waiting for compensation, money will be used to cover daily expenses, including food, utilities, and necessary transportation.
Organizer
Sidney Mitchell
Organizer
Altadena, CA