Rushing to help, losing everything: Uncle Larry Duff's Fight

My name is Rolanda Dean. I'm reaching out to share the story of my Uncle Larry Duff, who lost everything in the destructive Eaton Fire that tore through Altadena, California on January 7th, 2025. That evening, Uncle Larry had settled in for the night, believing he was safe from the fire that had been threatening the area. He had no idea that by the time he fell asleep, the fire was racing toward his home.

Around 10p.m., he was awakened by a family member, who urgently called him with news that the fire was rapidly advancing and a mandatory evacuation was in effect. In a state of panic and concern for the safety of other family members who needed help evacuating, Uncle Larry rushed out of his home at 3449 N. Fair Oaks Avenue Altadena, with only the clothes on his back. His mind was focused on getting to those who couldn't drive themselves to safety. By the time he left, his home was at risk--and it, like many others, was soon lost to the flames. Uncle Larry is now one of many facing an uncertain future.

As his family, we are doing everything we can to help him cope. However, the road ahead is long so we're reaching out to compassionate individuals like you. Your support, no matter the amount, can provide valuable resources to help Uncle Larry Duff.

Please consider donating to help him and others after this devastating loss. By Rolanda Dean (His niece)