Friends and family. If you know us you know we would never reach out for assistance unless it was absolutely necessary. Thursday, as hurricane Helene made it's way up Florida's Gulf coast, before it was even dark we lost 100% of our power. The storm advanced more quickly than any of the other hurricanes we have experienced. In the first hour we sat at our front window and watched the rising tide consume our street. In no time the rushing waters started to make their way into our home and after seeing both of our cars almost submerged, Joe, myself, and our 13 year old son Lyndon found ourselves having to escape out of our kitchen window. We trudged through the chest-high rushing current, 75+ mile hour winds, in complete darkness to the end of our street in order to get to higher ground. We found solace on the front porch of our town hall and waited for the flood waters to subside. It wasn't until about 4:30am that we were able to get back inside of our place to access the damage.

First and foremost let me say that we are so very blessed that we are safe. That of course is what's most important of all. Everything is a disaster, and so much, is unsalvageable, as expected. At this point we are staying with family until the necessary repairs have been completed so we can move back in, but there is so much of the essentials that we will need to replace (Furniture, clothing, etc...) Unfortunately our renter's insurance does not cover flood or surge and so we are going to need to come out of pocket for all of it.

Our tiny beach community will rebuild, it will just take some time and this experience will certainly never be forgotten. The thoughts & prayers, and donations from all will also never be forgotten. We cannot thank you enough for your consideration and help.