On Saturday early afternoon, June 5, 2021, the Artan family lived through every homeowner’s worse nightmare, a house fire. Paul and Norma Artan were heading out to the Tractor Supply store on that very hot morning to buy feed for their farm animals. Their youngest, Ricky, was sleeping in his basement bedroom and balked at going with his parents, until Paul insisted. Their eldest, Olivia, was out with our son as they have been dating for several years. Pauly, the oldest son was at work. The family never imagined they would return 40 mins later to find their house engulfed in flames. An electrical fire had started in the basement, right where Ricky had slept just earlier that morning.
Being the selfless animal lovers they are, their first thoughts were of saving their beloved pets trapped inside the burning; smoke filled home. As Norma called for help, Paul busted down his front door and started pulling each pet out one by one. He attempted rescue breathing on the dogs, but it was a painful and futile effort. The animals who they considered precious family members, were all lost. Four dogs, a cat, the adored 31-year-old parrot, and three birds had all perished on that tragic day. Paul was later treated at the hospital with sutures for cuts sustained while breaking down the door.
The devastating fire caused massive damage to the home and the loss of everything inside, from clothing and keepsake remembrances to appliances and electronics. The routines and comforts of the Artan family went up in smoke as well. Just small things, like Ricky’s laptop for remote learning with his high school, have a big impact. The kids have been staying at our home, as Norma and Paul are busy making temporary living arrangements for the family while renovations are in progress. The family will need to sift through the debris for salvageable belongings. Ongoing dealings with the insurance company and multiple contractors will be the focus in the aftermath. Rebuilding the home could take up to a year or more. The impact of a house fire is an uprooting experience that’s harsh and perpetual.
Victims of fires must square up to the challenges of financial burdens and emotional stressors. The hope and intention of this fundraiser is to help Norma, Paul, Olivia, Pauly, and Ricky financially to rebuild some sense of normalcy after these horrific events. All of the money raised will be allocated to replace the things the Artans need right now, while they navigate the immensely challenging days ahead. Every donation will help the Artan family as they rebuild their home. Please share this Go Fund Me page with friends and family far and wide so we can help the Artans in their time of need. Any donation, no matter how big or small, will help and be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for the consideration of giving to this deserving family!
Sandra Frew is organizing this fundraiser.