My wife and I are the ones on Marlin who experienced the house fire earlier this week. We've never experienced the outpouring of generosity and support from across our beloved community and beyond, and we felt it fitting to provide an update today.
Thanks to our very generous next-door neighbors, we have a temporary place to stay close with our remaining two dogs. Everything has happened so fast, but we're getting some rest here and there. The police and fire departments were incredible--they were here so fast and worked like a machine to do what they could to extinguish the fire and protect neighboring homes and families. The morning of the fire some friends on Bonita took us to the ER to have us checked, treat our smoke inhalation and take care of some minor injuries, and they stayed with us through the entire visit. Our wonderful neighbors across the street took care of our surviving dogs while we were at the ER and provided a change of clothes. A burly gang of guys tried to save our boat by pulling it down the street with their bare hands. We are so grateful for our next-door neighbors who are continually checking on us and letting our dog Granger have some much needed play time with his best friend (their dog Kona). Faith community Church held a prayer meeting for us, and gave us a chance to get away from the damage and meet more wonderful neighbors. Perhaps the most overwhelming and humbling experience is the amount of generosity we've received from so many people who until now didn't even know us. The coordination of support from Ashley Searcy, Kathy Chrappa, May Carroll Lieblong, Ernie's Army, the Weekend Warriors and all the personal and anonymous donations and people reaching out (from Bayou Vista, Galveston, Tiki Island, Dickinson and more) have been the needed reminders that we're not facing this challenge alone. Our apologies in advance because I'm almost certain we are leaving some out, but we're still a little overwhelmed by the whole event.
We are beyond grateful for and humbled by everything everyone has done for us, and we definitely plan to rebuild our life in Bayou Vista. While we certainly experienced a great loss, it's also been a reminder of how thankful we are to be surrounded by such a wonderful community. We look forward to our future here in Bayou Vista and paying it forward.
There isn't many fires here but they are ugly and devastating. Years ago the house across the street looked like yours, now today you can see the results of recovery and rebuild.
This is not a sales pitch, but I do want to offer you all the answers to many questions you will have.
Ask I will give you more than one person that has faced the same problems you are now dealing with yes on your street.
No obligation, I just have 40 years of experience, am local office here in the strip center; I know how to give you information to stop a lot of the costly mistakes and problems. This is my free offer to you, as I have done many times in the past with others.
Prayers that its smooth sailing as you rebuild your life. Our hopes that the memory of community love outweighs the horror of that night. If there is anything you need going forward, please ask and we will do what we can.
