On Oct. 26 we reported on a fire that destroyed a Randall home. Below is a message from the Deters family thanking the community for all of the help they have received in the aftermath of the fire:
Dear Friends: No words can express our gratitude for all of the kindness you have shown our family in our time of need. Family, friends, neighbors, teachers, counselors, firemen, -and lots of people we don’t even know, have all put their lives on hold to help ours. The amount of generosity in the form of clothes, toys, furniture, bedding, gift cards, money, food, and just plain emotional support- has been awe inspiring. We have lost a lot, things we cannot replace, but in this tragedy, we have learned that we are not alone, and have proof that the world is indeed a good place. I can’t name everyone because so many people have donated things to us, but I’d like to give a special thanks to: All the firemen and safety workers- they were all so kind on that horrific day. My family- especially Todd, Cyndi, Mom & Don -for being there that night, Mer for all her continued support- and much needed supplies- and Jay for the box of new winter apparel for me and the kids. Matt, Sarah & Paul- whose house we were renting, and also lost so much on that day. They were so kind to let us rent in the first place and continue their kindness in trying to help us now. We are so sad for their loss as well. All my friends- especially Kory & Christina, Ali, Wendy & Larry, & Melissa, Patty- all were so incredibly kind and generous, we are indebted to you always. My neighbors in Deerpath Subdivision- I grew up in this neighborhood, and it’s still the greatest place to live- a special thanks to Ed Bluth who saved my dogs, and took up a monetary collection for my family throughout the neighborhood. Everyone was so generous, and has continued to be. We are lucky to live amongst you still. Twin Lakes Country Club, Care Animal Hospital, Life Source Blood Services, Larry Marchel’s co workers, Wilmot-Trevor Grade School (who got Abby an American Girl doll, and Christian a new “baby†which was a small stuffed bunny) and all the other business I’ve failed to mention. This community has shown us extreme support- we just can’t express how grateful we are. We will continue on in Deerpath for now, my sister, Jennifer, lives in our childhood home with her husband, 2 kids and 4 dogs. We grew up with 6 kids in this house, and now with 5 kids, 3 adults, and 6 dogs- it feels like home. Although this tragedy is devastating, and I do feel a tremendous loss- I know I am so fortunate to have all this love around me and my family. Thank you for your well wishes and all you’ve done to help us re build our lives.
–Diana, Maddy, Abby, and Christian Deters
There also is a fundraiser going on for the Deters family to help them restart their lives and perhaps have a home of their own. More info here.
