Brother, Chip, Lost Everything in Hurricane

Hello Family and Friends-

Julie Hittle here writing to you from Texas. My brother, Francis “Chip” Aldridge, and his girlfriend, Suzanne Merlo, lost everything when the storm surge from Hurricane Ian flooded their apartment in Naples, Florida. As their refrigerator floated across their living room in four feet of dirty water, they escaped out a window and climbed to safety on top of their car, taking only their beloved cocker spaniel, Kobie, and one plastic bin of important papers and keepsakes. Everything else, including furniture, clothes and household items, was destroyed by backed up raw sewage and flood waters. They were rescued by a kind stranger paddling down the road in a kayak who dropped them on a covered sidewalk.

They are currently staying in a hotel with no power. They are grateful to have a roof over their heads, but long term they are going to have to start over completely. They both work in the deli of a local grocery store which also flooded and is closed for repairs meaning they face temporary unemployment. They had no insurance for their belongings and their car was destroyed as it was full to the ceiling with muddy sea water. They are devastated and in shock.

To help them get back on their feet, I’m starting this Go Fund Me campaign. They will use the funds to replace lost furniture and clothes, hopefully purchase a used car, and to help them rent a new apartment. Any amount you can give would be greatly appreciated by my brother, his girlfriend and our family. Thank you in advance for your kindness and thoughtful generosity!

The Hittle, Aldridge and Merlo Families