Devastated by March 14th Tornado—Please Help Us Rebuild

On March 14, 2025, just one day after my daughter’s 15th birthday, our lives were turned upside down. A powerful tornado tore through Bridgeton, completely destroying our home and everything we owned.

That evening, my husband, 2 young daughters, and I were out celebrating 314 Day with family in Wentzville, looking forward to celebrating my daughter’s birthday that weekend. We started receiving text alerts about power outages in our area and family members contacting us about the news reporting damages specifically on our street, Scotch Dr. Fearing for our two cats and bearded dragon, we rushed home to check on them and our home.

When we arrived around 11:30 pm, we were met with emergency crews blocking the entrance to our neighborhood due to the extensive storm damage. They gave us an alternate route to access our street—when we arrived, we were met with absolute devastation. Our home was completely destroyed. Everything we had—all of our belongings, furniture, clothing, shoes, jewelry, and irreplaceable sentimental items—gone in an instant.

Our hearts sank as we frantically searched through the rubble in the darkness for our beloved pets. Through the kindness of our neighbors, we were miraculously able to find them alive and unharmed inside the house. They had taken refuge under our sectional couch, which was near their “cat condo,” bedding, and comfort toys. The portion of the couch they hid under somehow remained in place while the other portion had been thrown across the room. Their condo and all other items—destroyed.

We weren’t the only ones affected. My cousin and her family were home in Florissant when the tornado struck. Their house suffered significant damage, but thankfully, they survived unharmed.

We are incredibly grateful that we were not home to endure what would have been a very frightening, traumatic experience. The love, prayers, and support we’ve received from family, friends, and even strangers over the past few days have meant the world to us. This has been an overwhelming and heartbreaking time for us. We are now faced with the daunting reality of starting over and are humbly asking for help.

Any donation—whether monetary or essential items—will make a huge difference in helping us get back on our feet. If you’re able to assist my cousin’s family, who are also in need of support in their own recovery process, please inquire on how you can help!

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and prayers as we navigate this devastating time. We appreciate you more than words can express.