Help Support Caryl After Eaton Canyon Fire

Help Support Caryl After the Eaton Canyon Fire.

It is with a heavy heart that I share the story of my incredible mother, Caryl, who has just lost her home of almost 50 years in the devastating Eaton Canyon Fire. This home wasn’t just a building—it was a reflection of everything my mom had worked for, a place she poured her heart into, and a sanctuary that brought peace and joy to all who knew her. We are reaching out for help, as she now faces the heartbreaking task of moving forward, and we know that with your support, she can start this journey with a little less worry and a lot more hope.

My mom found this home with the help of my grandfather, and from the moment she laid eyes on it, she knew it was the one. It was a perfect fit—a charming house nestled in the foothills of Altadena, surrounded by tall trees and filled with the warmth of the community. It was here that she raised my sister and me, where we shared countless memories, laughter, and love. The house represented everything she had worked so tirelessly for over the years—a place to call her own, a place to relax and enjoy the fruits of her labor.

For almost 50 years, my mom was deeply rooted in Altadena. She loved everything about this place: the daily walks through her neighborhood, the old homes with their stories, and the people who made it special. She had a deep connection to the community, and the sound of her walking through the streets was a comfort to all who knew her. Her home was a haven, a little slice of heaven in the foothills that she cherished every single day.

When my mom retired nearly three years ago, she finally had the time to truly appreciate all she had built. She began to savor the simple pleasures of life—the morning walks, the quiet afternoons spent tending to her garden, and the moments of peace that came with the beauty of her surroundings.

But life, as it often does, has thrown her a curveball. In 2000, my mom faced the unimaginable when she contracted pneumonia, which led to cardiac arrest and a coma. We weren’t sure if she would survive, or if she did, whether she would be the same. But my mom is a fighter. She made it through, and after six months of physical therapy, she returned to work and reclaimed her life with strength and resilience.

Now, at 73, she is facing another challenge—one she never expected: the loss of her home. She fled the fire with nothing more than a small suitcase, some photos, and paperwork. Almost 50 years of life and memories—gone in an instant. But true to her nature, my mom insists she’s fine, simply grateful to be safe with her family. She doesn’t complain, she doesn’t ask for pity. She only worries about finding a new place to live and starting over.

What makes this loss even more heartbreaking is that my mom’s home was not just a house—it was a gathering place for our family, especially her grandchildren. She loved nothing more than having her grandkids over to do homework(which she lovingly calls homework club) dance parties or play in her yard. All the kids loved visiting Gaga’s house, and she created a space where they could all be themselves. Her garden was a labor of love, full of statues, figurines, and decorations that each had a special meaning, representing each grandchild. They would help her tend to the garden, planting flowers and enjoying the beauty of the space together. It was more than just a home; it was a place of love, joy, and shared moments.

We are asking for your support during so much uncertainty about where she will be living. At 73, she deserves to enjoy the next chapter of her life moving forward with so much loss. Your support gives her hope.

Please consider donating any amount you can. We are so grateful for anything you can offer during this difficult time. Thank you for being part of my mom’s journey, and for helping to give her a little peace of mind in the face of such an overwhelming loss.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Glynn and Camille