Support the Edelman Family After Eaton Fire

For transparency: I'm Dylan, a friend of Helen's. Helen asked for my assistance setting up this GoFundMe page while her and her family navigate their devastating loss. Helen has provided me with some details about her family to share with you:

On January 7, the Edelman family lost their home of nearly 30 years to the Eaton Fire -- the home that Rebecca and Steve raised their daughter Helen in.

(Photo taken by LAFD of their home on Alta Crest Drive after the fire)

Rebecca and Steve had both retired only a few years ago after long, meaningful careers -- Rebecca as a public school teacher and Steve as a symphony bass player. Altadena was their forever home. It was their world. Steve biked around Altadena every day and knew every nook and cranny. Their life truly revolved around their neighbors and community, and they loved the lively home they had made for themselves.

The Edelmans lost not only their home, but the decades of memories collected throughout the years. Countless crazy knick knacks from around the world. Pottery and quilts handmade by Rebecca. Venetian paper mache masks the family made together. Helen's grandfather's paintings. Family photos. The pieces of a home that make up a family.

The family, voracious readers all, also lost their enormous, ever-growing personal library -- one built up with a labor of love. This library is proof beyond all doubt that you can work full-time, raise a family, endure a two-hour commute, go to bed by 9 PM every night, and still have time to read at least one novel a week. Rebecca did it for years.

Helen is devastated to have lost her childhood home and to watch the city that raised her endure so much pain. Anyone who has met Helen knows how intelligent, inquisitive, and full of life she is. I now see that that is a direct reflection of the wonderfully unique family and community that brought her up.

Steve is now 75 years old, and more than anything the family wants to stay in this area with their support network and friends. They need our help to do that. The donations you make will go directly toward their immediate recovery, addressing temporary needs that cannot be met by other sources. Any amount will help.

Thank you so much for your consideration.