From the Ashes: Aid for Dave Pineda’s Family

My wonderful brother-in-law, Dave, his amazing partner Melissa, and my sweet 5-year-old nephew lost everything they have ever owned in a devastating fire in the early morning of June 7th, 2024. Barely escaping the flames in nothing more than their pajamas, and shoeless, the house was engulfed in flames within a few minutes of the smoke alarms waking them. After seeing the flames, Dave rushed to collect his family and got them to safety. He ran back inside their burning home to try and locate any of their cats, able to save some, but not all. We received the call at 2AM, completely gutted by their loss, but so incredibly grateful that they are physically OK.

This is a strong, resilient family and there isn't anything Dave and Melissa wouldn't do for those they love and call 'friend'. Strength is a disposition they both share, but it doesn't mean that opening themselves to the help of others is easy, so that's where I come in. I'm the sister-in-law who loves them and whose heart aches knowing what they are going through. What it is going to take for them to rebuild is unfathomable. The trauma my little nephew will have to process is hard to accept, but I know that, with the help of loving friends and a community of people to circle the wagons, they will be even stronger as they work to heal through their tragic loss.

So, this is where I ask, with humble sincerity and the love of this family who accepted myself and baby as one of their own without question (OK, maybe a few questions, but I digress) and that you might consider helping them with a few dollar bucks (in the words of the Healer family who my nephew loves! If you know.. you know) so that they can begin with gathering clothing, basic necessities, etc.

Every penny counts and no donation is too small. A kind word is everything. Just reading this is meaningful to the Pineda's. So, thank you for taking the time. Most of all, I just want to see them rise from the ashes (literally).

If you can share this far and wide, we would greatly appreciate that... and know that we are thankful for your time and consideration.