Stephen and Aracely Ross recover from fire loss in Altadena

Stephen and Aracely Ross of Concha Street in Altadena accepting help from friends and family while we recover from the Eaton Fire.

On Tuesday, January 07, 2025, after almost seven years in idyllic Altadena, we were evacuated from our home on Concha Street while still in our pyjamas. Our structure did not survive the storm and neither did the structures of most of our neighbors. We have a long road ahead. The challenges that we face are enhanced because Stephen now has a medical condition that makes adapting to changes especially difficult. Unfortunately, I have significant health challenges of my own. I am committed to caring for my husband to the best of my ability every day. We are far from most of our friends and family and this makes things harder. I'm married to a really extraordinary man and the past seven years in Altadena have been the happiest of my life. I am committed to doing my best with so much love, one day at a time. I know that many of you want to help us and we are grateful for your solidarity and friendship. We ask that you please share our story and for your prayers.

Update: Unlike many of our neighbors, we have secured longer term housing. Stephen needs stability and a routine to maintain his health. This transition has been tough on him. Fortunately, we are also in daily contact with all of our neighbors on Concha Street for updates and solidarity. We are overwhelmed by everyone's generosity and feel very humbled. Thank you for your support.

Update:

It is almost three weeks since the Eaton Fire changed Altadena forever. News sources report that this is going to be one of the costliest natural disasters in American history. We continue to experience consistent acts of solidarity and kindness from total strangers. Our friends and family have been unconditional. The best of humanity has shone its face on us. There have also been people who have attempted to take advantage. We have to remain vigilant of them. Stephen struggled most in the first ten days of our displacement. He was very anxious and couldn't identify the feeling. He needed a lot of physical contact to feel reassured and safe. I was able to rescue some childhood photos of his, some with Mommy and one with brother Ira. He seems very happy and comforted by one particular picture. He's started to sing again, like he usually does when he is happy. We've been able to replace some medical equipment and are waiting for his hospital bed and new bedding to be delivered. Our severe breathing problems are slowly improving thanks to medication, breathing treatments, an air purifier and lots of rest. Our community is standing together and the amount of aid and advice available is truly overwhelming. Furthermore, there are endless administrative issues that require attention and these are formidable as well. So because of our difficulties breathing, I've stepped back as much as possible and am dealing with my commission one task at a time. Proceeding one day at a time, as I have learned from people much wiser than I. Please continue to pray for your two favorite unrelenting atheists. It's working.