Support Tish and Max's Recovery from Storm Helene

We are so incredibly grateful to share that everyone is safe. On Saturday, September 28th, Tish & Max Reed were able to evacuate their home in Clyde, NC to a shelter on higher ground as storm Helene ravaged Western North Carolina. This photo was the last picture they took before the house became completely out of reach due to rising waters.

When they were able to return, they discovered two more feet of water had entered their home after that picture was taken. The water mark in the garage is near nine feet. Having not been able to afford flood insurance, the house and belongings are a total loss. Their home had been in the family for three generations. It will be greatly missed by many.

Chad and I watched all of this from so far away. It was difficult not being able to get in touch with our sister (Tish), brother-in-law (Max) or parents. A few words over a spotty connection in the coming days was enough to reassure us everyone was safe. I can't tell you how much it meant to hear those few words. We have been beside ourselves with concern and the wish to be able to do more for those we love and the people of Western North Carolina. Everyone is truly suffering. Since we have power, and wifi, this seemed the most direct way to help; to share these stories and help others understand the catastrophic level of destruction.

We are so lucky to have amazing friends and a loving family. Tish and Max have a temporary place to stay. Their immediate needs are being addressed. We are so fortunate at this time of incredible loss. If you would like to help Tish and Max rebuild their lives, please give to charities helping Western North Carolina or give directly here. All funds will be used to help Tish and Max put their life back together, provide the ability to replace basic essentials (clothing, toiletries, food, water, and other necessities), fund housing and begin to look for what is next.

Thank you for all the love, support, phone calls, messages, and outreach to Chad, myself (Kari) and our family. We cannot express how much this has meant. Thank you for lifting our spirits with your kindness. We will continue to update this post as the days and weeks unfold. It will be a long road. Sending love, strength, and hope to all those in need.

Tish and Max's truck was NOT where they had left it parked.

This is the deck of a neighbor up the street. Tish & Max's deck is a few houses down river.

Image from the back (river side) of the house.

Water line in the garage is nearly nine feet.

A thick layer of mud has covered the inside of the house.