Tree Damage Recovery for the Shanahans & McHales

Just over two months ago, two days before Christmas, a 7800 pound bull pine fell onto our house. The branches penetrated the kitchen, the den, and the back bedroom, and the weight of the tree crushed the back half of the foundation and broke all of the roof beams, leaving us without a home.

We were very lucky. Even though the dog and I were home, we were in the only two rooms in the house that were not hit. The North Hampton Police and Fire Departments were amazing, they took excellent care of us and our dog, helped us collect our belongings, and arranged for the house to be boarded up and the tree removed. Our neighbors were also incredible, coming out in force and offering their support. We had a wonderful holiday with family, and then we moved the few things we had packed into a hotel, where we have been since December 26th.

We are also very lucky that we were insured, and we know that someday our house will be rebuilt and we will be able to go back home, but because so many homes and families were impacted by the storms, floods, and freezing temperatures, we have a long wait ahead of us.

As of today, our insurance adjuster has not completed our estimate, and so no progress has been made and we have not been reimbursed for any of our out of pocket expenses.

We have had the tree company out to evaluate the rest of the property and they have identified a number of trees that need to be removed as soon as possible, including 3 giant pines that are even larger than the tree that fell.

Many of you have asked if there is anything you could do to help, and your offers of food and company and words of encouragement have been so appreciated. As difficult as it is for me to ask, we have reached the point where we could use some support. We have started this GoFundMe to cover the cost of the tree removal and additional uncovered expenses.

If you feel led to contribute, any amount is greatly appreciated, and if you are able to share this fundraiser that would be amazing.

We are so fortunate to be a part of such a wonderfully generous and supportive community. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. ❤️