About Richard and Barbara (when we first received their story)

Richard 78, a cancer survivor, has lung disease and is on oxygen, Barbara 72

Richard and Barbara are currently living in a FEMA trailer on their property. Richard’s wish is that he does not have to die in a FEMA trailer, and to have the peace of mind knowing his wife has a home to live in. Here are excerpts from their story.

My Mom and Dad have lived in their home for 53 years. My Dad built it from scratch. He would tell us how he would pick up wood from the junk yard, side of the road, and use it. He would straighten out crooked nails. ... All I saw were pretty walls. When the house took in ten feet of water, I saw his soul. It broke my heart to see how poor we really were.... All he wants is to be back in his home. The Sunday before the storm we decided to leave at the last minute. Two people at the corner drown in their house. My Mom and Dad had State Farm Insurance but like everyone else, no Flood coverage because they were in a No Flood Zone... We pray that God will provide the resources and financial help they will need.

Loretta (daughter)

6/24/06 - update from Loretta-

'He (Richard) sits outside by a shed that we put up for our wash room and he made it to look like his home. We used old siding and shutters from their house. He sits out there right by the front door just as if it was his house. He looks around an empty lot where his home of 53 years stood and stares. I asked him yesterday, 'What are you doing Dad?' He replied by saying 'I am building my home in my mind.' "