Here we are again. Writing this out is hard—for a lot of reasons. This isn’t really about me, but I want to acknowledge that putting words to this moment takes something out of me.
First, I want to thank the fire departments from Cade, Youngsville, Carencro, Lafayette, and Broussard. I believe there were at least 10 firetrucks surrounding my parents’ home. The response was overwhelming, and we’re so grateful.
By God’s grace, my brother and father made it out safely—and before visible flames appeared. Praise God for that.
This is the second major tragedy to touch this home. The first was the passing of my mother, just over four years ago—my dad’s bride of 40 years. And now, the home they built together and worked so hard for… is gone.
We’re grateful for the lives spared, but as you can imagine, the emotional side of this is… heavy. This was our childhood home. And while we’re still facing a lot of unknowns, there are a few things we do know:
What We Know:
God is good. And not just in a saying-we-use-when-we-don’t-know-what-else-to-say kind of way. I mean it—He’s been faithful, protective, and kind.
The fire started when lightning struck the chimney stack, and it spread through the roof.
The home is nearly a total loss—but our hope and spirit aren’t.
That house was soaked in love and steeped in prayer. Years and years of it.
My brother and dad are now safe and staying with me.
We were able to recover some of my mom’s original paintings (she was an artist), some jewelry (she had style), and most miraculously—my parents’ wedding album—untouched, unscathed.
My parents lived in that house for 41 years. My mom, for 37 of those, until she passed—right there, in the home she loved.
What We Don’t Yet Know:
How much insurance will cover. I haven’t been able to speak with a real person yet (likely Monday), but right now it’s looking like there may be a significant gap in coverage.
What’s actually salvageable. We’ll be going through things piece by piece over the coming weeks.
How You Can Help:
So many of you have asked how to help—and that alone has been humbling and deeply moving.
Here’s where we need the most support:
1. Prayer.
This is number one. Prayer moves mountains. Pray for peace, provision, clarity, and strength.
2. Financial Support.
We are facing a massive rebuild cost. I don’t yet know the full extent, but I’ll share more details as we learn them. For now, any monetary gifts are deeply appreciated.
3. Resources + Guidance.
This is uncharted territory for us. If you’ve walked through something like this or have knowledge of helpful steps, checklists, or grants—please share.
4. Clothing Donations.
Some have offered to provide clothing for my dad and brother, who were living in the home. Here are their sizes:
Shirts: Large–X-Large
Pants: 36
Shoes: 12–13
5. Volunteers to Run Point:
On donations (organizing incoming support)
On a meal train (we’ve had so many generous food offers, but we’re limited on capacity to coordinate it ourselves)
From the bottom of my heart, thank you—for the prayers, the love, the help, and the respect. This has been a spectacle for some, but for us, it’s real life. Updates to come.
—Olivia
