I’m writing this at 9:35pm CST on Wednesday night. Day 3.
I had to check the calendar to tell you what day it was.
Time stands still here. And at the same time, is flying by - with little to no progress to mark it with.
I’m drained. Emotionally and physically.
I’m defeated. I came here to help. To fix. To prop up and support.
And the rubble is unmoved. The piles just as high and unorganized as they were Sunday night. The donations are coming in - clothes, toothpaste, toilet paper. But we have no place to put them. The back of a van is stuffed with blankets and hand me downs as we try to ignore that we don’t pick up pots and pans because… well… why?
I can’t find them a place to live. Every call I make is a dead end.
I know you want to help. Oh, how I know.
I just have no idea how. Not yet. Will you still want to help in a week? If we’ve found a home to fill? Will you still be interested in the stories and the pictures when my brain is sorted out enough to tell them?
I’m lost. I’m so terribly fucking lost.
And tired. Bone. Tired.
Posted in On A Serious Note Tagged: Parkersburg, tornado
You’re a fixer, babe. And this is one thing that you can’t fix, even as amazing as you are.
I’m so sorry, Britt. I am thinking of you and your family.
I don’t even know what to say, so I have been saying nothing.
Don’t let this overwhelm you.
I’m sorry. Stay strong. To do that, you need to first rest.
When I saw the devestation of your poor little town I was just astounded. I can’t even imagine how difficult it is to sift through the rubble. The TV showed some footage with a woman looking for her wedding dress and I broke up. It was just so horrible.
I would like to help your family. I’ll be around next week. I promise.
I’m so sorry.
I am so sorry that you are in despair. I am truly amazed that the RedCross or the Salvation Army do not have lodging for the displaced people. My prayers are with you and your family and don’t give up. Let God work a miracle here.
Being lost is understandable. Please don’t be defeated. You can’t move all the piles. Not in a day. Not in a week. Not in a month.
People will still care in a week. They will still be available to help.
It just takes so long to make any progress at all when these things happen. All you can do is just keep moving forward.
We are here to help, no matter when. You just let us know what you need and we will help.
There is no deadline on my offer to help. At the very least, we have 3.5 acres that are tent-friendly, but it’s central Texas and damn hot.
Do you have a paypal fund or something we could pimp out?
Britt, leaders are the ones that keep pressing forward, even when they’re bone tired. Even when they feel like they have nothing left to give.
And hun, you ARE a leader. I can only imagine the devastation you are dealing with right now on every level imaginable. But I can promise you that just the fact that you are THERE is a promise of hope for everyone who has lost so much. They know that, in spite of losing their homes and possessions - they haven’t lost touch with human kindness and compassion.
Your job right now is not to fix an entire town and set everything to rights. Your job right NOW, is to lean on God. Turn it over to Him because this is bigger than any of us. Your job is to smile even though your soul is weeping. Your job now is to take it ONE moment, ONE step, ONE day at a time.
Do what you can and leave the rest up to God.
And my answer to the questions you posed? ABSOLUTELY yes. Both my family and myself, will be here whenever you all have it somewhat sorted and people from the “outside” can start helping. I hope you know that I am here as a friend if you need to talk, if you need someone to listen, or a friendly voice, or an email of support… whatever. It’s not much, but I’ll give all I have; however you need it. Just let me know.
You’ve got my email address and my cell number. I usually have it shut off during the day while I’m at work, but I can always call you back when I get off in the evening.
Hang in there sweetheart. I’m proud of you!
Yes, still interested.
You can’t save the world, but what you are doing is a wonderful gift to those you’re helping.
Something will present itself, a solution will “magically” be made available.
Have faith.
(But keep making phone calls and let us know if we can do anything. AND ADAM CAN YOU SEND THEM WARMER CLOTHES FROM THEIR HOUSE? Or will they not be there long enough?)
Of course we will be here, ready to help when it can be most effective. I have been through a natural disaster (flood) and know all too well how your issue is at the front of everyone’s mind RIGHT THEN and then how quickly it fades.
I won’t fade on Parkersburg. I will be here when you need me, in whatever way I can be.
Please try to stay hydrated and attempt sleep. I would hate for you to exhaust yourself into illness. That won’t help! (I know this because that is what I do…go and go and go and get ill.)
Know that you are doing an amazing job, even though you can’t really see a difference. It matters. It really does. I am so thankful that you drove up to help.
I’ll keep praying about the housing issue. Praying specific, too!
Wow, this really is important…I used capital letters and everything for you.
I canceled my yard sale… I have TONS of adult clothes… both womens and mens… need to have an address… and if you make a list of other stuff you need, I just moved in with mom & dad so I have my entire house in storage… I’ll be happy to send stuff your way!
Of course we’ll still want to help. Let us know what you need and where to send it.
You’re a champ, Britt. Stay strong.
this is beyond heartbreaking…but, you’ve made an impact on all of us, and i have no doubt that you’re making one there, even if it isn’t immediately obvious.
material things can be replaced, eventually… but i’m sure having you there makes a world of difference to your family and friends.
I am so sorry.
It’s hard when you’re knee deep in garbage that used to be your stuff. I’ve been there… Northridge was incredibly tough for me. So many things gone in seconds. After awhile you get numb looking at it all. You just have do the best you can in the moment and eventually things start to come together and you start to feel real again. In the midst of it all though, all you can do is feel surreal and hurt until the numb takes over again. Cliched but true… it will just take some time.
It must be incredibly overwhelming. How awful you can’t find everyone a place to live. I am deeply sorry and praying for you all.
I have stuff put aside for you. Just have to get it to your family when you say when and where.
Oh God, I’m so sorry. Stay strong - be brave!
I’ve been through the aftermath of a smaller tornado that hit our town. You got used to the “new normal” and became numb to the devastation. Not that numb is better than devastated. Crap, I’m not helping.
Tell me how to help whenever things are sorted and I’ll help. Even if it’s just $20 in an envelope.
Yes, I believe we will be here in a week, a month, or 6 months, willing to help in anyway possible!
Love ya!
Please remember to take care of yourself. I’m sure that when you appeared it was like a rainbow of hope for many people.
When I went through the Hurricanes in 2004 and lost my home in Merritt Island, it was tragic. It seemed like nobody cared or wanted to help. But, we did find help, and though the financial devastation still affects us, my family is still together and we still have our love for one another.
The fact that you dropped everything to rush back there to help family and friends must mean a lot to the victims of this event. Just remember to take care of yourself too, it maybe hard for you to eat and sleep, but you won’t do anyone any good if you don’t.
Personally, I think you rock!
Awww Hon, it sucks to feel so helpless and lost, I know. No worries about people wanting to help at a later stage. Of course they will!!!
I’ve just caught up on all this news: I wanted to let you know I’m so heartsick over what you’re all going through right now. My prayers are with you all.
Sugar I wish I could give you a real hug. Somethings just can’t be fixed right away. Just keep on—we’ll be here when you need us.
We will still be here a week, a month from now. Our town has been through floods, we know how the help is there day 1, 2, and starts to dwindle by day 7.
Just let us know.
I’m just waiting on you to say the word. I’ll be here to help whenever you need it.
Hugs to you and your family.
I think everyone has already said what I am thinking…as for the housing situation, I am guessing that maybe, just maybe, it might be time for Jared’s family to move to another town? I know the possibility sucks, but you sound like there are no other alternatives…
We’ll all be here when you need us…for whatever you need, one of us can help you get it…that’s what friends do *hugs and lullabyes for you to sleep with*
That you are there helping is probably one of the most powerful tools you have to offer.
Stay strong and keep your head up.
Hallie
http://wonderfulworldofweiners.blogspot.com/
I’m with Av… you can’t blame yourself for this. Even the Red Cross can’t find places for people to live after disaster situations.
Just the fact that you dropped everything and drove 1000+ miles from Florida to Iowa overnight shows your love of and commitment to your family. They know it, we know it, the world knows it. You can’t do everything. Just be there for them and do the best you can. Nobody expects miracles, just love.
I love you
Anything I am able and all that. You know.
I’m here. We’re here. Whenever you need us.
It is definitely a fully numbing experience to see the destruction up close… especially when it is so personal.
The first thing is to secure a safe and as stable as possible living environment for those affected.
The second thing is to determine what they need and communicate that (which is something I tend to think you will be able to excel at) so they get what they need.
The third thing is to stop, take a deep breathe, and then let out what your bottling up inside.
The piles of rubble will move when people are ready to move them. It just may take some longer than others.
Of course… we’ll be here and ready to help the best way we can when you let us know.
It’s not like we have lives or anything.
Hugs. Just lots and lots of hugs from Chicago.
Wow,
Of course I just started reading; but I will help in ANY way that I can. Just need to know who, what,when,where, OK?
Keep your head up, YOU AND YOUR FAMILY WILL GET THRU THIS!!!! So many have your back, take comfort in that.
God Bless you and yours,
Misi
Oh hon,
I am so sad about this for you.
I hate when bad things happen to good people, especially when it is totallly out of their control. I guess it’s why I became a firefighter, to help.
If there is anything I can do, even if just to listen, let me know!
I haven’t taken any action yet because I’ve been reading the comments and didn’t know what would actually do any good. Is there any chance you can setup a PayPal donation button thingy on your site so we can transfer funds quickly? And, yes, I still plan to be in a supporting mood next week. But by July you’re on your own. :p
No matter what, I will want to hear your stories, hold your hand, and be here to help you no matter how much time passes by. That’s what real friends do…
If I had the money and the time to take off of work, I’d come there and help in any way I could. I may not have much space house wise, but I do have a lot of space heart wise, and am willing to give whatever is needed.
I hope that your brain and heart find a way to some peace…even just a little tiny bit of it.
I attached an email that the Priest from my parents’ parish sent out (they live in New Hartford but the parish serves 4 towns). It lists an address and supplies requested.
Dear Parishioners,
Updated list of those completely devastated:
Virgil and Diane Goodrich
Tom and Maureen Reinert
Don and Mary Ann Bergman
Al and Patty Hoff
Matt and Tara Miller
Larry and Marty Luhring
Jo Thrasher
Dan and Beth Bruns
Gary and Mary Wolfe
Mike and June Bahnsen
Mike and Nancy Brannon
Casey and Heidi Christensen
Greg and Nancy Chapman - New Hartford
Some of the needs as of now are:
Plasticware preferably pre-wrapped, as well as paper plates and napkins. About 5000 meals are served per day at the Vets Building. These donations should be taken directly there - west side of town, turn left after the bend in the road of hwy 57. Plastic Tote containers also welcome there.
Linens such as towels, sheets, pillows as well as baby items can be taken to Hope Reformed Church in Parkersburg at 611 Fourth St (Parkersburg, IA 50665) or Aplington Middle School. Seems like quite a bit of clothing has already come through.
Volunteer help is now welcome.
You may need to say that you are designated volunteers to get through in the next couple of days and then check in at the Methodist church on edge of town - Florence St - as you come in, on right - large modern brick building - still standing.
Volunteers must bring and wear leather gloves and boots.
Questions about volunteering can be routed to Butler County EMS - 319 267-9111 or Methodist Church Parkersburg 319 346-1076.
Financial donations may be made through our parish (at Masses this weekend) or to Catholic Charities, Archdiocese of Dubuque. These gifts will go directly to the needy.
There will be the usual Mass at 10 am in Parkersburg this Sunday. Parishioners from other towns should try and go to the Saturday night Mass in Grundy Center or to the Sunday Mass in Reinbeck.
Confirmation candidates & families will come to their special Mass at Grundy Center at 10 am Sunday.
Thank you for your prayers and concern.
Fr. Dennis Quint
204 G Ave
Grundy Center, IA 50638
319 824-3572
Sweetness, it’s not all on you. Or it shouldn’t be. This is overwhelming, I know. I’ve seen it firsthand.
How do you rebuild a life from scratch? You have to trust in God, now more than ever. Things will work out. There are a lot of people out there who are willing to help given the chance.
And of course we’ll be here when you all need us. We’re just waiting for the call. Tell us what you need and where you need it and we’ll do our best.
Please take a breath and step off for a bit. You’re no good to anyone burnt out and exhausted.
This is the hardest part after something so terrible. The start of getting things “back to normal”. It is just wonderful you are there to support your loved ones and do whatever you can. Even if it doesn’t seem like much, it is.
Let me know what I can do from here.
I am sure you being there is a big help. Unfortunatley, it isn’t something that can be “fixed”. This is a form of loss. All you can do is move forward, and with each day, things will get better. It doesn’t seem like it right now, but it will.
Of course we’ll be here.
Just rememeber to take care of yourself, you’re no good to anyone if you get sick and exhausted.
My thoughts are with you.
We’ll be here in a week, a month, however long it takes to try and piece your town back together.
Are there any immediate needs to be filled, that won’t take up space you don’t have (baby formula, diapers, etc, grown up food, water, etc?) If so, let us know. Otherwise, we’ll be ready when you say go.
xoxo
I’m delurking to let you know I’ve been praying for you and your family. I’ve only been reading for a few months but I love your writing, so I’ll be sticking around for a while and when you know what is needed, I will be happy to donate.
I will care and help even months later. The whole thing just sucks, but it will get better Hard to see past the piles of stuff right now, I’m sure. I can’t imagine. But I’ll be here, and it looks like a lot of other people will, too!
Best of luck!
I’m sure that your presence alone has helped in ways you never could have imagined. Hang in there.
Of course we’ll be here to help next week or next month even…just let us know where to send things, and it’ll be there.
Love and hugs and prayers…
xo
thinking of you. let us know when there’s something more we can do.
I will still be here in a week, or two, or however long it takes for you to decide how we can help.
You and your family continues to be in my thoughts and prayers.
In a week, we’ll still be here to listen and to help. Hang in there.
And the damn weather today isn’t helping either.
I don’t want to discourage people from helping, but my mom was a volunteer during Katrina. There where WAREHOUSES full of used clothing that had been donated. It was just too much. There are so many organizations pulling together here in Iowa right now to help, I can’t imagine if people all over the country starting shipping items to this small town. I know you want to help, but they also don’t need to deal with, nor have time to deal with, overwhelming amounts of “stuff”.
Being a single mom of two, I don’t have much……but I just donated what I could to the Red Cross. Let me know if there is anything else that I can help with, and if I can I will.
Im thinking of you!
Sigh…overwhelming how helpless everyone must feel. It’s a lot of pressure to be the family cheerleader and to take charge, it takes a really special person to fill that role. Hang in there Britt, you are amazing.
My thoughts are with you and yours. I think you’ll find people willing to help for however long it takes.
I’m thinking good thoughts for you.
Totally still interested. It’s going to take a long time to fix your town, far longer than you can afford to stay, I’m afraid. I know it’s frustrating, but as you said before, there are hundreds of people looking for housing now. That’s a shitload of folks without a home.
Ugh, I wish I could snap my fingers and make something happen.
Take care of yourself, Britt. Patience and prayer will help with the feeling of frustration and heartache of what you are experiencing.
As you are finding out, not much happens in the first days after something like the tornado they had there. Even after Katrina down here, the first days afterwards were involved with just getting water, meals, clothes of some kind, and shelter to people.
When you are ready, I can help you with your own funds/materials goods-raising program, using a new 501(c)(3) charitable organization I just set up after Katrina for needs and emergencies like this. It provides contributors a way to help in many ways, including financially, and have it be tax-deductible at the same time. As one of the members of this 501(c)(3), YOU will be able to decide how and where the funds are distributed. That way, you know it gets to exactly where you want it to go.
About gathering used clothing, Green3 is right on in her concern and assessment about all the clothing that may be sent to the area, with little or no storage and structured distribution setups available yet to really be a help, rather than a hinderance. These take time to set up.
One critically important thing you can do to help while you are up there, is to cultivate and secure names of people and organizations that can be your arms and messengers to help distribute the funds and materials things that you (and we) ultimately will end up having go in there through your (our) combined efforts.
Think about it. There are at least 60 of your friends on this page who are ready to send funds and things where you say to send them. You need people there to be on the receiving end of what you end up sending, to see that it all gets to the people you want to help. That, and a bona fide charitable organization and experienced and willing people to help make it happen.
As for myself (and I’m sure the others witnessing on this page), we are all ready to assist, in whatever way(s) will be helpful to you and those you love and care about in Parkersburg.
When you get back, holler, so we can talk about what you want to happen. Take care, Dear Lady!
Yes.
We’ll all be here.
And i think we all wish we could be THERE.
Whenever you need us, whenever you’re ready.
Don’t try to be everything to everyone, Britt…save some for yourself.
Hi, I came across your site as I’ve been completely drawn in by this disaster. I’m from Iowa originally, currently live in Kansas City. Grew up in NE Iowa. I posted my thoughts a couple days ago for the people of Parkersburg and all others affected. Be safe and thanks for doing the Lord’s work.
http://aintnofreelunches.blogspot.com
I am soooo far behind on blog reading and know I am wayyy late, but wanted to send hugs and thoughts your way. We’re all thinking of you.