“The Angels”, (translation from Spanish to English for Los Angeles), walk among those broken by the devastating fires that have ravaged their homes, businesses, schools, churches, and the unbearable loss of loved ones and pets. What has struck me through all the heartache is the sense of community and caring for neighbours. The tireless, heroic efforts of the firefighters is beyond admirable along with the neighbouring states, the Canadian water bombers (super scoopers), and Mexican and South African firefighters offering whatever resources they can to help extinguish the flames.
Many of us know Los Angeles. We’ve taken our children to Disneyland, driven down the Pacific Coast Highway, marvelled at Rodeo Drive before we had access to designer brands in our home towns, and best of all, walked the miles of glorious beaches. Yes, the traffic and freeways are a nightmare but you have to agree, it’s special…it’s tinsel town.
I look around my home, out my windows to the front and back, see my garden, my neighbours majestic, mature trees, their homes that I know they love because they are lovingly cared for. I know my neighbours and losing any of them in a natural disaster is unthinkable. I’m so grateful for what I see.
I have some history with fire too. My store, C C on Whyte, was originally located on a trendy shopping street. A fire broke out in a restaurant a few doors down and quickly spread to adjacent businesses. Although my store was spared the fire, the water damage was too significant to save the building. We had inventory stored in the basement and I’ll never forget the imagine of Christmas ornaments floating at the top of the staircase that morning after. The smell of charred wood, smoke and water never leaves you.
Along with the smoke and ash, the sorrow that hangs over Los Angeles is unimaginable. I hope ALL those impacted have access to the much needed funds and emotional support in the immediate short term and somehow find the strength to believe in better days ahead. You are in all our thoughts… xox Judy❤️