Rick & Isabel: Wildfire Reality

Glenn and I had the privilege of meeting Rick and Isabel on Tuesday, September 9. They are dear people and survivors of the Sunset Fire that took place in August near Athol, Idaho. Survivors they are, yet their home and livelihood was completely destroyed.

Rick shares his story. . .

"When I left my home, the day of the Sunset Fire, August 13, 2025, I had no idea I would never return to my home of 45 years--the home and place I had poured my heart and soul into.  Had I have known, I wouldn't be writing my story.  The fire wouldn't have happened because I would have stopped it from starting.  Before I became aware of the smoke in the air, [I was aware] it was a very windy day and I knew from experience that during fire season, wind means fire. I had hoped and had always been concerned that I live in the forest and that today I would get through the day without being "the one".  So, when I smelled the smoke I knew there was fire somewhere and went to see if I could find where it was and if I had any chance to stop it.  I found the fire one mile down the road--approximately 2 acres in size and raging--knowing one man with one shovel was too late.  I called 911, then neighbors.  Somewhere in all that the fire engines came and I was told I had to evacuate.  I never got to go home. 

I didn't see my home again until days later and saw then that my whole life was burned to the ground.  The future for me is yet to be written, but for now heartache and grief are my home.  The rest of the story will be written at another time." 

Isabel shares her story. . .

"When our life work--including home, shop, and ability to earn a living--and 75 acres of timbered land burned in the 3200 acres Sunset Fire in Bonner County, Idaho on 13 August 2025 we were devastated and shell shocked and could barely discern our first next steps.

Fortunately, Rick and I are each surrounded by an amazing circle of caring folks and we immediately were sheltered safely and clothed.  As the first few days passed in a blur of incomprehensibility, others stepped up to be the second wave of responders.  Glenn and Karen of After the Storm Care were among that second wave of encouragers and supporters. I would have never known that such a thing was available had they not reached out to us. We were able to meet with them personally and they brought us immediately needed items and urgent financial aid.  Our face-to-face, in-person time was valuable with them beyond the material needs met however. Glenn and Karen held our broken hearts with compassion and listened to our experience, giving us each both important validation as to our experience and to their purpose and mission.  They were each the embodiment of care and healing and, for that Rick and I will always hold a special [place] for them in our memories of this time. 

We each hope that we can build a continuing connection with the After the Storm Care organization.  We thank all the generous donors who enable Glenn and Karen to live out their life values. We are sheltered, we are together, we are loved.  We are facing forward together."  

It is because of precious people just like Rick and Isabel that After the Storm Care exists. If you would like to help us touch the lives of more people affected by natural disasters please donate today! Your support makes a difference!