It has been roughly one month since Hurricane Ian ravaged our islands.
Significant progress has been made!
The First Day Back
When I set foot on the shoreline of Sanibel for the first time after the storm, it hit me. The island will never be the same. I could hardly recognize the place I have called home for more than a decade now. The streets were still flooded. Dead wildlife produced an awful stench. Everywhere you looked there was debris.
5′ of Water In Our Home
Sludge lines on the walls of our lower level indicated at least 5 feet of water swept through our home. We spent the first week dragging waterlogged furniture and drywall to the curb. The hole in our roof was patched with a temporary solution. And the clean up process began.
Cleaning Up The Office
With the help of Anna and Jeff Turner, the same process began for our office. Business cards and paperwork were peeled up from the wet carpet. Furniture and computer screens were brought to the curb. Smiles, memories, and laughter were shared to lighten the mood.
Sanibel Camaraderie
Nothing can prepare you for the aftermath of an event like this. But fellowship carries you through it. We knew the island community was special before we even moved here. We experienced overwhelming support when starting our family business on the island. But nothing compares to the camaraderie and spirit of determination that has taken hold of this small barrier island.
Below are some photos that truly represent the pride and spirit of the islands:
Sanibel Strong
There’s no doubt that the islands will recover, even faster than we imagined. At the same time, we know there are some things that simply will not be the same. This is the ebb and flow of life. While we mourn the loss of Sanibel pre-Ian, we know the future is bright. We can see it gleaming in the eyes of those here – restoring paradise.
