On Jan. 30 our lives were turned upside down. We lost our home and our family pets, Zoe and Stitch, to a massive house fire. It has certainly been a surreal experience, one that left us struggling with all the “what if’s.” But, thankfully and most importantly, our family is safe.
There are not enough thank you cards or hours left in our lives to properly thank all the people who have loved us, supported us, and were just there for us through this tragedy. However, we would like to send out a few special thanks.
We would like to begin with the first responders, the fire fighters and police of Fayetteville. Although our home was a total loss we cannot thank you enough for your heroic efforts. You guys should wear capes.
We would also like to express our heartfelt thanks to the Fayette County School System in general, but especially to our children’s schools, Sara Harp Minter Elementary, Whitewater Middle School, and Whitewater High School.
Thank you to each of the faculty, parents, and students that sprang into action to ensure our children would have the support and resources they needed to deal with this tragic event. Your generous donations of time, clothing, gift cards, money, and meals went above and beyond. Parents and teachers, you should all be so proud of your children. They each possess a generosity and spirit that is truly amazing.
To our home church, Southside Church Peachtree City, as well as Inman United Methodist and other churches in the surrounding area, thank you. We wouldn’t have been able to deal with this tragedy without you. We have been overwhelmed by the support that your ministries have provided for our family
While we are devastated that the reminder of a house fire will be etched as one of our children’s most significant memories, we are consoled by the fact that these incredible acts of kindness are a much more uplifting experience. We are so grateful they were able to witness, firsthand, the goodness in people during such a frightening time for them.
The road ahead for us is still a long one, but it is so comforting to know that we are not alone. We are eternally grateful for everything the community has done for us.
It may be a while before we get a chance to acknowledge all our friends, family, and first responders, individually. But, know that we have seen every text, listened to every voicemail, read each email, and treasured each of the beautiful cards that were sent. We are truly humbled. We will never forget your support.
Nothing but love,
The Chitwoods
Rick, Mary Jo, Emory, Jaeleigh,and Rolin
Fayetteville, Ga.
