Dear editor:
This past summer, our family experienced a devastating house fire. Thankfully, we had no injuries to family or pets. We had been on vacation at the time of the fire. Although we enjoyed our time away, we were looking forward to coming home that was not to be. We are fortunate that we were able to find a rental home not too far away so our kids could still be close to school and friends.
In the days immediately following the fire, we found ourselves in a state of shock and uncertainty. Where do we start? Soon, we learned that we were not alone and the word “community” took a much deeper meaning.
The night of the fire, our volunteer firefighters’ courageous efforts, along with the help of other towns that responded helped save many of our priceless possessions. Friends and neighbors immediately opened their homes to us. Neighbors collectively gathered gift cards for a variety of stores knowing we needed help to replace just about everything. The people of Shamong helped with getting the kids places, helped with the pets, brought clothing and housewares and provided us with emotional support. The schools have been accommodating and the many classroom teachers have been supportive.
The kids in the community organized a car wash that raised money to help replace items to help replace lost items.
I could go on and on, and perhaps I should, but I am not sure there is enough room in this column!
We moved to Shamong 16 years ago sensing it was a special community in which to live and raise a family. We did not need a confirmation that our decision then was one of the best ones we ever made; we got that confirmation this summer.
What we want to say is, thank you. Thank you to our friends, to our neighbors, to our volunteers, to our teachers, to our acquaintances, to those we do not know by name but have touched our lives. We will never forget. You have overwhelmed us with your kindness, your generosity and your compassion. We will never be able to fully express the gratitude we fell to all of you and to this incredible community. Please know with your words and with your actions, your support has truly and meaningfully helped our family.
Sincerely yours,
The Flemming Family
