Moose Jaw -
The family which lost its home on the weekend to an accidental fire is doing well and getting settled into a new home, according to another family member.
Although the family of three is grateful to have a temporary place to call home, mother-in-law and grandmother, Yvonne Waller said family members are still trying to come to terms with the loss.
"They are a strong bunch and have had support all around them since the tragedy and I think that is helping them deal."
She said the Canadian Red Cross has been absolutely wonderful and has played a major role in helping the family begin to get back on its feet.
As for the family's dog, currently being treated in Regina, Waller said he is still not ready to come home, but is doing much better.
"I think he is going to make it. He really is such a loveable dog and we all really like him, so we are happy to hear he is doing well."
Waller said at the time of the fire all three family members were out celebrating her grandson's graduation.
She said what was supposed to be a joyous occasion turned into a nightmare quite quickly.
"(My grandson) is a good kid and he had been really looking forward to his graduation and before he even had a chance to celebrate they got the call about the fire."
She said she was sitting across from her grandson and granddaughter when they got the call. "It was just heartbreaking to see their faces when they heard the news."
She said the family members immediately left the graduation and returned to the house where they stood in awe as they watched their home and memories go up in smoke.
Waller said her grandson returned to the celebration later in the evening but said he was unable to enjoy the rest of the night due to the devastating fire.
She said the amount of support given by family, friends and even strangers has been amazing.
She said the other day her daughter-in-law was out shopping for towels and when she got to the check-out counter to pay, the lady behind her voluntarily paid for one of her bags.
Waller said it is those types of actions that truly make the difference in these types of situations.
One of the hardest losses for the family, beyond the home, car and personal possessions, said Waller has been the loss of memorabilia reminding them of their father and husband.
Almost 14-years-ago the family lost Waller's son to cancer. She said the memories and possessions the children lost in the fire that reminded them of their father are the ones that hurt the most.
Lyndsay McCready can be reached at 691-1256.
