Blind Southern California Boy and His Family Lose Altadena Home in Eaton Fire
Tragedy Strikes
On January 7, 2025, the Eaton Fire swept through Southern California, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. For the Roberts family, the blaze brought a devastating loss: their home in Altadena was destroyed, leaving them with nothing but memories and the clothes on their backs.
A Family’s Harrowing Escape
"It was like nothing I’ve ever seen before," said Terica Roberts, Grayson’s mother. "The sky was red, which isn’t typical." Her 16-year-old son, Gavin, was the first to notice the smell of smoke. "When I walked out the door, the fire was just right there," he recalled. "You could see it from the mountains and it was just blowing towards our house."
With the wind blowing at an alarming rate, the family knew they had to act fast. "At the rate the wind was blowing, I knew we had to go," Terica said. They grabbed what they could and fled the scene, leaving behind everything they knew and loved.
A Home Lost, a Future Uncertain
The Roberts’ home was reduced to ashes, leaving them with nothing but the clothes on their backs and a few essential items. For 10-year-old Grayson, who was born with a rare genetic eye condition causing eventual blindness, the loss was especially devastating. He had lost all of his instruments, along with his Braille materials, which were crucial to his daily life.
A Community Comes Together
The Roberts family is not alone in their struggle. Community members are coming together to support them, and a GoFundMe page has been set up to help with the reconstruction efforts. The family’s story has also inspired a fundraising page, which is helping to raise awareness and funds for their rebuilding.
Grayson’s Message of Hope
Despite the challenges they face, the Roberts family remains optimistic. Grayson, with his infectious enthusiasm, has a message of hope for the community: "When life gives you lemons or burnt houses, you make lemonade. Let’s rebuild and make our community better and bigger."
FAQs
- How can I help the Roberts family?
- A GoFundMe page has been set up to support their reconstruction efforts. A fundraiser to help the family rebuild can be found here.
- How many structures were destroyed in the Eaton Fire?
- According to CalFire, over 5,700 structures, many of them homes, were destroyed in the fire.
