Texas Flood Survivor, 83, Recounts 'Miracle' Escape and Community Resilience

Devastating Floods in Texas

• 💔 Seven weeks after torrential rains, some Texas communities are still recovering from devastating floods that swept through in the middle of the night.
• 🕯️ As of the report, 135 people had lost their lives, with two still missing, and recovery efforts are ongoing.
• 🎗️ In Kerville, a memorial with wooden crosses and green ribbons near the Guadalupe River honors the victims, symbolizing support and remembrance.

Penny Dri's 'Miracle' Survival

• 🏠 83-year-old Penny Dri describes her survival as an absolute miracle, crediting God for being present every second.
• 🪜 Facing rising waters that reached the top of her house, Penny climbed a ladder through her attic to reach the roof.
• 👶 She bravely navigated the darkness and rushing water, which was described as "10 times Niagara Falls," to save herself and nine others, including a one-month-old baby and two great-grandchildren.
• 🤝 A neighbor, using a ladder provided by the Hunt Volunteer Fire Department, ultimately rescued Penny and the group from the roof.

Other Survivor Stories and Resilience

• 🌳 Michelle Magguire recounts waking up on her bed floating in water and clinging to a tree for dear life, ultimately being saved by her faith and community support.
• 🙏 Michelle is grateful to be alive and is receiving a new truck from Samaritan's Purse, while also utilizing counseling and support groups to cope with the trauma.
• 🌟 Despite the tragedy, residents have witnessed an incredible display of unity and compassion from volunteers nationwide.

The Power of Volunteers

• 🤝 Greg Atkins highlights the incredible support from volunteers who drove hours, slept in trucks, and worked tirelessly to help clear debris and rebuild homes.
• 🚗 Volunteers from Texarkana, New Mexico, and Shriner University, among others, dedicated weeks to assisting survivors.
• 🛠️ A business from Decatur, Texas, brought expert crews for remediation, and local plumbing companies also provided crucial assistance.
• 💖 Greg, despite losing his home, feels blessed by the overwhelming volunteer support, emphasizing that the rebuilding process is largely volunteer-driven.