Harrogate house fire family launches crowdfunding appeal
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Last updated Apr 28, 2024

A Harrogate family whose home was devastated by fire has launched a crowdfunding appeal.

Mikey Donald said his parents’ home insurance had lapsed a month before Friday’s fire, which ripped through the garage and house on Avenue Close in Starbeck.

You can read about the incident here.

In his appeal post, Mr Donald posted photos showing the impact of the fire and said he was “reaching out for support during one of the toughest times my family has faced”.

The car and garage were ruined by fire.

 

The bedroom

He said his dad Mike Donald, 58, was disposing of paperwork when fire broke out:

“A sudden gust of wind sparked a fire that engulfed our garage and home. Miraculously, no one was harmed, but the flames ravaged everything we held dear, leaving behind only memories amidst the ashes.

“To add to the hardship, we learned that our insurance had lapsed just a month before the incident, leaving us vulnerable and without coverage. Now, we’re faced with the daunting task of rebuilding our home from scratch, a journey filled with uncertainty and challenges.”

Mr Donald said his father’s partner Rhona Andrew, 57, was an NHS nurse who had “devoted her life to caring for others” and was awaiting kidney and pancreas transplants due to declining health.

He added his father, a joiner, was “always lending a helping hand in our Starbeck community”.

Mr Donald said:

“Your kindness and support mean everything to us during this dark chapter. Every contribution, no matter the size, will directly aid my dad in rebuilding our family’s home and restoring hope in our hearts. Thank you, from the depths of our souls, for considering to stand by us in our time of need.”

More than 120 people had donated a total of around £2,500 by last night. You can donate here


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