Family Victimized by Floods Learns About Kindness of Strangers
WHITEFISH BAY - The Cigelske family was devastated on July 23rd when they came home to a foot of water in their house. Eleven inches of rain fell in a matter of two hours.
“Our entire first floor was wrecked,” Tim Cigelske, flood victim said.
The Cigelske’s don’t have a basement – one of two houses on their block that don’t.
“So we thought we might be safe when this flood hit,” he added.
Instead watergushed through the front door wiping out their entire living space, including 4 month old Clara’s nursery. Tim, Jess & Clara had to move out immediately.
“It was the hardest going into her nursery and realizing it was totally wrecked and we spent months fixing it making it perfect you go inside and cant' be there anymore,” Tim said.
The Cigelske’s thought they’d be fine until they learned insurance won’t cover the damage.
“Getting the phone call back from the insurance company saying we were denied, I think was my first breakdown,” Jess Cigelske, flood victim, said.
Tim, an avid tweeter, posted the devastating news on social networking site “Twitter.” Much to his surprise, help from strangers followed.
“I thought you know what, I can help!” Katie Klein-Murphy, helping flood victims, expressed.
Katie Klein-Murphy had never met The Cigelske’s, but with the help of fellow tweeter, Sue Spaight, she organized a fundraiser for the humble family of three and other flood victims. She says within 12 hours it turned into a big event. Sprecher Brewery is donating the space, COA Restaurant is donating food and William Ryan Homes and Renewal by Anderson helping to repair the Cigelske’s house.
“It's like all these people want to help us and they don't even know us and it's just unbelievable,” Jess said humbly.
The Cigelske’s have now been able to wipe away tears of distress and smile about their future with new friends.
“I definitely think this is a lifelong friendship now. I don't see us parting ways anytime soon,” Klein Murphy said.
The fundraiser is titled Save Teecycle. It will take place from 7 - 10pm on Saturday, September 18th at Sprecher Brewery. There will be silent auction and cash bar. It is free to attend.
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