By Stephanie Wesseling, American Red Cross Public Affairs

When tornadoes raged up Florida’s east coast, Betty Queen found herself facing a sudden and terrifying ordeal. Hundreds of American Red Cross volunteers were already on the ground in the state providing disaster relief after Hurricane Helene and now, just two weeks later, Hurricane Milton arrived along with widespread tornadoes.

Betty lives in the Manatee Bay community of Stuart, Florida, and her family was preparing dinner when  a roar that sounded like a freight train filled the air. Without a moment to spare, Betty’s son sprang into action, grabbing her by the leg and pulling her to the floor to shield her from the approaching tornado. The rest of the family sheltered in a bathroom, bracing for the impact.

The tornado, one of dozens to touch down in Florida that night, struck hours before Hurricane Milton made landfall on the Gulf Coast, leaving a path of destruction there. A large tree crashed into the front of Betty’s home and the roof was torn away, exposing the house to the elements. In the blink of an eye, the place where she had lived for 38 years, where she had raised her children and grandchildren, was left uninhabitable.

Red Cross volunteers surveying damage in the area visited Betty at her home after the disaster. The Red Cross provides shelter, food and water, and basic necessities after a disaster. But perhaps even more important are encouraging words of hope. The volunteers alerted Red Cross leadership about the needs in Betty’s area, and delivery of emergency supplies and other assistance will begin in the neighborhood over the coming days.

Betty’s story is one of remarkable strength and survival. She is a resilient woman who, despite the devastating loss, is grateful to be alive. Now, she faces the uncertainty of rebuilding and figuring out what comes next. She is currently staying with her granddaughter while they assess their options and begin the recovery process.

Betty is not just a survivor but a caregiver. Her son, who has a disability, relies on her, making the family’s journey to recovery even more challenging. She has seen her share of storms in nearly four decades of living in her home, but this time, the road to recovery will require more than resilience, it will require support from the community and organizations like the Red Cross.

Across Florida, the Red Cross is working to help families like Betty’s by providing shelter, food and comfort during this time of great need. Our volunteers are on the ground in the affected areas, offering vital help, hope and support.

Betty’s story is a reminder of the strength it takes to weather life’s storms and the importance of community. As she navigates the road ahead, she remains hopeful and optimistic. For Betty Queen, the journey to rebuilding has just begun, but with her resilience and the help of those around her, brighter days and a new home with a roof are sure to come.

People affected by hurricanes Helene and Milton need urgent help now, and the Red Cross can’t do this alone. You can help by making a financial donation or signing up to become a volunteer at redcross.org. Your support can make a difference in the lives of many.