Mimi Teller, American Red Cross

When the waters along the Skagit River surged, Joseph Sabel had only moments to react. For the past 13 months, he had lived in the Conway area beside the riverbank, building up everything he owned piece by piece. 

“I've lost everything, close to $7,000 in stuff,” he said. “When I got paid, I would buy what I needed. That’s what I lost. Six tarps, all my clothes, three sleeping bags, my air mattress, my ID, Social Security card, birth certificate, propane tank, Bunsen burners, phone and portable heater.” 

One thing Joseph didn’t lose was his cherished record collection — over a dozen LPs, including classics like Led Zeppelin II, and nearly every Beatles album. 

As the floodwaters rose, Joseph climbed to a small patch of higher ground and waited, stranded and exposed. 

“For two hours I screamed for someone to help me,” he said. “Someone finally heard me and help came in a raft.” 

The day after his rescue, Joseph reached the American Red Cross shelter at Bethany Covenant Church in Mt. Vernon, where volunteers welcomed him with warmth, supplies and a safe place to regroup. It was the first time he had faced a disaster like this — yet, he said, this marks the 45th time he would have to start over. Despite the loss, he spoke with unmistakable gratitude. 

After spending Christmas in Red Cross care at the Candlewood Inn in Burlington, Joseph prepared to take his next steps. When he left, Red Cross shelter resident transition volunteers equipped him with resources to help him return to his pre-disaster status — including blankets, sleeping bag, tent, warm gloves, hat, socks, headlamp, 20 non-perishable meals and other essential resiliency supplies — all packed into a new, sturdy wagon he could easily bring with him. 

As he looks ahead, Joseph said he will hold on to the kindness he received after the flooding. 

“I’m overwhelmed and inspired by all the Red Cross is doing for me,” he said. “No one has ever helped me like this. The Red Cross showed up for me when I needed it most, I won’t forget that.” 

Be that person that brings hope when all is lost. Sign up today to be a Red Cross volunteer at redcross.org/volunteer.

About the American Red Cross: 

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.