Hurricane Sandy affected thousands of people and devastated tons of towns, homes, and families. But perhaps one of the most moving stories to come out of the superstorm's aftermath is that of 19-year-old Zoe Everett. In a heartbreaking yet selfless move, the New Jersey teenager recently gave up her studies at Rutgers University to take care of her three younger siblings after their parents were killed in the storm. Now, she's getting a little help from The Wish Upon a Hero Foundation to help her with her journey ahead.
Everett's parents, 54-year-old Richard and 46-year-old Elizabeth, were tragically killed by a falling tree while driving through Jersey's Mendham Township. At the time, their two sons, 14-year-old Theo and 11-year-old Pierce were riding in the back, but were left miraculously unharmed. Left with an impossible choice__,__ Everett left school to look after those brothers, as well as her as 17-year-old sister Talia–a remarkably brave decision for such a young girl.
But thankfully, Everett hasn't been left all alone. After hearing her story, the Wish Upon a Hero foundation began raising money for the family and ended up earning an astounding $56,000 in donations. Wow, how incredible! It's amazing to hear that so many people were willing to step up to the plate and help this young girl raise her siblings. Though I know nothing will ever replace the loss of their parents, I can imagine that the family–Everett in particular–feels at least a slight sense of comfort knowing that she has so much support.
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Now, Everett is once again making another noble move and asking people to help other victims of Hurricane Sandy. "At this point, my family's needs have been met," she said in a statement released late yesterday. "We would like to draw attention and further donations to other individuals whose needs have not yet been met."
As someone whose town and home faced major damage in the storm (I live in Long Beach on Long Island, one of the places most affected by Sandy), this story truly touches my heart. Though it has been a devastating couple of weeks, having to leave my home and seeing the city where I grew up in pieces, the one thing that has gotten me through is knowing that what really matters is that my family and friends are safe. So I can't even begin to imagine Everett's loss or how she has been able to balance both her grief and that of her siblings.
In fact, her brave actions have left me completely in awe. I only hope she realizes that one day, her sacrifice will pay off and she will be able to return to school and accomplish her dreams. In the meantime, I have no doubt in my mind that with her amazing strength, she will do a fantastic job taking care of her family.
Image via Wish Upon A Hero Foundation
