Today I arrived at the Holiday Inn Express in Dehnam Springs. Our outpost was changed as a result of no one being allowed into Hammond. The extent of damage I have seen so far, basically from the highway, has been very little. I know there are some area's around here with out power, but nothing too major. Our biggest concern, as sad as it is, is the high speed internet is not working and we have to make due with dial-up.
Everyone I come in contact with seems to be at the end of their ropes. Seeing how this is only the second day and rumors have it of not letting anyone in New Orleans for some time, I don't think the hope is going to get any better. These people do not know the condition of their homes and getting through on the phones if virtually impossible, even for me. The attitude is very somber, with the exception of five people staying a few rooms down from me. When I opened the door to leave the makeshift office, I was nearly barreled down by flashes of kids running the balcony. They ranged in ages from three to eight, and each one of them had no shoes and a mouthful of watermelon. They were laughing, screaming, and generally being kids. But judging from the smiles on their faces you would never have known Gov. Blanco had declared Marshall Law a few hours earlier or how wives were sucked away from the hands of their husbands as flood waters filled the homes. Today was just another adventure to them, a different playground for the innocent of mind. Don't we all wish for such a time we can be so light hearted and not thought of as a fool.
I am not completely sure, but I think I will be working claims in a parish around Baton Rouge. This will keep me away from the majority of the flooded areas. My biggest fear now is the disease and "Toxic Soup" as it has been called. I think I will be away from that area and out of most harms way. Most of the adjusters I have talked to, ones with 15-20 years experience, say this is the worst they have ever seen. Suddenly I have a craving for watermelon and the hope of pleasant dreams.
3 comments:
David,
We know you will be very busy, but please keep us updated!
Dan
Thanks for the insights into what's going on. Stay healthy. We will be praying for you too. I am so proud of Gov. Blanco...and all the relief workers... Your journaling will help you work thru all the stuff that will be happening. There is a great sadness everywhere for this loss of life, home, security. And we realize that others have great losses also...the Shiites who died today on the bridge...almost 700. But we do keep on going on.... think I will eat some watermelon today also and pray that others have water and food....and will support thru UMCOR & Red Cross.
I'm following your progress, David and keeping you in my heart and prayers as you get out into these areas with such horrendous troubles. Roland (my brother) and his family have called me, even asked if any of my family needs shelter out here, offering to take you in. Thankfully you are doing well. Innumerable friends and neighors are asking me how my family is doing, and I'm proud as well as thankful to be able to tell them that not only are you all safe and well but are part of the support system. Such a tough job to have to do, but you bring help and hope to those who do need it. As you go about your work, know that you and those you contact are being remembered and appreciated and respected. And by the way, Happy Birthday! Love, Grandma xoxoxox
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