This week the Nicholsons are on their own to find a place to stay with their five children. Just 20 days ago their lives were literally turned upside down in the middle of the night when a tornado ripped through Fayette County, PA and overturned their manufactured home. Inside, all seven members of the Nicholson family were sleeping as well as the family dog.
Watch the video on this page to see Caitlin Nicholson take us through the what happened that night and how by some miracle everyone was able to walk away without any life-threatening injuries. You'll also see the $5,000 surprise we brought along, thanks to the kindness of the Bazzy family.
It all happened after 2 A.M. on August 25, 2023. Caitlin was sleeping along with her husband Nick, and their five children when a tornado formed and came barreling through their community in Mill Run, PA. The tornado picked up their home, rolling it over both of their vehicles. Nick's truck still sits inside the home. You can see it underneath with what used to be the roof, surrounding the front bumper.
Everything and everyone inside the home was turned upside down when the tornado hit, leaving them all with bumps and bruises. Amazingly the only more serious injury was to their 3-year-old son whose hand was cut by a piece of glass. He's now recovering after a couple of surgeries.
All-in-all, things could have been much worse, but the family still has to basically rebuild everything from scratch. That includes replacing most of their belongings that were tossed around in the storm. They do have insurance coverage that has already replaced their SUV, but it will take time to get the debris cleaned up and a new replacement home ready to move in.
When I talked to Caitlin before we came to visit and find out how we could help, I may have let it slip that we had a surprise. She still had no idea what we had planned though. Arianna didn't come empty-handed. Inside that secret envelope, we had a check waiting for the Nicholsons for $5,000.
Caitlin says it came at the perfect time. Today is the last day that her insurance is paying for their temporary housing, and this donation will help them get by until a temporary rental is ready to go.
They tell us they're so thankful for the help and tell us they've received nothing but love and support from the community.
Remember folks, if you want to be a helper or if you need help... please reach out.
You can send us a message on Facebook or drop me an email: getmarty@kdkaradio.com