Mrs Johannesburg 2020 Simoné Botha said she and her family were left shocked after a fire damaged their house in Dayanglen on June 15.
According to Botha, the fire broke out at about 16:00 in her daughter’s room that is on the second floor of their double story home in Paul Avenue.
“My daughter, Xané (3), woke me up and told me her toys are on fire. At the time I was taking a nap because I didn’t feel well. I went to investigate and saw there was black smoke everywhere.
“After I realised the room was on fire, I rushed to get everybody out of the house. It was crazy. Everything happened so fast and I went into survival mode.
“When we were all outside, our neighbours saw what was happening and called the fire department. They responded rapidly and extinguished the fire before it could spread downstairs. We also used fire extinguishers and a fire hose to try and control the blaze while we waited for the emergency services,” Botha explained.
Her husband, Rainer, and son, Xavier (7), were also home during the incident.
“Luckily nobody was injured. I’m just grateful everybody is safe. It could’ve been a lot worse,” she added.
The beauty queen said the blaze caused a lot of damage and practically destroyed the entire top floor of her house and their personal belongings, such as clothing and toys.
“Now we have to pick up the pieces and start all over again. We’re living with my brother-in-law and will need to put down a deposit for a new house soon.
“What’s making things even more challenging is the fact that I lost my job about a month ago due to Covid-19,” she added.
She said the cause of the fire is still being investigated.
Botha added she is touched by how the community is supporting them during this difficult time.
“I would like to thank everyone who assisted us in any way. It is much-appreciated,” the former Mrs Johannesburg said.
She said her family is still in need of day-to-day necessities.
If you can assist Botha, contact her on 065 950 3703.
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