St Winifreds couple find hope amid loss
The Schamrels, who lost their home and dog to a fire, are overwhelmed by the generosity and support they have received.
DESPITE losing all their belongings and dog to a house fire on September 8, the Schamrels remain hopeful and thankful for the community’s unwavering support.
Annemarie and Joe Schamrel, who lived in their Umdoni Grove family home in St Winifreds for almost 30 years, said they are overwhelmed by the generosity and support from the St Winifreds Community Police Sub Forum, churches, anonymous sponsors and members of the community since their tragic ordeal.
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Joe said, “From being the first to arrive and calling the fire department, to assisting us in any way they can – I firmly believe that the riots and floods brought out a sense of community, where people stand together and help each other in times of need. We have experienced this first-hand. We have been fortune enough to receive free accommodation and much-needed items such as food and clothing. We are so appreciative and surprised by the generosity of others who have given us many things that are better than what we had.”
Community members have also spent days clearing the debris from the house, as well as stopping by to ensure no one has entered the property.
The couple’s dream is to rebuild their home and to one day pass it on to one of their children.
Annemarie said, “We are hopeful. However, the whole building has to be demolished as it was condemned. We suspect an electrical fault. This is not the end. Even though we are almost 60 years old, we cannot give up. We are slowly getting there, one step at a time.”
The Schamrels, with the help of their children, are currently in the process of obtaining new documentation in order to rebuild their lives and home.
At about 01:00 on that morning, the couple said they were woken up by an overwhelming smell of smoke, with fire raging into the passageway from a nearby room.
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“There was just thick, black smoke filling the house. I managed to grab my phone, and we were fortune enough to get out the back door as the key for the front gate had melted. I was in a state of shock and couldn’t find any numbers to call. I just started screaming for help,” said Annemarie.
Unfortunately, their beloved fur baby got trapped in the house and died from smoke inhalation.
To give a donation, or find out how you can assist the couple, contact Annemarie Schamrel on 081 788 1173.
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