Columbia family gives thanks after fire

As many of you know, our peaceful lives turned upside down recently after we lost our home to a fire. It has been a dreamlike time. Thankfully, our family is safe, and that is absolutely the most important thing.

We have to begin with a special thanks to the firemen who came to our home on March 9. We cannot thank you enough for your efforts to keep our family safe and for trying to save our home.

With regard to the community in general, the staff at ManorCare Health Services, and the Groton schools, a heartfelt thank you for all of your generous donations of time, money, clothing and meals.

We would also like to thank the individuals and local businesses that donated time/ items to the various fundraisers. Your contributions did not go unnoticed and are much appreciated.

Never in a million years did we think we would be on the receiving end of so many fundraisers. You should all be so proud of the community we live in, as it possesses a spirit of compassion that is truly amazing.

The compassion and generosity that has been shown to us started while the fire was still burning and continues each day. It has been overwhelming.

We certainly have a long road ahead, but it is so comforting to know that we are not alone. We are eternally grateful for everything the community has done for us. It may be a while before we get a chance to acknowledge friends, families, and firefighters individually, but know that we have seen every text, listened to every voicemail, read each email, and treasured each of the beautiful cards that have been sent. We are truly humbled by it all.

We will never forget the incredible support you have all given us. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

Shad Albrecht, for the Albrecht family

Columbia