Introduction

In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the Zervos family from Riverview, New Brunswick, are beginning the difficult journey of recovery after their home was severely damaged by a fire on November 14. Meanwhile, despite the chaos of their lives being turned upside down, hope remains alive amidst community support.

The Fire Incident

On that fateful day, the family’s harrowing escape began when twelve-year-old Olivia noticed smoke emanating from a closet adjacent to her bedroom. Responding swiftly, she alerted her mother, Hayley, who instructed her to call 911 while she attempted to extinguish the flames with a fire extinguisher. Alas, the blaze was too fierce, prompting Hayley to evacuate everyone, including their beloved pets, a dog named Storm and a cat whose name has not been revealed.

"I didn't think, we just got everybody out," Hayley recalled of the terrifying moments. Her husband James, who was working in Dieppe at the time, saw the unfolding disaster through a doorbell notification on his surveillance app. "I saw it unfold live so it was a pretty scary moment when she said the house was on fire. I jumped in my car and got here as quick as I could."

Investigation and Damage Assessment

Riverview Fire and Rescue Deputy Chief Geoff Fisher has stated that the cause of the fire is still under investigation. What is certain, however, is the significant damage inflicted upon the home. "A fair bit of smoke and fire damage in the room of origin," Fisher reported, as he acknowledged the water damage affecting both levels of the house.

Family's Journey of Recovery

For the Zervos family, the past week has been a whirlwind of emotions as they transitioned from hotel living to renting a nearby house. James, who has ventured back into their former home several times, described those visits as increasingly difficult. "You just realize all the things you have lost... the whole week has been a blur trying to figure out what we’re going to be doing with our lives for the next six to twelve months. It’s pretty emotional.”

Meanwhile, 15-year-old Phoenyx, who was at work when the incident occurred, expressed her disbelief upon returning home. “It doesn't feel real almost because I've never experienced something like this. Everything just looks so different now," she said.

Children Affected by the Incident

The emotional toll on the young boys, five and six years old, is evident, as they have been asking about fire safety and escape plans. In this trying time, Olivia also shared her feelings, stating, "We pretty much lost everything in our house, and I don’t have much left. But I know we can replace a lot of things, so it’s OK."

Community Support

In the face of adversity, the Zervos family has been heartened by the outpouring of support from their community. "Just when you think things are unbearable, the kindness all around you uplifts you,” Hayley commented, emphasizing how crucial this solidarity has been.

Plans for Restoration

James detailed the extensive restoration their home will require, mentioning that "walls out, ceilings out, floors out. Windows, doors, electrical, plumbing... it’s literally starting from scratch." Not letting the fire extinguish their spirit, the family plans to salvage any Christmas decorations they can and aim for a semblance of normalcy during the holiday season.

Fundraising Efforts

In light of their situation, a GoFundMe campaign has been initiated to assist the Zervos family as they navigate their recovery. While the road ahead is undoubtedly challenging, their resilience and the unwavering support of the community prove that even in tragedy, hope can still thrive.