Thanks Rick for giving us an update on the relief in New Orleans and Slidell.
Now I want to give an update to the Katrina aftermath on the Mississippi Gulf
Coast.
People keep asking us if things are being rebuilt yet, and the answer is,
things are just starting to get cleaned up. The coast line from Waveland to
Pascagoula is totally flattened for blocks inward due to a 35 foot tidal surge.
There are still 4 story casinos on the side of Hwy 90, some crushing historic
buildings that date back to the 1700’s. When you drive down Hwy 90, as far as you
can see are slabs where houses used to stand and an occasional gutted
building. The trees are literally decorated in people’s clothing and other
belongings. They are still finding bodies under debris. There are still people living in
tents. The situation is just incredible.
Our business of 51 years was destroyed in Katrina, and although we are
rebuilding, we won’t be open still for another 3 months. Thats 3 more months of no
salary with no more food stamps to help feed our families. That’s 3 more months
of our patients having to wait for their items. If the patients won’t wait,
then we lose them. So many have moved away already.
We would like to express that, although spirits are down, we are hopeful. We
are very appreciative of all those who have extended a helping hand in this
crisis situation. We would especially like to thank OPGA and Chris Wallace with
Mississippi Methodist Rehab in Jackson. God Bless them for all they have done.
Sincerely,
Dawn Hill, BOCO, C.Ped.- J J Hill Brace and Limb, Co. Gulfport, MS
