John,

The last few days have been some of the most challenging and heartbreaking for those who have lost so much. I've spent it on the ground with the Red Cross and the Department of Natural Resources, assessing the damage firsthand.

Homes can be rebuilt and possessions replaced, but loss and grief are real and hard to overcome alone. I know when we come together as a community to support each other, we are stronger in the face of hardships.

I couldn't be more grateful to our firefighters, dispatchers, first responders, police officers, state patrol, and support teams. In the worst of times, the best of us comes forward.

It will take a lot of effort and time on the ground to rebuild homes and lives. As we recover from this devastation, there is more we can all do to help. You can help make a difference by donating to the American Red Cross here ➡️

We're in this together,

Hilary Franz