Hearing about the flood that devastated Calgary, High River, and surrounding areas on the news is one thing. But knowing someone who has personally experienced it with their own eyes, sharing their story in their own words, is an entirely different thing. When I saw news footage of homes destroyed, lives lost, I wondered how moms explained this to their children. How do you tell them there’s no home to go home to? How do you explain mother nature, something that can not be controlled, to a child who just wants reassurance “it will never happen to me”? Blog contributor Lisa Dutton brings us this story from a member of her own family who lost their home in High River, Alberta…
Thursday June 20th started out like any other day for mom Brianna Dutton and her family. Her husband was off to work in High River Alberta, and she had just sent her sons Charlie and Sam off to school. Within 2 hours, their little family’s world would change dramatically.
At eleven o’clock that morning Brianna was called to her boys elementary. The school was being evacuated; the town was flooding.
Brianna describes the evacuation as intense. “We were running through water flowing so fast it almost pushed us over. And it came out of nowhere. When I went to get them the street was dry and by the time we got back to the car you couldn’t even tell where the street was.”
The flood that hit High River that day turned out to be the worst in Alberta’s history.
Brianna did her best to comfort her kids on the drive home. She could see the fear in their eyes. “We were stuck in traffic as the water rose around us. The kids were so scared. I remember my heart beating so hard. It was surreal.”
Once home, Brianna and the boys spent some time calming down.
Their house was on the east side of High River, the side that “never” floods. Brianna felt safe at that point. “When we found out we needed to evacuate our home too, we remained calm. We were told we wouldn’t get any water and would be back the next day. There was no water even near our home.”
Brianna, her husband and the kids fled north to nearby Calgary. Unlike many other families in the community, they had somewhere to turn. “We were very fortunate to have wonderful and generous friends and family to take us in.”
By the next day the situation in High River had become dramatically worse. The east side of the town did flood. In fact, it suffered some of the most damage. For the next few days Brianna and her husband spent their time glued to the TV news. They had no clue what state their home would be in. Brianna said at that point, she was simply mad. “I was just really angry that I didn’t take anything with me; we had no warning whatsoever.”
The family was displaced for a full two weeks before they were even able to return home to assess the damage. Brianna describes it as a feeling of homelessness. “Seeing the kids so out of sorts as we kept moving from place to place was tough. So often when they cried I cried too because I just didn’t know what else to do.”
The family knew the situation at their bi-level home was grim. “Watching heartbreak on your kid’s faces is the most difficult part, and it comes and goes. Seeing a happy little personality become quiet and sullen in a moment is just awful.”
When Brianna’s husband Mark finally got to return to the house, he vomited. He literally threw up from the filth, maybe the emotion. Very little was salvageable. One of the hardest things for Brianna was seeing her craft room. An avid scrap booker, Brianna lost them all. “All the baby photos, wedding photos and other memorabilia. Right now I’m going through a really weird phase of missing my Christmas ornaments like the macaroni angel Charlie made in Kindergarten.”
Like most families, Brianna had back up’s of all of the photos; unfortunately they were also lost in the flood.
“I had all of my photos organized, printed in albums, on disk and on my computer. When all of that is gone, it doesn’t do much good.” This leads her to a great piece of advice for everyone: “Make copies of your faves and put them at someone else’s house too!”
It’s been nearly 2 months since the flood, and many High River families are still displaced. Flood relief and insurance are top of mind for many. But Brianna has made a vow to stay positive. She is moving forward as a very proud mom. “Our little boys have done a great job. We have learned material goods in their lives don’t matter that much to them. They often comment that they miss home and their beds, but that’s it.”
Brianna has sought some counseling for the boys, 8 and 10, who she says often show signs of frustration. But it is perhaps the simple company of their buddies that’s proved to be the best therapy. “They’ve spent a lot of time with friends who were not affected by the flood so that’s been a great distraction.”
While Brianna copes with the idea of replacing nearly everything, she is confident the family can get back the thing they value most – their RUT. “It’s the loss of routine and just a sense of home that’s been hardest on all of us. We all miss our little routine. But we can get that back.”
Imagine that? That routine, that “rut” so many of us mothers often find so mundane is perhaps the thing that means the most to our children.
*** Top five household items this Feisty, Frugal and Fabulous momma plans to replace first: “Piano, beds, kitchen basics, bikes and towels!” Brianna smiles… “It’s shocking how little you really need to get by!***
Oh wow…I can’t even begin to imagine and am so sorry to hear about what all of these families have been through! What a great piece of advice about backing up photos at someone else’s house. I never even thought about doing that! We tend to forget how fragile life can be and how things can change in an instant. Keeping each other close and remembering what is most important (each other) hopefully helps to heal .
I am glad you were able to take away something from this article. Thanks for reading! LD
I’m so sorry that happened to you and your community. Thank you for sharing your story.
Wow. I cannot even begin to imagine this. It’s amazing how quickly things turn for the worst. This is heart wrenching. Thanks for sharing this powerful post.
Thank you for taking time to read. I think hearing a real mom’s story is often more powerful than anything. Take care.. LD
How incredibly awful for those that lived through this flood…and are still dealing with all the issues, problems and stress that the flood caused. I just cannot imagine how Lisa and her family (and many others) must feel about losing everything. I’m sure everyone is thankful they weren’t hurt, however, that is a small consolation when you are dealing with such devastation and having to “start again”. Such a great lesson learned here about photos/computers/hard drives. You assume as long as you have everything “backed up” you’ll always have copies of everything. Obviously that is not always the case. Thank you for telling your story, Lisa, and thanks, Tenille for sharing it. Here’s to better days, Lisa <3
Hi Sandy, the flood actually happened to my sister in law (Brianna).. I am sharing her story.. and am so glad it touched you. Thanks for reading and for your kind words. I know Brianna is reading them 🙂 Lisa D.
That is a powerful story. I commend Brianna for her positive attitude!! Thank God at least they were not in physical danger. I too am an avid scrapbooker but I have switched to digital. I have tons of paper, empty albums and other supplies that would be happy in a new home if Brianna is interested at some point in time. Just drop me an email!
Nicole at VV Boutique Style
Thanks for your response Nicole! Brianna is very positive… and it really shows in her kids! LD
It was a terrible thing that happened. I am not sure I would be able to keep such a positive attitude but at least they still have each other, things can be replaced. I wish the family all the best as they get back on their feet.
I work at an International company whose head office is in Calgary. A lot of our employees were directly affected by this disaster.
We have banded together in Ontario to support them by donating over $6000.00 to the Red Cross Relief fund and hope that they and their families can rise above the heartache and losses they have incurred.
the photos would hit me the hardest if this and hopefully it never will happen.
What an amazing story of triumph in the midst of tragedy. Praying all the best for this family and their journey back to “normal”.
thank you chelsey 🙂 your thoughts are appreciated!
What a heart breaking story. Best wishes for things to return to as close to normal for you very soon.
Such an unbelievable story. Praying for your family and everyone else who was affected by the floods.
I feel so heartbroken for them. We had a bad experience with the last storm in Ontario but nothing close to this.
Such an incredible story! much luck to them in the future!
I live in High River. I’ve passed this house many times. I have a cuple friends who lost their home and have to start all over. It’s just so heartbreaking. High River floods every year, but this was worse than any flood we’ve ever seen. Our awesome town is just upside down, it’s devastating. Thinking of Brianna and her family. 3 people died from this flood, so at the end of the day, all you need is your family. <3
thank you for taking time to respond to this story erica. take care of each other.. you sure are a strong community. Lisa Dutton.
It is so sad to see what has happened to Calgary, but amazing to see how people pull together during tough times.
It is amazing the amount of stuff we do have in our lives that mean nothing to us. So glad to see this family staying positive and “starting” over…….good for you!
exactly what i wanted people to take away from this post. thank you shelley. 🙂 LD
What an inspiring story. All the best to Brianna and her family. Hope this never happens again.
Wow, this is truly heartbreaking. I’m so sorry that this happened to you and your community. It’s so nice to see that you are all pulling together to get through this though. Best wishes going forward!
Heartbreaking. I will keep you in my prayers
What an awful experience, especially since, despite being evacuated, you thought your home would be safe. I’ll pray for you, your family and your neighbours.
heartbreaking!!! Praying for everyone
It’s definitely a very hearbreaking story and seeing the pictures makes it more real. Will be thinking of your and your family as you rebuild.
Lisa did a very good job in her first write up for you, Tenille. You only pick the best. As for Brianna, so sad, but that she has hope should give hope to others.
thank you for taking time to read this post suzanna… i am so grateful to brianna for sharing her story.. it helps us all take away a way better understanding of these disasters. take care.. LD
Such a heartbreaking event, my thoughts and prayers go to all those affected
I could not imagine going through such an event! I live in calgary and was not flooded in our area. I have not witnessed the flooding and devastation first hand except though others heartbreaking stories such as yourself Brianna! I am sorry for loss and pray for everyone effected!
We just can’t imagine how devastating that would be to lose everything and I mean everything. I have heard alot of devastating stories from families and friends and being in Saskatchewan, Alberta is our neighbor and our friend. The only thing left is picking up the pieces and starting over and hopefully everyone can continue to build a new and stronger community. Best Wishes to all!!!
I live in Calgary and the flood was one of the worst experiences I’ve had in a long time. I was fortunate to not have damage to my home. I hope this family and the many others can get the help they need.
So heartbreaking! The macaroni angel (I would be really sad too!) It really makes you think about what you really need and what is most important. I am so sorry to hear your story but so happy to hear that your family is safe.
The flooding was terrible, my prayers are with all. We also have close friends who are in the process of putting their lives back together. One day at a time they are moving forward once again, but it is painful and difficult.
You never think something like this could happen so close to home… I don’t have the words to express my sympathies and condolences to all the families affected by this tragic event.
Oh my goodness, this was so heartbreaking. I can’t even imagine what I’d do if I were in her place. I hope Brianna and her family get back on their feet real soon!
This is such a heartbreaking story 🙁 Glad that they are all safe though and that she is trying to stay positive! Thats what her kids need 🙂 Wish them all the best!
This is scary. You can never prepare yourself for anything like this… but it’s a good idea to keep copies of family photos and pictures of valuables and the insides of the house somewhere else (parents place, bank box?)
Thank you to everyone who took time to read this post and send your thoughts and prayers to Brianna and EVERYONE in High River AB. — Lisa Dutton
This broke my heart. Thanks for sharing your story. I admire your strength!
Makes me so sad to see the devastation.
So sorry to hear what happened i love that even through tough times people can be strong! my family was effected from the flood in highriver and its just been terrible my thoughts go out to anyone effected
I cannot imagine what it’s like to lose all your precious photographs and memories in a flood. My heart goes out to those affected by the flood. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you.
Your story was amazing. Thank God for his grace and mercy that is getting you through this ordeal.
Your lives were not taken, just material item that can be replaced. Praying you will be back in your
“rut” soon.
Thanks for sharing your story! We had a family member lose a house to the flood too and it is devastating. Thankfully our house just had some minor leakage, but our town was cut off for almost a week and the stores started to run out of food! It was awful and scary but I am incredibly grateful that we still have a home when others weren’t so lucky. This is not an event that we Albertans will ever forget!
Wow, I couldn’t imagine! It flooded here a few years back. The aftermath was nothing compared to that. We were so fortunate to not lose our photos ( I hate losing photos, I always put them online) I am glad everything is working out for the family.
Wow, the strength your family and other families have to get through this is inspirational and to be commended. I can’t even imagine losing so many irreplaceables like photo albums. Thanks for sharing.
Inspiring! I live in Downtown Calgary Near Princes Island and Can attest to the strength and resilience of so many. The Loss is devastating but to see how everyone has come together has restored some Faith & Hope in Humanity
And this is just one of the many stories I am sure…thank you for sharing it and giving us a taste of what it was like for the flood victims!!
I’m sorry to hear of the tragic thing that happened. Keep up the strength and positiveness! Best wishes to you.
Wow! It is so eye opening to realize how fast your life can be turned upside down! I can’t even begin to image the terror that a situation like that would bring!
Thank you for sharing your story!
It’s hard to even find words to express my feelings about this tragedy. Amazing recount – wonderful piece of writing. So sorry to hear of what Brianna and her family went through. I can’t imagine having to leave your home – with assurance that you’d be back the next day – only to find out that the home has later suffered such devastation, you’ve lost lovely and important pictures etc, and then being displaced for weeks. Her positive attitude and perseverance is remarkable. Best wishes to them in moving forward from this. Thanks for sharing.
Wow! I don’t know how I would handle something like this happening to us. It would be a terrible thing. I feel sorry for the little guys, they are so displaced and it is very upsetting for the parents to see them like that and not be able to do a thing. Its hard enough on adults to cope. I am glad you all are safe even though you did lose a lot, your lives cannot be replaced. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Wow.. unreal :(.. so heartbreaking. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all <3
So sorry to hear about this… really puts everything we go through in daily life in perspective. Take care.
Seeing the damage weeks after the flood was hard to see, I can’t imagine having to live through it.
Seeing pictures of the devastation is heartbreaking, but reading your story is even more so. I know that there are thousands who have experienced similar tragedy and I hope that you will be soon be able to regain your sense of home. God bless.
So devastating for everyone. Really makes you appreciate what you have and realize that it is the small things that have the most meaning and are irreplaceable. I admire Brianna’s strength and positivity … her family is lucky to have such an outstanding role model in their lives. Good luck to them all!
My heart just goes out to Brianna and her family and to all the other families that have suffered such devastation. We have all seen the pictures of course but reading her story has brought a personal touch to the headlines. I hope the family regains their “Rut” soon, sending prayers her way.
What heartbreak. I cannot begin to imagine how I would react. So many lives affected by this flooding. I do admire Brianna’s strength too. She is a great role model for her children. We take so much for granted, but this goes to show you just never know. I wish her family well..
I admire your strength and your ability to look to the future. Sounds to me like your family has an awesome cheerleader in yourself and with everyone pitching in and with God’s will your family will come through this terrible loss. My grandmother always used to say “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger”. My niece who lives in Calgary was working in High River for 4 weeks helping the community heal. She told us that she meant so many remarkable people, maybe you were one of them Brianna.
I am so sorry for those who lost so much. To stay positive amidst so much unrest and fear is so admirable. Am not sure I could. This story is SO right in saying that routine is what brings you back to reality…and what probably heals the most. Things really do not mean much at a time like this…having your loved ones safe does. Although, I would be very sad and disheartened to not be able to find photos and videos of my kids. The bright side is that others often have some to give back to you. I know…my brother and his wife and son lost their home many years ago from a ravaging tornado…it killed 9 members of their community that all happened to be in their very tiny subdivision. They were able to rebuild, not just their homes but their lives…others were not so lucky. My sister in law lost her wedding set, as she always put lotion on her hands at night before bed and put them in her jewelry box. They also lost all their photos of their 3 year old son, wedding pictures, everything…and that they said was the worst. They were lucky to retrieve some wedding photos when another sister in law took it upon herself to track them down by the photographer and surprisingly, they had a few shots they had kept (remember this was a huge deal, as this was in times of film and printing…not digital). I hope this family can find some treasures like that that others might have taken. But truly, the bond and closeness one feels after going through this together…that is worth more than anything money can buy or a photo can recreate…it is just plain love and support in the real flesh of man and community.
Losing photographs is so heartbreaking. Save them on Dropbox or Skydrive is a good idea.
I can’t imagine this honestly. I believe that unless you’ve lived through it you just can’t comprehend it; that’s basically with everything. Courageous and beautiful story!
thanks
Best wishes as you continue your journey. I have family that was affected by the flood, and some who are counting their blessings they were spared.
Brianna is my cousin…. I live too far away, in Kentucky, to be of much help… but if there’s anything we can do, please let us know…
Hello! I just got your email and forwarded it on to Lisa Dutton, so glad you found the post!