A Connecticut family’s entire life changed in the blink of an eye on June 25, 2016. Keep in mind, it's a tragedy that could happen to any one of us at any moment in time.
Randy Bova was alone in the home he shares with his mother, Lucy, his younger brother, Robert, and their pup named Bailey. Randy was listening to music in his room upstairs when, all of a sudden, Bailey came up to him acting very strangely. Sensing that something was very wrong, Randy went downstairs to find the first floor completely enveloped in smoke.
With no time to gather any material items, Randy scooped up Bailey and slipped out the back door, only to see that his childhood home was entirely engulfed in flames.
This is is the sight that Robert, Randy’s younger brother, came home to that day. Each and every one of his material possessions, which held his childhood memories, are gone.
Thankfully, though, no one was hurt in the fire. For that, the family is incredibly thankful.
The real hero of the hour, though, is Bailey. Who knows what could have happened to Randy if Bailey hadn’t been such a clever pup?
In a post on Facebook, Randy lovingly recognizes how his close canine friend saved his life:
“Our dog Bailey has been receiving a lot of attention since the incident… She relishes being in the spotlight. I remember when Bailey and I took first place in our agility class. The instructor came up to me and said ‘You must have trained Bailey very well.' The truth is that Bailey was just very easy to train, she's a very special and bright dog. I've always loved her, but now I owe my life to her as well.
"I'm happy to announce that Bailey has finally gotten used to hotel living and has calmed down a bit (the new crate and bone she received played a role in this).
"As for the rest of us, we're doing a bit better now thanks to all of those close to us that have donated food and clothes, and of course because of all you GoFundMe backers. You guys are the best.”
When LittleThings asked for a comment on how the family is doing now, Robert replied with realistic optimism. The reality of the situation hasn’t completely sunken in with the family as they spend an indefinite amount of time at a local Red Roof Inn.
“Everything seems fine until you realize yet another sentimental item that you will never see again. From old beanie babies to all of my childhood sports equipment, no words describe the emptiness it makes me feel,” he says.
The entire family is adjusting to life as it stands. Bailey is acclimating to her temporary surroundings while the family takes everything day by day.
While they look for a new place to live, the family remains optimistic and is grateful their brave family pup took the initiative to make sure they were out of harm's way.
Randy and Robert may no longer have the things that remind them of their childhood memories, but they’ve still got each other. They also, thanks to social media and GoFundMe, have already had tons of support from their community in Guilford, CT, and beyond. On July 2, Robert posted a message of gratitude to Facebook:
“Can't believe it's been exactly a week since my house was on fire and burning away. I wanted to take a minute to thank everyone who has been there for my family this week. We have had overwhelming support come from all angles. I thank all those who have shared the GoFundMe page, and those who have helped us hit half of our goal in just one short week. It feels like it was just yesterday that this all happened. My family continues forward with a positive attitude… understanding there is still a long road ahead of us.”
Thank goodness for dogs like Bailey, who, in the face of danger, disaster, and tragedy, keep calm and do exactly what they have to do. Without her, this loss could have been so much greater. She really is a true hero!
If you would like to help this family in their time of need, you can check out their GoFundMe page to donate. Every tiny bit counts in a time like this, as the Bovas have to completely rebuild their entire lives. How would you feel if something like this happened to your family?
Please SHARE with your family and friends on Facebook to help this family and their precious pup get back on their feet!
