“Why am I still here? I need to get home and see what can be salvaged,” she said with frustration. Carol, a nurse, replied, “Honey, you have to be observed for a while because of the concussion. I promise it won’t be long though.” She shared a look with Laurie and Emma that Jean caught. “What are you not telling me? Did I lose everything? Is the whole house gone?” Her voice began to rise with each question, a feeling of panic setting in. “And where is Brock?” Seeing their guilty looks again only fueled her panic. Struggling to sit up, Carol rushed over and gently held her back. “Jean, it’s okay. Please, stop.” Laurie assured her, “Rob said your house was saved although the garage is gone and the kitchen has significant damage. There’s water and smoke damage, but honey, everything’s going to be okay.” Jean lay back in the bed, tears finally overflowing. The events of the day suddenly loomed in her mind and she could not stop the sobs. The women huddled close, each trying to offer comfort.
