A devastated newlywed couple is among the many who lost everything in the Franklin Fire that destroyed the Malibu community.
On Monday, Michelle and Blake Geffen quickly grabbed their cat, passport, and other important items, hopped in their car, and left Malibu.
“I heard screaming in the neighborhood, and I knew something was wrong, and then my landlord called me and just said, ‘There’s a fire, please go,'” Michelle said. “I looked behind me and saw the orange burning.”
The newlyweds had recently moved into a pink house in the Sera Retreat community, but learned on the news that an out-of-control wildfire had destroyed their rental home and all of their belongings.
Alec Gellis, who lives down the street from the Geffen family, stayed behind to protect nearby property.
“The fire was everywhere, wherever we were, wherever we went,” Gellis said. “We’re all good friends and we all want to do our best for each other. If I can, I want to do my best as well.”
The Geffens thanked Jellis and the firefighters for their efforts in battling the Franklin Fire.
“I just want to say a big thank you to all the really, really brave men and women who are doing their best to fight. They’re really, really heroes. They’re really brave.” Michelle.
The couple said they are also fortunate to have a supportive circle of friends and family to help them get through this difficult time.
“It makes me cry. It makes me feel grateful. It makes me want to give back. It feels like there’s a warm blanket around you when you’re feeling crazy and lost and confused.” Michelle said. “So we want to make sure we provide that to others as well. If anyone needs anything, we’re here.”
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