Cars still being pulled from water months after Hurricane Ian pummeled Florida

naples, florida ――It was a sight I had never seen before. Drive through the coastal waters of Bonita Springs and Naples, Florida, one after another.

Some were stuck in the mud, others flipped over with their tires sticking out of the water. Another was being pulled out as our fishing boat passed by.

i knew i could see the damage here Hurricane Ian It hit the area in late September, and months later I was so devastated to see so many of the cars Ian had thrown into the water still there.

The retrieval and salvage crew work hard, but it’s quite a job.

Captain Christie broke down in tears, talking about “her backyard.” These bodies of water are where she has spent much of her life fishing and sightseeing with groups and enjoying the peace of the water.

They are now filled with debris, dive crews, and salvage teams trying to bring out the remnants of an indelible nightmare.

I would like to share some of the images to let you know what is still in progress and how much work is needed. Many of us have grandparents, parents, or friends who moved to or retired from Florida.

On the coast of Naples I saw a great many houses demolished and boarded up. And then I saw this woman. I think she was in her 70’s. beach.

The house has always caught my attention. I always admired his gray 1950s ranch. In visiting the area over the years, I always saw the driveway full of cars and families visiting and thought, “What a very special home full of love.”

A raking woman told me she retired here from Atlanta 30 years ago. I was walking on the beach with my girl when we met her. But I could see that she had a strong heart and soul, as well as the ability to do the heavy lifting she used to do at her age.

She thanked her for her prayers and said she wanted to rebuild there and increase her family’s memories. She and her family had work to do.

I hope her rebuilding dreams come true.