My Katrina update.

[sam_portera]

I lived in St bernard parish wich is still underwater. My house is

a total lose, water over the roof. My darkroom that took me years

to build is no more, but....

 

I am in Alexandria with the nicest people on earth. They have done

more for us than I could ever imagined. I made it out with some of

my cameras, Lighting equipment was in the darkroom so don't have

that anymore.

 

I work for the state Charity hospital system and they are placing me

into the local hospital for some income.

 

We are living in a small camper with no seage or water but we are

safe and comfortable, There is home nearby where we shower and use

the restroom. Spend most days sitting outside with family and

freinds and playing with our dogs.

 

All of our memories are gone, my daughters pictures she drew us,

All of her school projects, the Doll house I made for her. Thats

whats the hardest, remembering everything I should have grabbed when

I left there sunday morning.

 

Thanks to all who have sent clothes and food, It is getting to us,

My daughter now has clothes and I have clothes to start working

again.

 

Thank you all for the help.

[Alex_Es]

Dear Sam,

 

It is so very sad to hear about your terrible losses but heartening to know that you are safe and in the company of good people.

 

Please take care of yourself and thanks for writing.

 

With best wishes,

 

Alex

[pensacolaphoto]

Sam, <br> I wish you and your family the very best to start a new life. I am glad that you now have a roof ov er your head and a job to give you some income.

[socke]

Sam, I'm so happy to hear from people who are save.

And you still have youre memories, which is valuable in itself.

[paul_neuthaler]

You will not only survive, you will endure! Your attitude is inspiring. God bless you & your family.

[j m shaw]

Sam, the best of luck to you and your family. I lived in NOLA for many years ( CA now) my heart goes out to all in Louisianna and surrounding states. Mark

[SCL]

In spite of your losses, you and your family are truly the lucky ones, you got out alive and with your health. May your life and that of your family be strengthened by the past.

[john_r._fulton_jr.]

Your positive and uplifting attitude in such extremely trying conditions is an inspiration.

All the best and thanks for letting us know how things are.

[shambrick007]

Sam,<p>

So sorry for your losses.<p>I do have some spare darkroom gear, not much. When you're settled, let us know, and I'll ship it off to you.<p>Hang in there!

[david_doyle]

From the Times-Picayune today:

<p>

<i>Across the neighborhood, residents took what items they could fit in a boat. One

woman loaded up her boat with her collection of cashmere sweaters, her cat and the 1957

Leica camera that belonged to her grandfather.</i>

<p>

Sam,

<p>

I'm glad you and your family are OK and accounted for. Gear can

be

replaced and maybe some here will help in that when the time arrives.

[mark_theken]

Hello Sam: Thanks for sharing your story. Your positive attitude in spite of all you have lost is very inspirating. Please contact me when things become settled. I have some darkroom equipment equipment that I am no longer using I would like to offer to you.

Very best regards, Mark

[working camera]

Seeing the news shots from the other side of the Pacific is one thing.

 

Cheers for reporting in Sam.

 

All the best mate and hoping all can be rebuilt sooner rather than later.

 

C.

[graham_morriss2]

Sorry to hear of your losses but good to hear that you, your family and the dogs are ok thinking of you all from here in the UK.

Graham