An Oklahoma nurse was left homeless for the holidays after her house burned down while she was at work treating COVID-19 patients.
Tina Irwin was working a 12-hour shift at Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City when her neighbor called to tell her her home was on fire, according to KOCO News 5.
Three of the mother’s four children were at home when the fire started, the outlet reported.
“I realized my daughter … the terrifying scream. I’ve never heard a scream like this, “Irwin told KOCO 5.
“The flames were … I couldn’t believe it. I’m a single mother and I’m just going and it’s all gone. “
Irwin managed to retrieve some souvenirs, including photos and his daughter’s graduation cap.
In the middle of the recovered objects was the fire film “Scale 49”, which Irwin said was ironic.
Fortunately, Irwin’s son managed to drive his sisters and pets safely, and no one in the family was injured.
The cause of the fire is being investigated.
Meanwhile, community members and those who wished donated nearly $ 20,000 to the family on a GoFundMe page.
“They will need basic necessities for the next two weeks, but if we could bless her family financially, any amount would help while picking up the pieces, especially during this holiday season,” the fundraising plea reads. .
In a Facebook post, Irwin thanked her neighbors for coming to her aid and said she was trying to stay positive.
“I receive so many texts and posts with words of encouragement and much-needed help. I want each of you to know how much this means to our family … I woke up this morning, praying it was just a nightmare, but when I opened my eyes it became surreal. I immediately realized that the baby’s steps are all I can do. We are safe, warm, together and the food to eat, we are at a good start “, it is shown in the post.
Irwin has been working in the hospital for 12 hours since the beginning of the pandemic.