One day, Ray Lucas and his girlfriend, Shi’Ann Brown, went to the corner gas station near their house in Eastpointe, Michigan. During their 15-minute trip, their entire lives changed.
When they returned, they discovered their home was engulfed in flames. Ray’s mom and niece were standing outside, completely distraught. Before they left, Ray had put his baby girls in the basement for a nap – and they were still there when he arrived.
Without hesitation, the brave dad headed into the smoke-filled basement to save them. “I just knew I had to get my babies out,” Ray said. “That’s what went through my mind.”
Fire marshals later guessed the fire had originated in the basement. Because of that, it’s safe to say that Ray had to venture into the most dangerous part of their home in order to save his children.
“You really couldn’t see your hand in front of your face,” he said. “I really only found my babies due to my memory, just knowing where they were and knowing how to get to them.”
Thankfully, Ray was able to save both of his 18-month-olds, Milan and Malaysia. They were sent to the ICU to be treated for smoke inhalation, and Milan also received second-degree burns.
Ray’s injuries were much worse. He ended up with second- and third-degree burns all over his body, including his face, eyes, neck, and arms.
“I was temporarily blind for three days, and they said it was a miracle I could see,” he explained.
Unfortunately, their home and most of their possessions were destroyed, and because of his severe injuries, Ray will be unable to work for the foreseeable future. That’s why a GoFundMe page was set up with a goal of $40,000 to cover their medical expenses, a new home, and new belongings.
“If anybody can support that’ll be great,” Ray said.
The heroic dad reached out for help, and people from all over were more than happy to do just that. In a few short weeks, over $474,000 have been donated.
As difficult and terrifying as this whole ordeal has been, at the end of the day, Ray and his family couldn’t be more thankful for how things turned out.
“I’ve got burns on my arms, but for the most part, everyone is still here,” he said.
Share this story to wish Ray a speedy recovery and to celebrate his love for his daughters.
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