Bobbie and Gerald Watkins had intended to spend the rest of their lives in their Palisades home. At 88 years old, Bobbie and 97-year-old Gerald, a Holocaust survivor, found themselves among the last residents to evacuate their condo complex during the devastating Palisades Fire. Sadly, their home was destroyed, along with irreplaceable family photos and personal records.
“We left with far too little, thinking we would be back,” Bobbie lamented. The loss of their birth certificates, marriage certificates, and precious mementos has left them grappling with a profound sense of emptiness. Gerald expressed, “After a lifetime of saving and planning, to suddenly lose everything and face the question, ‘What now?’ is incredibly daunting.”
Their experience reflects a common sentiment among older fire victims, with data showing a significant percentage of those affected by fires being over 65 years old. Dr. Laura Mosqueda, a geriatrics professor at USC, highlighted the challenges faced by older adults in restarting their lives after such a catastrophic event, both practically and philosophically.
Currently staying with friends, the Watkins are among many seeking housing assistance, contending with a younger, more tech-savvy demographic for available resources. Despite their hardships, Gerald expressed gratitude for being alive and for having their story shared.
