Following the devastating floods that occurred in the Guadalupe River area during Fourth of July celebrations, at least 104 individuals have lost their lives. Within hours, a month’s worth of rain fell, causing flood levels to rise to 26 feet and washing away cars, cottages, and mobile homes.
Those caught up in the pandemonium included Minnesota seasonal campsite workers Lyle and Sue Glenna. However, instead of concentrating only on their own escape, they used valuable seconds to warn others, probably saving many lives in the process.
“They were able to get into their truck and honk a warning out to a lot of people at the campground, which definitely helped some people make it out,” said their son, Wes Glenna, speaking to CBS News.
A GoFundMe page created to support the couple echoed that statement, crediting their “presence of mind” and fast action: “They were able to save many lives at the campground by honking their horn and waking people up, giving precious minutes for some to evacuate.”
The campground was overtaken by flooding in less than ten minutes. With just their truck and the clothes on their backs, Lyle and Sue were able to flee.
“They lost everything,” Wes said. “Friends, visitors, co-workers… They watched it happen. It was deeply traumatic.”
Lyle experienced a heart attack as a result of the extreme stress. Fortunately, he is anticipated to fully recover.
Support from the community has poured in quickly. The couple is starting to rebuild thanks to the more than $24,000 that their GoFundMe has already raised.
An update from the page reads, “Lyle was able to leave the hospital today. They wouldn’t release him without a new CPAP machine. Thanks to your kindness, it was something they were able to get quickly and without added stress.”
The post adds that insurance outcomes remain uncertain, but the donations are already providing the couple with immediate relief: “These funds are helping them start over — now and completely.”
