Rebuilding After the Quake

At this time of the year a Happy New Year’s wish is customary. For those affected by the 7.0 earthquake six weeks ago the wish might ring hollow when having to deal with the aftermath of a damaged or destroyed home. The damage isn’t just confined to structures. It shakes up humans as well. I wasn’t in the state for the November earthquake, nor did I experience the 1964 Good Friday earthquake at 9.2, the strongest ever recorded in North America. But my parents Sylvia and David were living in Spenard. The Good Friday earthquake changed my mom. Here’s what she told Victoria Petersen for The Spenardian, a neighborhood magazine in Anchorage, last spring:

“…going through the earthquake has left me different than I would have been and if I hadn’t gone through it. I’m really sensitive to the noise if an earthquake comes. I can hear it….I hope it’s only once in my lifetime.”

Mom and Dad pieced their life together as I’m convinced will happen to those affected the most by last month’s quake. The healing and rebuilding will take time but one doesn’t have to go at it alone. There are resources available but not always easy to find. 

We have put together a list of useful information. It’s not comprehensive by any means but it’ll assist in getting you the help you need. Please visit https://www.ahfc.us/about-us/earthquake-resources.