Preston Family at Herrick: Needs Are Met

We told you this morning that the needs of the John Preston family at Herrick have been met after they lost their possessions when a tornado struck their home Friday night. John Preston was injured in the incident and is still hospitalized in Springfield.

The Prestons' friend, Tyler Shab, posted a Facebook message with us updating everyone on the status of things, and to say Thank You on behalf of the Preston family. Tyler has coordinated relief efforts on behalf of the Preston family.

Tyler Shab sent this:
"The Preston families needs have thankfully been met. They are so so thankful. We will be moving their items to storage until they find a home. We are still searching at this point. Due to the extent of his injuries the house cannot have any steps, which is limiting the options. John and I had a great conversation last night. The doctors said he is making leaps and bounds on his recovery often telling him to slow down and take it easy, but that's the John we know and love. He has fought like hell and he's one tough s.o.b.

"Just so there is complete transparency on the efforts at the Hobby Lobby location our community has donated over $1,800 in cash and checks, and as of 1:30pm the gofundme has just surpassed $5,500. This is a Christmas season that I will never forget. I'm so proud to call this place my home. I will remain on site at hobby lobby until 6pm this evening to accept donations.

"If there is anyone in our community that needs warm clothing please reach out to me today. There's more than enough here to go around. Tomorrow morning this packed trailer heads for Kentucky. I wanted one more opportunity to thank everyone that helped. Big Thank you to Ed Lewis Trucking, Hobby Lobby, and Handle with Care Packaging Store for helping make all this possible. I will never forget this. It's been the most humbling experience of my life. I hope you all have a Merry Christmas. God Bless."