For many residents of the New York area who were affected by Hurricane Sandy, the process of recovery continues two years later as the city rebuilds. The New York Times asked readers this month to share their stories, highlighting any lessons they learned in the aftermath of the storm. We wanted to know what they would do differently and what advice they had for others. Here is a selection of excerpts from their responses:
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“No matter how prepared you are for the effects of a hurricane, you’re never prepared enough to cope with the loss of your home.”
— Annemarie Tierney 50, who lost her home and a rental home in Highlands, N.J. She is living in Holmdel, N.J., while she rebuilds.
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“We learned first-hand that the best way for us to heal from our devastation and loss was to help others recover.”
— Karen Taylor-Burke, 42, of Leonardo, N.J., whose home was destroyed. She and her husband hope to be done rebuilding next spring.
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“You think your house is permanent; life and other things as well. When you lose your house and every thing you own, you learn everything is temporary.”
— Kenny Vance, 70, of Rockaway Beach, N.Y., who lost his house of 40 years.
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“The sun always rises and the beauty of the beach never diminishes.”
— Patricia Hickey, 58, of Rockaway Beach, N.Y., whose condo is still being repaired.
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“Cliche, but there is no place like home. Our community came together. It was amazing.”
— Kelly Leverock, 39, of Union Beach, N.J., whose home had to be demolished.
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“If you live in a flood zone, keep receipts of purchases for reimbursement later. Keep copies of important documents in a safe deposit box.”
— Patrick Brosnahan, 81, of Broad Channel, Queens, whose house was flooded and had to be rebuilt.
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1. Evacuate
2. Things are only things
3. Family, friends and community are most important
4. Do your due diligence in selecting a contractor
— Aldis “Allie” Hagen, 55, of Breezy Point, Queens, whose home burned to the ground.
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“I learned that New Yorkers are warm people and will do everything they can to help. Even people who lost everything will put others first.”
— Debbie Farkas, 27, whose lights in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, flickered. She has since moved to Guatemala City.
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“Being born and raised in New York, I wasn’t prepared, but I am ready now. I’ll do whatever it takes if there is ever a next time, just like I did this time. Just with a bit more experience that’s all.”
— Elaine Rodriguez, 55, of Rockaway Park, Queens, whose basement flooded and who lost four cars.
Do you have any lessons you learned from Hurricane Sandy or advice you would give? Please share it in the comments section.