People Forced Out Of Homes Face Difficult Decisions
AURORA, Colo. (CBS4)- As emergency financial help comes to a close for those forced out of their homes because of recent flooding, homeowners and residents have some tough decisions to make.
Flood debris has piled up outside Susan Hamada's home in Aurora.
"My doctor recommended not to be around the mold and mildew," said Hamada.
When rushing water swamped Aurora earlier this month, Hamada's basement became submerged in several feet of water.
Because of her asthma her doctor told her to avoid contact with mold and mildew.
Her son, Glen, said she tried to take that advice, "She came in maybe two minutes and started wheezing and needed her inhaler."
Rather than leave her home, Hamada installed her pop-up camping trailer in the back yard.
"Told the kids just to put that up and stay in there until everything clears out," said Hamada.
That's where she has slept for the past two weeks, "If I was smaller it'd be better but otherwise it's not home."
Glen said sleeping in the trailer is tough for his mother but he and his father both lost their jobs recently and had no other options.
"We don't have the money to be afforded to go to a hotel so this is the next best thing," said Glen.
Hamadas said she refused to go to a shelter because she didn't want to take up someone else's spot, "I know there are people who need more help than we do so that's why we've got the trailer."
She believes that better days are ahead.
"We'll make do. Start over and go from there," said Hamadas.
Colorado Floods: How To Help
The recent floods are impacting families and communities throughout Colorado, so CBS4 has compiled a list of ways you can support the local communities impacted by the floods.
