A Portuguese emigrant family experienced the devastating loss of their dog and home in a fire in Ironbound, Newark, New Jersey, last April.
The family confirmed that the fire occurred on April 22, originating from a short circuit.
Living in the house were Zacarias Barbosa, Maria Generosa Barbosa, both 70, and their children. The couple, who rely on wheelchairs due to health issues, were rescued by one of their children who was at home during the incident.
“I had to drag myself out of the house. Our son helped us a lot and even tried to save our four dogs,” Mr. Barbosa told the local newspaper, expressing grief over the loss of one of their dogs.
“I mourn that animal a lot; it was my companion. It always slept with me and rested its head on my leg,” he recalled.
No injuries were reported, although some hospital observation was necessary. Zacarias also lost a prosthetic leg, which he had due to diabetes-related amputation.
Nearly all belongings were destroyed, and the home became uninhabitable. However, one item remained untouched: a statue of Our Lady of Fátima.
“It stayed completely intact! There are incredible things… the only explanation, for me, is the faith we have, like any Catholic. It was Our Lady of Fátima who saved us,” he stated.
The family has been staying in a hotel until they can secure an apartment, with their dogs staying with friends. A friend launched a GoFundMe campaign to support the family’s immediate needs, raising $24,000 out of a $28,000 goal.
The couple hails from the Aveiro district.
