Charlotte Residents Rally for Family in Need After Flooding
In the vibrant city of Charlotte, N.C., hearts are heavy as we hear about the struggles of the Norket family, who recently faced the devastation of losing their home to flooding caused by Hurricane Helene. For Stan and Trisha Norket, their beloved home on Riverside Drive was more than just a structure; it was a place filled with memories spanning 28 years. Sadly, the impact of the storm has left the house seriously damaged and now unlivable.
Emotional Turmoil of Memories Lost
Kim Dellinger, the Norket’s daughter, shared her heartbreak with the community as she reflected on the years spent in their home. “All the memories that we’ve had for the past 28 years—my children, my grandchildren, friends, family—it’s heartbreaking,” she expressed. The emotional burden is particularly heavy as her mother, Trisha, is battling dementia, and her stepfather has recently undergone surgery.
To complicate matters, both Stan and Trisha were out of the house when Helene swept through, leaving them without a home to return to. Kim poignantly noted, “The most heartbreaking thing is that my stepdad had surgery, and on Sunday, he couldn’t even come from the hospital to a home.”
A Family’s History of Resilience
Tragedy is no stranger to the Norket family. In October of 1993, the family faced another devastating blow when their son, John Burnette, was killed in the line of duty alongside another officer, Anthony Nobles. The two were pursuing a suspect when they were tragically shot. Dellinger recalled that experience, saying, “That was very hard. You get a sudden call that somebody’s been murdered, and then you have to go through all the court; it’s not easy.”
Recovering Memories Amidst the Chaos
Despite the overwhelming situation, Kim and her son took it upon themselves to sift through what remained of her parents’ home. Their efforts were rewarded when they discovered precious old photographs and even uniforms worn by her brother and stepfather during their service with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. “I’m very happy that my son was able to get these out, and they look like they really weren’t damaged that much,” Kim said gleefully, holding the cherished uniforms.
A Community United in Support
As if guided by a spirit of community, the city has rallied around the Norket family. This coming Monday, a special golf tournament known as the Burnette Nobles Memorial Golf Tournament will take place at the Highland Creek Golf Club in Charlotte. This event not only honors the memories of fallen officers but also serves a purpose greater than the game itself. The funds raised during the tournament will assist various charitable causes, including a portion specifically allocated for the Norket family’s relief efforts.
“It means a lot. I’m just very thankful for it. I’m very thankful,” Dellinger said, expressing her gratitude for the community’s support while still advocating for other families in similar predicaments. “They need people out here helping them get their houses cleaned up. They need water. They need storage containers. They need food. They need help,” she emphasized.
Future Uncertain, but Hope Remains
Currently, Kim is uncertain where her parents will find permanent residence, revealing that they will not be returning to Riverside Drive. Yet, in the midst of trials, the community’s outpouring of compassion provides a glimmer of hope for the Norkets and others affected by the storm. Anyone interested in helping can participate in the golf ball drop fundraiser at the upcoming tournament.
In tough times, the spirit of Charlotte shines through, reminding us all of the strength and resilience embedded within its community.
