On the scorching day of August 31, 2022, Sanjuana Fukuda was sitting outside her home drinking her usual morning coffee. She was aware of a fire in the area but figured the fire had a long way to travel before reaching her secluded mountain area.

Suddenly, she noticed considerable flames appearing behind a neighboring tower with dangerously loose wires. In a matter of minutes, the flames began to scatter and hastily cover a hill close to Fukuda’s property.

Fukuda immediately dialed 911 and when the firefighters and Sheriff’s deputies arrived, they gave her exactly five minutes to evacuate before her home would be completely consumed by the aggressive fire. She quickly entered her house and gathered her pets, their food, and a picture of her husband who recently passed. Fukuda loaded everything into her vehicle. While contemplating what to do and where to go, she witnessed several explosions capable of destroying her home. Fortunately, Fukuda did not sustain any physical injuries; however, she is grieving the loss of three of her dogs and six of her cats.

Fukuda quickly received support from family, friends, and neighbors who have felt her kindness and aid in the past. She ends her reflection on the tragic experience by graciously commenting, “I am always ready to help somebody, but when it reverses, it is a whole different feeling… you know how they say ‘pay it forward’ I think that this is my return.”

“I would like to express my sincere condolences to Ms. Fukuda and all the residents who lost their homes during the devastating Border 32 Fire. My heart and thoughts are with all who continue to recover”, said Supervisor Joel Anderson. “To anyone impacted by the fire, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office and we will do whatever we can to assist you.”