By NFLS
Naples Resident Says She Feels Blessed to Have Survived the Many Hurricanes Since 1983
Eighty-year-old Evelyn Reed has called Naples home since 1983. In that time, she’s weathered more hurricanes than most residents can recall, a testament to both her resilience and the unpredictable nature of Southwest Florida’s storm season. From the relatively minor squalls to the devastating blows, Evelyn has seen it all, and her perspective on surviving these powerful storms offers a unique insight into the community’s enduring spirit.
A Lifetime of Storms
“I remember Hurricane Charley in 2004 vividly,” Evelyn recalls, sitting on her porch overlooking the Gordon River Greenway, the calming waters a stark contrast to the chaotic memories she evokes. “The wind was ferocious, the rain relentless. We lost power for weeks, and the damage to our neighborhood was significant. Trees were down everywhere, and the roads were impassable.” Charley, while not directly impacting Naples with its strongest force, still caused widespread damage throughout Collier County.
But Charley wasn’t Evelyn’s first brush with a hurricane. “We had a few before that, smaller ones, nothing like Charley. But each one taught a lesson,” she continues. “You learn to prepare. You learn what’s truly important. And you learn to appreciate the calm after the storm.” This preparation extended beyond securing her home; it involved creating a robust support network with her neighbors, a crucial element in navigating the aftermath of any significant hurricane.
Her experience navigating Hurricane Irma in 2017, a storm that brought widespread flooding and power outages across the region, further solidified her preparedness strategies. “Irma was a different beast entirely,” she remembers. “The sheer scale of the storm, the prolonged power outages… it really tested everyone. But the community spirit was incredible. We helped each other, shared food, and just generally looked out for one another. That’s something Naples does incredibly well.”
Ian, in 2022, is another defining memory. While Evelyn’s home miraculously survived relatively unscathed, the devastation across the city and the county was unlike anything she had previously experienced. “Seeing the destruction on Vanderbilt Beach Road, the damage to businesses along Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South… it was heartbreaking,” she admits. “But even then, you saw the same spirit of resilience and community support emerge. People were helping each other, clearing debris, supporting their neighbors. It’s what makes Naples so special.”
Lessons Learned and Community Spirit
Evelyn’s experiences have shaped not only her own approach to hurricane preparedness but also her perspective on the community’s response. She emphasizes the importance of several key aspects:
- Early preparation: “Don’t wait until the last minute. Have your emergency kit ready months in advance. Stock up on non-perishable food, water, batteries, and any medications you need.”
- Community connection: “Know your neighbors. Help each other. Check on elderly or vulnerable individuals. A strong community is crucial during and after a hurricane.”
- Patience and resilience: “Recovery takes time. Be patient with yourself and your community. Focus on what you can control, and be grateful for what you have.”
- Supporting local businesses: “After a hurricane, supporting local businesses is vital for the economic recovery of Naples. Spend your money locally to help them rebuild and thrive.”
Evelyn’s commitment to her community extends beyond hurricane preparedness. She’s a regular visitor to the Naples Botanical Garden, enjoys strolling along the Naples Pier, and often frequents the shops and restaurants in the Mercato Shops area. She actively participates in community events in the Naples Art District and even enjoys attending lectures at the FAU campus. These activities, she says, contribute to her sense of belonging and enrich her life in a way that transcends the challenges posed by annual hurricane seasons.
Looking Ahead
While Evelyn expresses gratitude for having survived these numerous storms, she acknowledges the anxieties that accompany hurricane season. She understands the ever-present threat, but her focus remains on preparation and community support. “I’ve seen the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity,” she says, gazing out at the tranquil Gordon River Greenway. “And that’s a testament to the resilience of Naples and its people.”
Her story is not just about surviving hurricanes; it’s about the enduring spirit of a community that has weathered many storms, both literally and figuratively. It’s about the power of neighbors helping neighbors and the unwavering commitment to rebuilding and recovery. Evelyn’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of preparation, community solidarity, and the unyielding spirit of Naples in the face of nature’s fury. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of devastation, hope and resilience can bloom stronger than ever.
Evelyn’s experience at Tin City during a storm further solidified her understanding of the vulnerability of coastal communities and the importance of consistent preparation.
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