‘We lost everything’: Eden Park family homeless after tragic fire injures 2 young children
A blazing fire in Eden Park has left a grandmother without her home of 22 years and hospitalised two children. The family is appealing for urgent help from the public.
On the evening of May 11, at around 20:30, tragedy struck a quiet neighbourhood in Eden Park when a fire ripped through the home of the Brink family, leaving them homeless and severely injuring two young children.
Teeyagon Lucas, just nine years old, suffered serious burns to his head and back. His younger sister, five-year-old Teeyalin Lucas, was burned on her back and eyes. Both children are currently receiving treatment at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital.
Mrs Brink holding her granddaughter.
The fire started in the most innocent of ways when little Teeyalin was playing with matches on her mother’s bed when the mattress caught fire, quickly spreading to the ceiling and engulfing the house in flames.
Almost losing two young children for their grandmother, Lucinda Brink, the devastation runs deeper than words.
“I have also lost my home that I built over 22 years,” she said, with a painful tone. “I have no home insurance. Everything is gone.”
In a matter of minutes, the family lost not only their house but also all their possessions, clothes, essential documents, and the small comforts of a home built over decades.
They are currently staying with a kind neighbour who has offered them temporary shelter. Some compassionate members of the community have stepped in to help, offering clothing and blankets.
The company that Lusinda works for, Unitrans, along with her colleagues, provided food and clothes, giving the family some relief amid despair.
But the need is still urgent
“We are not asking for much; even building materials will help us so much. Whether big or small, your help will change our lives,” Lucinda pleaded.
The family’s immediate goal is to rebuild their garage as a place to sleep and start over. They are reaching out to the public with open hearts and a humble request for support.
Suppose you would like to support the Brink family during this heartbreaking time. In that case, you can donate using the details below: Capitec Bank, account holder: Mrs LRP Brink, account number: 1674547356 and your reference: Donations.
For more information, contact 0826 779 040.
Every contribution, no matter how small, brings this family one step closer to healing – and home.
