LIFE changed in minutes for a Cowies Hill family who helplessly witnessed their beloved home and memories going up in flames last Tuesday.

House owner Sameera Safla said their worst nightmare unveiled in the early hours of the morning.

The family is devastated after their three-bedroom home was severely damaged and everything inside was reduced to ashes.

Also read: Man dies after Malvern house fire

“It was four in the morning, and we were sleeping when we heard a light bulb bursting and then the dogs barking. My husband woke up to check what was happening and felt a hot wave above his head – the roof was already on fire.

“He shouted for me to get our 15-month-old baby boy and get out of the house.”

Looking at the damage, Safla sighed and said that their whole life is gone.

“We couldn’t even take anything out of the house. My heart is sore; it is terrible to see everything that you have worked hard for for years destroyed in minutes. All our memories and hard work turned into ashes,” she said.

For years, Safla said she and her husband struggled to have children and recently had their first child through In vitro fertilization (IVF).

“We had our seven dogs who are like our children. We also had to get them to safety, and we are grateful that they were not hurt,” she said.

The family conveyed their gratitude to everyone who assisted.

“We would also like to thank the fire department who responded and contained the fire which was spreading all over. Even though we lost everything, we are grateful to be alive.”

They appealed for assistance as their insurance will only just fix the structure.

“We also shared the home with my two nieces, a 16- and a 13-year-old, who also lost most of their school items. The two attend Westville Girls’ High School,” she said.

Anyone who can assist the family can contact Safla on 082 314 8962.

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