Middlebury, Connecticut – Nelba Marquez-Greene, mother of Ana Grace Marquez-Greene, a 6-year-old victim of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, is enduring fresh heartache after recent flooding devastated her home in Middlebury. The flood, which caused over $100,000 in damage, destroyed cherished items that once belonged to Ana Grace, deepening the emotional scars left by her tragic loss in 2012.
Nelba Marquez-Greene shared the pain of losing these treasured possessions, saying, "The piano that she played, she played ‘Come, Thou Almighty King,’ had to be chopped up by a chainsaw, and it currently sits in that dumpster outside. All of her books, all of her outfits, all of our memories are in a dumpster.”
The flooding has also underscored the need for improved disaster preparedness and climate change mitigation in Connecticut. Nelba is advocating for state leaders to expedite relief efforts and insurance payments to help affected families recover more swiftly. “We need more from the state of Connecticut,” she emphasized, reflecting the frustration and desperation of her community.
Friends and supporters have rallied around Nelba in this difficult time. Terri Eickel posted on Facebook, urging friends, especially those connected to Hartt School, to consider supporting Nelba and her husband, Jimmy Greene, as they navigate this challenging period. "They lost a lot of beloved mementos of Ana Grace, plus insurance isn’t going to cover the damage because it is considered an act of God. I donated, if anyone is also moved to help out, I’m sure it would be very appreciated. Also, prayers for their family and all the families affected would be great."
As the Marquez-Greene family continues to cope with the aftermath of this disaster, the community’s support remains crucial in helping them rebuild and heal from yet another devastating blow.