We’re Not Going Back – A Family’s Resolve After Devastating Flood
A family from Wigan vows to never return to their flood-damaged home after a harrowing New Year’s Day rescue
Wigan, UK, Flood, Community, Emergency Services, JustGiving
Wigan: A family had a wild start to the New Year when they were rescued from their flooded home. Michael Abram, his wife Stacy, and their three kids had to float to safety in a dinghy as water surged over four feet deep in their neighborhood.
Sadly, the flood ruined their kids’ Christmas gifts, but firefighters managed to save the ashes of Michael’s parents, who had passed away recently. After the rescue, the family found temporary shelter in a nearby McDonald’s and later moved to a hotel. Now, they’re staying in a temporary home in Ince while figuring out their next steps.
Michael, 46, is adamant about not returning to their old place on Templeton Road. He mentioned that the area had flooded before, and he’s not willing to risk it happening again. The family is settling into their temporary digs, and the kids are back at school, including Jake, who has autism and goes to a special school in Atherton.
Michael grew up in Platt Bridge and knows the community well. He appreciates the support from neighbors but insists they won’t be moving back since their house was rented. They’re now on the lookout for a new place to call home.
Meanwhile, the houses on Templeton Road are still dark as families are displaced. Local MP Josh Simons has set up a JustGiving page to help the 20 affected families, and it’s already raised nearly £3,000. He expressed gratitude for the community’s strength and the efforts of emergency services.
Community champion Alison Prescott has also stepped in, raising £540 for the Abram family through GoFundMe. She highlighted the family’s struggles and urged people to donate, especially since the kids lost all their Christmas presents. Every little bit helps to make their lives a bit brighter.