When Hurricane Milton tore through Florida, Sara Weldon and Rick Bass faced a heart-wrenching decision. Owners of a small farm in Clermont, central Florida, they were directly in the storm’s path, but leaving their beloved animals behind was unthinkable. Instead of evacuating to safety, the couple chose to stay, enduring the hurricane alongside their animals, including a sweet baby donkey named Cash. Here’s their inspiring story of resilience, love, and commitment.
Choosing to Stay: An Emotional Decision in the Face of Danger
As Hurricane Milton approached, officials urged Floridians to evacuate. But for Sara and Rick, their farm animals were more than just livestock—they were family. In an emotional video shared on social media, Sara explained their decision: “We are in the direct path of where this hurricane is supposed to hit. We’re not evacuating. And please, don’t ask me to.” Their attachment to their animals ran deep, making it impossible to consider leaving them behind in such a vulnerable moment.
This brave decision was met with a mix of support and concern from their followers on social media, who tuned in as Sara and Rick shared their storm experience. The couple’s posts on their page, Our Simple Homestead, documented each step of their journey, giving people a window into the difficult reality of staying behind to protect their farm.
Hunkering Down with Their Animal Family
With the storm bearing down, Sara and Rick turned their bedroom into a makeshift shelter. Baby donkey Cash joined them on the floor, creating a touching scene as he snuggled up beside them for comfort. Alongside Cash, their loyal dogs lay soaked from the rain but safely indoors, showing a united front in the face of adversity.
Sara and Rick’s efforts extended beyond Cash and the dogs. Their home became a sanctuary for dozens of animals, including chickens, horses, goats, and cats. Chickens were housed in cages, while the other animals found safe spaces inside the house, shielded from the brutal winds and heavy rain. This cozy yet chaotic scene of animals and humans huddling together embodied the deep bonds shared on this small farm.
Preparing for the Worst: Safeguarding the Farm Animals
Knowing the storm’s severity, Sara and Rick took every precaution to ensure their animals were safe. They fortified the barn, secured the animals inside, and stocked up on supplies before the storm hit. Horses and goats were brought indoors, finding refuge alongside their human caretakers. The couple’s dedication and preparation provided a sense of security amid the powerful gusts and torrential downpours raging outside.
Throughout the night, Sara and Rick posted updates, showing the resilience of their animal family. Followers witnessed the emotional journey, from moments of fear to heartwarming scenes of Cash resting peacefully beside them. This connection kept the couple going, knowing that their decision to stay was supported and admired by people across the country.
Hurricane Milton’s Devastating Impact on Florida
When Hurricane Milton struck Florida’s west coast, it left a path of destruction. The Category 4 storm brought catastrophic winds, storm surges, and widespread flooding. More than 3 million people lost power, and the damage to homes and infrastructure was extensive. Although Milton was downgraded to a Category 2 storm shortly after landfall, the impact was severe, especially for residents in low-lying areas who faced flooding and structural damage.
Sara and Rick’s farm was not spared from the storm’s effects. The couple experienced power loss early on, leaving them in darkness with only their animals for company. The winds howled around them as they waited out the storm, hoping their preparations would be enough to protect their home and farm.
The Morning After: Assessing the Damage and Prioritizing Safety
As dawn broke, Sara and Rick ventured out to assess the damage. Fallen trees, broken fences, and scattered debris greeted them. But thankfully, their animals had all made it through the storm safely. The couple’s careful planning and dedication had paid off, allowing them to keep their farm family together in the face of Hurricane Milton.
The road to recovery would be long, but their spirits remained unbroken. They shared updates with their followers, expressing gratitude for the support and well-wishes they’d received. Despite the hardships, Sara and Rick’s story became a beacon of hope, showing the resilience of those who stand by their loved ones—human or animal—even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges.
The Power of Community and Resilience
Sara and Rick’s decision to stay with their animals resonated deeply with people across social media. Messages of support poured in, with followers praising their bravery and dedication. Their story became a symbol of the unbreakable bond between caretakers and their animals, a testament to the lengths people will go to protect those they love.
In difficult times, communities often rally around stories of hope and resilience, and Sara and Rick’s experience was no exception. Their decision to stay, to protect their animals at all costs, reminded people of the importance of compassion, empathy, and loyalty.
Looking Ahead: Rebuilding After the Storm
In the days following Hurricane Milton, Sara and Rick began the process of cleaning up and rebuilding. Fences needed mending, fallen branches needed clearing, and supplies had to be restocked. Yet, even in the face of these daunting tasks, their gratitude remained. The animals they loved were safe, and their farm was still standing.
As the couple continues to share their journey, their story serves as an inspiration. Their resilience and commitment remind us of the strength that can be found in love, whether it’s for a baby donkey named Cash or the other animals that make up their farm family. Their decision to weather the storm with their animals by their side is a beautiful example of the deep connections that can exist between humans and animals.
Conclusion: A Story of Love and Dedication in the Face of Adversity
The story of Sara Weldon and Rick Bass during Hurricane Milton is one of love, resilience, and the power of family—whether human or animal. Their refusal to leave their animals behind, even in the face of a Category 4 hurricane, shows the depth of their commitment. Through their journey, they’ve inspired countless people, reminding us all of the beauty in standing by those we care for, even when it means facing the fiercest of storms.
In a world where quick evacuations are often the norm, Sara and Rick’s decision to stay is a reminder of the powerful bonds that connect us to those we care for. They chose love over safety, and in doing so, they became a beacon of hope and inspiration. As they rebuild their farm, they carry with them the support and admiration of everyone who followed their journey, proving that love can weather even the mightiest of storms.
