Laurie McCannon lived in a little house not far from Houston that she shared with her husband Timothy and a small Jack Russell-Maltese mix named OP.

“Just like in the Andy Griffith show his name stands for Octavius Preston. He looks like a raggamuffin,” said Laurie.

Andy Griffith was a very popular show that ran for eight seasons between 1960 and 1968 and one of Laurie’s favorites.

As the rain was forecast to hit Montgomery County back in January, Laurie was nervous that her home would be damaged. When the torrential rains came, they did not just have a small leak, but a complete gush of water came down from the roof and began to flood their home. Laurie, Tim, and OP found themselves quickly in a foot of water all through the house. Their mattress was saturated and there was not a spot dry in the house. With nowhere to go they had to seek shelter elsewhere.

Laurie, Tim, and OP found a temporary home at the Lone Star Community shelter operated by the American Red Cross. It would be their home for the next week. Not only were Laurie and Tim welcome, but so was OP, which was a huge relief for Laurie.

“They gave him a kennel, so he didn’t have to worry about the big dogs,” said Laurie. “He charmed all of them and won their hearts. He didn’t even have to bat those big, brown eyes, all he had to do was wag his tail and they were hooked. They went above and beyond for us.”

OP and his family were guest at our Lone Star Community shelter after their home flooded.

Laurie and her husband were very grateful for the shelter team that was there to help them during this hard time.

“If me or Tim needed anything the ladies there would get it for us,” said Laurie. “They came in and checked on us throughout the night. They made sure OP felt safe and wasn’t abandoned.”

Laurie shared that she is agoraphobic and does not do well with crowds or tight spaces but was very happy and comfortable in the shelter because there was enough space between the beds where she did not feel crowded.

“Hats off to all of the volunteers and thank you to all so very much,” said Laurie.

The American Red Cross is there to help during times of crisis. Nine out of 10 Red Cross workers are volunteers. Our volunteers provide a safe shelter, hot meals, snacks, water, emergency kits and a warm hug for those that need it the most. Volunteers provide emotional support and are always ready to listen when you are going through a hard time. They truly help those in need on the road to recover. If you would like to be part of this amazing volunteer team and make a difference in someone’s life sign up at redcross.org/Texas.

Story By; Francisco Philibert