We’re Jorge and Debbie. Because our friend isn’t able to share his story, we’re sharing it on his behalf.

Howard Armstrong and his wife, Lynn, were in the direct path of Hurricane Dorian near Freeport in the Bahamas. Tragically, Lynn did not survive the storm. It is assumed she was swept away by the storm surge and drowned. Only days ago, Howard was faced with the unthinkable task of having to identify her body after it was recovered weeks after the storm.

In Freeport, where the damage was greatest, Howard and Lynn were holed up in their home. The water was coming in and they were attempting to protect whatever they could by putting items on top of cabinets, countertops, the stove, and whatever else was above the level of the water. Their pets as well were floating on mattresses. But when the 200 MPH winds began ravaging the area, things changed dramatically.

Howard actually swam outside for only a moment to see if there was a way to escape the surge, perhaps there was someone outside to help. However, the storm was too powerful so he swam back inside. Sadly, in that brief instant, Lynn was gone — apparently overcome by the raging waters. After realizing he may have been next, Howard managed to get to his nearby fishing boat and climbed aboard. A small cuddy cabin was his lifeline, and remains so today. Nearly all of his personal belongings are gone with the exception of his small boat, which sustained significant damage, and a cell phone — his only link to the outside world.

We feel Howard is more than worthy to win this RV. He’s been through just about as much as any human can stand.