Debi and Jeff Brusatori were forced to evacuate their home after fires threatened to engulf the land around them in Hayfork, California. While fleeing to safer ground, something tragic happened: their cat, Ruthie Rosemary, leapt from the car window in a panic and had to be left behind. The fires were quickly approaching, and there was no time to go back for their precious pet.
When they were allowed to return to their property five days later, the Brusatoris found the area badly burned. They'd lost nearly everything.
While surveying their many losses, the family suddenly heard something from under a burnt-out truck: a meow.
Facebook / U.S. Forest Service - Shasta Trinity National Forest
Though the truck was burned badly enough that its aluminum was melted, Ruthie Rosemary somehow made it out with nothing more than some singed whiskers.
Facebook / U.S. Forest Service - Shasta Trinity National Forest
The family was happily reunited.
Facebook / U.S. Forest Service - Shasta Trinity National Forest
Facebook / U.S. Forest Service - Shasta Trinity National Forest
(via Lost Coast Outpost)
Ruthie Rosemary's survival is downright miraculous when you consider the intensity of the blaze. The Brusatoris are rebuilding their lives, but they feel grateful to have their cat alive and well.