This is a story about the remarkable courage of a very senior citizen. Her name is Ettiemae Johnson, exact age unknown, but by her own reckoning, at least 100.

When Katrina hit Ettie was awaiting her granddaughter to come get her and the two very young children Ettie was watching for her. One toddler of 18 months, the other, 8 months old. Also, Ettie's old Rat Terrier, Elmer, himself a valiant hero in this story. Events prevents the granddaughter from reaching them in time.

So Ettie bundled the children into her cellar, which she kept well stocked with storm provisions. She had even included some baby food. The cellar, however, rapidly proved to be a dangerous place. Cautiously Ettie moved the babies to the attic, then began hauling her horded supplies up the four flights of stairs. All the while the water is rising, eventually reaching a depth of two feet on the ground floor.

Ettie had not managed to get everything out of the basement, but a little of everything. The roof had been partly blown away, otherwise, the house remained solidly together.

Ettie now faced a new problem, rats, many of the rodents seeking shelter entered her house, they tried getting into her stores. Both Ettie and Elmer were kept very busy for several days fending off these rodents. Their defense was successful. But, alas, poor Elmer eventually succumbed to his numerous bites. He lived long enough to be rescued. The vets had hoped to save him, but at 22 years of age this valiant defender of humankind was too weak, and succumbed to his wounds in Ettie arms.

Ettie and her brood were the very first success we had, within hours after we were in operation. We were sent by pleas from the panicked granddaughter to the proper location. Life was found, and rescue successful. Everyone, except Elmer, are now back in the arms of their loving family.

This information comes to me second-hand from our group leader, as part of his way to show appreciation for our help. He is a native of New Orleans himself.

More to follow.