The Bordelons

10 years ago, Hurricane Katrina devastated parts of New Orleans. In some areas water rose to 14 feet above the ground level inundating houses and buildings and wrecking many of them. According to estimates, at the low end about 1,300 people died but there were probably many more unaccounted for or who died as a result of the storm. One of the families who was affected was the Bordelons. Don and Colleen Bordelon lived on Schnell Drive in Arabi which is adjacent to the Lower 9^th Ward and this area was very badly affected with most of the houses being destroyed.

Following the tragedy, NPR visited the family on regular occasions to find out how they were fairing. These regular updates were broadcast on the Morning Edition Show. Don Bordelon’s voice was rich and his attitude was positive even in the face of such hardship and distress. Colleen’s mother survived the storm but died soon after from the effects of the storm. As they slowly and painfully rebuilt their lives, the Bordelons epitomized the spirit of fortitude. Sadly, Don Bordelon died on 21^st January 2010. So on the fifth anniversary of his passing, MAC wanted to go and visit the family and bring some flowers in memory of Don and his uplifting broadcasts.

We picked up flowers at a shop on Royal Street and took a cab with a friendly and helpful driver named Mohammed and went to Schnell Drive and to the rebuilt house of the Bordelons. When we arrived there, Don’s mother was there and we delivered the flowers and stopped to chat for a while. We also met Colleen’s sister in law Tina from next door. We had a very nice talk and then we were told that Colleen was working at the Chevron gas station a couple of blocks away so we set off for there and finally met Colleen who was a warm and wonderful person and one of the best huggers I have ever met!!!!

We talked and she told us just how high the water had risen and how they had managed to survive. Unfortunately, tragedy has followed them and Don’s brother had recently died and other family members have not all fared well. The fall-out for the storm which was in 2005, is still with us and many houses have not been rebuilt, much of the money has still not been paid by the Federal Government. Many are still suffering but it was heartening to hear about the Bordelons, who through it all seem to have maintained a cheerful and optimistic outlook. This is not easy but it is inspiring to learn of them and have the privilege of meeting them. They are a shining example and a great reminder to those of us who have a lot that some are less fortunate but make the most of their lives.

 

Colleen and me at her work at the Chevron Station

Can you believe that during the hurricane the water came up to the blue line on the gas station awning above Colleen's head?

MAC and Colleen

Don's Mom

We left Colleen with a big hug and hope that life treats her well in the future. She has had hardship enough and it is time for her and her family’s fortunes to turn.