FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. — A ring camera captured the moment Hurricane Ian tore through a vacation home on Estero Boulevard, and the family who owned it is still feeling the loss years later.
Luanne Keim’s family had owned the cottage for 25 years, using it for gatherings and celebrations over the decades.
“We had all of our family get-togethers there. You know all the fun parties, all the little birthday parties,” Keim said.
When she finally made it back to the island after the storm, almost nothing remained.
“We walked up on it, and the only thing really that was left were some brick pavers that was at the bottom of the stairs. But even the pilings were gone. I mean, there was nothing, nothing left,” Keim said. “It’s just sad because you know that nothing will ever be the same.”
She brought photos of the devastation to show what she found when she returned.
Keim eventually sold the lot, knowing she would not rebuild. But she said letting go of the property did not mean letting go of her love for the area.
“I love it. I mean, I will always love Fort Myers Beach. I love Margaritaville. You know, that whole area,” she said.
She has watched Fort Myers Beach rebuild and said she is glad to see some of the places she loved return.
“I’ve been in this area, Fort Myers, for 52 years. So, yeah, I hope it never happens again,” Keim said.