After a family lost everything they own in a house fire, a Bell County football coach has started a GoFundMe page to help them get back on their feet.
Rujuhnda Sparkman said Sunday began as a normal day for her family.
"I thought by me getting a head start on everything, cooking, washing, after church the children just could eat and we could go and do things that we do," said Sparkman.
She decided to prepare that meal before leaving her home.
"As we were cooking, grease popped out of the skillet on to the stove. Didn't have a fire extinguisher. I didn't have the baking soda," said Sparkman.
That normal day quickly turned into the family's worst nightmare when their Killeen home went up in flames.
"It was smoke at first and then we went to open up the door. I guess with the oxygen coming in, it just lit it up," said Sparkman.
The family ran out of the home and asked neighbors to call 911.
The home was a total loss and now the family of five is staying in a hotel.
"It's a little crowded, but we're making do. We're used to everybody just going to their own room and doing what they do," said Sparkman.
Cameron Sparkman's football coach, Steven Drayton, said the family is worth fighting for.
"We understand that when you're having to start over it's hard. And we want to show them that we're here for them," said Drayton.
Drayton started a GoFundMe page with a goal of $10,000 to help the family get a fresh start.
"For a community and just to come together like they did for people that they hardly know - it's a blessing," Sparkman said.
Sparkman added it is a miracle she and her family survived.
"I think it was God. It was God, you know. I put my faith in Him, everything. I think everything He does is for a purpose. And I'm just thankful we did survive," said Sparkman.
The GoFundMe page for the family which was started on Sept. 26, dubbed "Sparkman Family Relief" has raised almost $300.
Nolanville Cowboys Youth Football and Cheer is also taking donations for the family in the form of clothes, blankets, household goods and more.
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