In the wake of the devastating L.A. area wildfires, many companies have rallied to provide support to 30 firefighters who suffered incredible losses, including 10 whose homes burned to the ground. Among those stepping up in a big way -the Helpful SoCal Honda Dealers. As the affected communities continue to heal and begin to move forward, LAFD Firefighter Paramedic Inspector II John Stuhlman and his wife Monica Stuhlman found a reason to celebrate. Watch to see how a quick errand turned into an unforgettable, joyous, and surprising day.
John Stuhlman, a firefighter, paramedic, and Inspector II for Los Angeles City Fire, is also a Marine veteran. He and his wife Monica had lived in their Altadena home for nearly 20 years, but now only the chimney remains standing. “It’s just hard we’ve lost everything,” said Monica Stuhlman. “Every single thing we owned we’ve lost.”
SoCal Honda Unexpected Acts of Kindness
The Stuhlman’s received an unexpected call from the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighter’s Fund inviting them to come by and pick up some gifts. Little did they know, the real surprise waiting for them and their dog Winston was beyond their wildest dreams. “To help bring somebody closer to some normalcy after an event like this is just awesome” said President and LAFD Captain II Chris Stine, who was there to witness this special moment.
Once the Stuhlman’s arrived at the location with their dog Winston in tow, the Helpful Honda Team kept the secret under wraps until it was time to reveal the surprise. “It’s our job to be helpful. It’s what we do. We want to help the community” said Zuly Tellez – Helpful Honda Team.
A Step Towards Healing
John and Monica were overcome with emotion as they were gifted a brand-new Honda CR-V, courtesy of the SoCal Helpful Honda Dealers. “This is very humbling. I’ll never forget this,” said John Stuhlman. Coincidentally, it was also John’s birthday, a day he hadn’t felt like celebrating earlier. While this doesn’t replace everything they lost, they said it is a significant step toward healing.
As for their dog Winston, it looks like he might have a future as the Helpful Honda Mascot. “He brings that calm energy, we know Monica loves him and we might talk with her and steal him for a commercial or two,” said Zuly Tellez.
John, Monica, and their dog Winston are currently staying with close friends as they work to rebuild their lives. “We wouldn’t be here or have the strength if it wasn’t for them,” said Monica. Despite the challenges, they remain hopeful and optimistic about the future.
By Mari Monge