UPDATE: A heartwarming story unfolds in Altadena, California, as Ted Koerner successfully rebuilds his home just in time to spend precious moments with his beloved golden retriever, Daisy Mae. After losing everything in the devastating 2025 wildfires, Koerner prioritized his furry companion’s comfort in a race against time.
In a remarkable turnaround, Koerner completed construction on his new home in just over four months, allowing him to return to a familiar environment with Daisy Mae before her health deteriorated. He faced an urgent situation, as the wildfire claimed the lives of 31 people and thousands of homes, forcing Koerner and Daisy Mae to evacuate with nothing but a few belongings.
The emotional journey began when Koerner fled with Daisy Mae, then 12 years old, as flames engulfed their neighborhood. They spent weeks in a hotel, grappling with uncertainty while trying to maintain some semblance of normalcy by going for walks amidst the devastation.
Koerner’s determination to rebuild was fueled by the fear of losing Daisy Mae before he could restore their home. “If she passes, I don’t want to come here,” he told his mortgage servicing company, emphasizing Daisy Mae’s special place in his life. He sold nearly all his retirement savings to expedite the rebuilding process.
When Koerner first brought Daisy Mae back to the site of their new home, the sight of her exploring the framed structure brought him to tears. “She walked right over to where the front door was supposed to be and smiled,” he recalled. It was a moment of relief and joy amidst the chaos.
The new home stands proudly next to a 175-year-old Heritage Oak, a cherished part of their yard that survived the fire. Koerner’s efforts were not just about rebuilding a house; they were about creating a sanctuary for Daisy Mae in her twilight years.
With the construction complete as of December 11, 2025, Koerner expressed immense gratitude for being back home with Daisy Mae. “I went into the house and cried a lot,” he shared, reflecting on how the experience has changed him.
This story resonates deeply as it underscores the profound bonds between humans and their pets, showcasing resilience and love in the face of tragedy. As communities continue to recover from the wildfires, Koerner and Daisy Mae’s journey inspires others to cherish and protect the relationships that matter most.
Stay tuned for more uplifting stories as they emerge from the ashes of tragedy, showcasing the human spirit’s resilience.
