DIY VIRAL
Influencer Max Emerson and the groom Andrew Camillo lost their home in the Los Angeles fires, and the tragedy led to the end of their nearly decade-long relationship.
“After nine years together, we have decided to separate,” Emerson and Camilo wrote via a joint collaboration Instagram announcement on Monday, January 13, along with a series of pictures throughout their relationship. “The fire that took over our house accelerated this decision, giving us clarity and simplicity. We were already exploring different avenues, with this tragedy serving as a catalyst for a clean break.
The duo explained that they realized it was “time to start” their lives anew “as individuals”, but said they have no regrets about their years together.
“Our time together was not wasted,” they continued. “We still love each other completely, deeply and unconditionally. That love does not end; it evolves. We part with respect and gratitude, carrying on all that we have learned.
Emerson and Camilo discovered earlier this week that their home was one of the homes lost in the wildfires that began Jan. 7 in Los Angeles, when strong winds sent brushfires spreading rapidly through the Pacific Palisades and surrounding areas. Fires have destroyed. more than 12,000 structuresand more than 150,000 people issued mandatory evacuation orders.
That's when Emerson and Camilo took it upon themselves Instagram to find almost their entire neighborhood “burned to the ground,” but explained that they were safely in Utah for work.
“We're very grateful to be somewhere that feels safe right now,” Emerson said in a Jan. 10 video. Camilo added: “We feel a great sense of loss for everything in our homes, for everything our neighbors are going through. Everyone who has been displaced.”
While Emerson said they were both “grieving for our planet right now,” Camilo noted that they were also grieving the loss of all their personal belongings, including things like “art,” “photos” and other “valuable possessions.”
“We are filled with gratitude and a deep sense of loss,” Emerson captioned the post, promising to share more in the coming days because “the number of things to consider right now is overwhelming.”
Emerson returned Instagram on Jan. 11 to share a video of the couple's house in flames, as well as a photo carousel from happier times. He revealed that he and Camilo “completely renovated” the house “with the hope of starting our family.”
“Words cannot fully express the devastation we feel for all that was lost in less than twenty-four hours,” he captioned the post. “Despite some of our dreams being put on hold, we remain optimistic and excited about the future… and it's all because of the tsunami of love and support we receive from our family, friends and community. This is all very awesome, so please bear with us if we are not very communicative over the next couple of weeks. Thank you for always showing up for us. “
Emerson concluded the post by giving a shout-out to his neighbor who “did everything he could to save our house.”
DIY VIRAL
