Katrina evacuees adjust to life in MetroWest...


	Katrina evacuees adjust to life in MetroWest...


	Submitted by admin on Tuesday, October 25, 2005 - 04:36
	The couple is one of six families that Ashland residents assisted after the hurricane hit Aug. 29. Residents donated housing, clothing, furniture and food. The former casino worker said she's decided to make Ashland her home now. "I want to get on my feet and get some stability and hopefully then a job," Russell said. Russell is studying phlebotomy at Mass. Bay Community College. She said she lost her medical records in the hurricane, so she's waiting to get the necessary shots to start her internship. The mother of three grown children and grandmother of five was a slot attendant on a casino riverboat in New Orleans. Regarding pursuing a degree, she said, "This is something I've always wanted to do." "Everything is working out," she said. Russell said she's able to attend class, and "A lot of people are being supportive." The New Orleans native said although she's adjusting to life up north, she's feeling homesick. "I have my bad days and my good days," Russell said. "I'm missing my family and plan to go out for Christmas, hopefully, if the weather will hold." Her family is spread across Texas and in Atlanta, she said. Her brother lives in St. Charles's Parish, La., and is the only relative to have returned to the state, she said. "It's very devastating for me," she said. "We were so closely knit." Her children lived with her in New Orleans. Now, "They're all trying to make a life for themselves. I'm proud of my children, but I'm also missing the heck out of them." Watching the news, and seeing the devastation of recent hurricanes has caused Russell to have flashbacks, Russell said. � Copyright of CNC and Herald Interactive Advertising Systems, Inc. This is cache, read story here [ login to post comments ]