SPOKANE CO., Wash. – Residents of Elk and Medical Lake commemorated the one-year anniversary of the devastating Gray Fire and Oregon Road Fire this past weekend.
In Medical Lake, those impacted by the Gray Fire gathered at Waterfront Park, the event filled with shared memories, laughter and tears.
The community has begun to heal and rebuild, but the emotions remain raw.
One resident expressed gratitude, saying, “It’s so nice to look out in the street every morning. Instead of seeing construction crews come in, to see our neighbors go to work.”
In Elk, another gathering took place on Saturday night to mark the anniversary of the Oregon Road Fire.
Residents reflected on the strength and resilience of their community over the past year.
“We just couldn’t be more grateful that so many people have actually helped us and how amazing our community really is,” said one attendee. “It is very touching and it makes me proud to be part of our community.”
These gatherings highlighted the solidarity and gratitude felt by those who have gone through unimaginable loss but are slowly rebuilding together.
