Family Displaced by Fire 'Doing OK'

Gracious in the face of adversity, Muhammed Gheith says his family is going okay Tuesday evening.

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“We are at a hotel,” Gheith said. “We’re trying to find a house to move too.”

The family lost most of their belongings, including their clothes. Gheith’s wife went shopping on Wednesday to buy such essentials as shoes and socks.

“I’m wearing a brand new shirt, new pants, and new shoes,” Gheith said.

Dramatic photos taken by the upon firefighters’ arrival show the Gheiths’ home engulfed in flames. The family of three escaped without any injuries, and even had time to grab their pet cockatiel Pee Wee, who is being cared for by a neighbor.

Oak Lawn Fire Chief George Sheets said that Gheith told him how humbled he was with the offers of assistance from the village and residents, but insisted on paying for family’s hotel accommodations on his own.

“Mr. Gheith even refused to accept assistance from the Red Cross and insisted that he pay his hotel say at the Hilton on his own,” Sheets said in an email. “Mr. Gheith told me that he has been in this community for over 15 years, and came to this country with only $75.00 in his pocket; he is overwhelmed by the support of the village and total strangers.  He said what matters is that his family is alive and well, the other things can be replaced.” 

About 40 firefighters from Crestwood, Bedford Park, Evergreen Park, Burbank and Justice helped battle the blaze assisted the Oak Lawn Fire Department in battling the blaze.

“All the firefighters on scene did an excellent job given the circumstances,” the fire chief said.  “At this time, we have not determined the point of origin, however, the investigation continues.”

Gheith said that his insurance carrier said it would take approximately six months to repair the house. He’s already talked to an architect and contractor to begin rebuilding his house.

The night of the fire, Commissioner Sue Murphy also found the family sitting in their car.

“I asked if they needed any assistance and they said ‘thank you, but no. We’ll be okay,’” Murphy said. “They are very nice people and thankful for all the help and assistance being offered … but at this time they are just looking for housing.”

Gheith would like to find a rental in , where his son will be attending high school this fall.

If anyone knows of a house or condo for rent in Oak Lawn, please contact Lorraine at lorraine.swanson@patch.com, and we’ll pass on the information to Muhammed.

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