Tina Perry, a League City woman, was clinging to a tree for five hours while waiting for rescue after a terrifying flood in Texas’ Hill Country. This incident occurred during a camping trip with her husband, Brad Perry, and has left Tina fighting for her life while her husband is still missing.
Her incredible survival story has captured the hearts of many, and the efforts of a local hero, Lauren Chevalier, who assisted her, demonstrate the true power of community during a crisis.
The Start of the Nightmare
Tina and Brad Perry had traveled to Kerrville in their new RV to enjoy a peaceful camping trip at HTR TX Hill Country RV Park & Campground. However, their peaceful vacation turned into a nightmare when flash floods struck the area.
The water levels quickly rose, flooding the campground and carrying Tina and Brad away in the raging currents. The couple became separated during the chaos, and Tina fought desperately to stay afloat.
Tina’s Fight for Survival
Tina Perry’s survival instincts kicked in immediately as she was swept away by the rushing floodwaters. With her hands raised above the water, she attempted to grasp anything that could save her. Tina made a defiant vow not to give up.
Her sister, Julia Schwenk Purnell, later stated, “I’m not going to die today.” Fighting the current, Tina found a tree about a half mile from the campground and climbed it, holding on as the floodwaters raged beneath.
The Heroic Rescue Effort
The area around the Perry campsite was eerily quiet as dawn broke on Friday morning, save for the roar of the river. Lauren Chevalier, who was nearby, heard a voice calling for assistance.
Lauren initially thought it was her brother calling out to their mother, but she soon realized it was Tina Perry, who was clinging to a tree about 15 feet in the air, trying to stay alive. Lauren called for help and waved to Tina, hoping to keep her spirits up while waiting for first responders.
Lauren’s quick actions and determination to assist Tina were not overlooked. Julia Purnell, Tina’s sister, later referred to Lauren as “an angel.” Lauren modestly insisted that anyone would have done the same, but her presence was undoubtedly critical to Tina’s survival.
Rescue and Recovery
When first responders arrived, Tina was helped out of the tree and guided to safety, despite the fact that the ordeal had taken its toll. She was bruised and scratched, with hypothermia, a punctured lung, and a torn lip.
Despite her injuries, Tina’s fighting spirit remained intact. She sent a thumbs up to her family from her hospital bed, hoping to be discharged soon.
A Family Left Waiting for Answers
While Tina’s survival is a miracle, the search for her husband, Brad, is ongoing. Brad Perry, a former League City volunteer firefighter, is still missing, and his family is concerned about his whereabouts.
Tina and her family have been cooperating with authorities by providing DNA samples and assisting in the search for Brad, but the outcome remains uncertain.
Tina’s Strength and Determination
Tina Perry’s remarkable survival can be attributed in part to her upbringing in Erie, Pennsylvania, which is known for its harsh winters. Her sister believes Tina’s ability to withstand the cold waters and overcome the flood’s challenges stems from the “Erie blood” that runs through her veins.
Tina’s courage and determination have left an indelible impression on her family and the community that has rallied around her in the aftermath of this disaster.
Tina Perry’s story of survival in the face of disaster is nothing short of incredible. Her battle against the floodwaters, her unwavering determination to live, and the assistance of local hero Lauren Chevalier demonstrate human resilience and the power of community.
As Tina recovers, her family maintains hope for Brad’s safe return, and they remain united in their search for answers.
