Teen suffers CSEC setback after fire flattens house

On Sunday, Akayla Rhudd, who is currently studying for her CSEC exams, took a break to have fun with her family at a river in Portland.

Sadly, a call to her mother turned her world upside down.

Teisha Stewart, Rhudd's mother, told THE STAR that she got a call informing her that her house in Hermitage, St Andrew, was on fire.

Rhudd, who is 17, had all her books with her notes at home. She said that she started to prepare for her exams but is now left with nothing as no one was able to save anything in the house.

She said that she has hopes of becoming a lawyer and doing well in CSEC was just a stepping stone. The teen, who did some subjects last year, is going to undertake four more.

"I think I remember enough, hopefully. Certain subjects like English and social studies, I am okay with, but history and definitely mathematics I don't really remember anything. I contacted one of my friends from history class and asked if they could send back the notes from September and they said yes. I would have to go to school and get the information for social studies and mathematics though," she said.

She admitted that she was worried about how she would pass her exams.

"But in God I put my trust cause He will work out everything for me," she said.

Stewart said that the family went on a trip with other friends to have a relaxing Sunday but about 10:50 a.m., she got the call that changed her life.

"As me tek off mi clothes so, mi never even go inna the water yet, mi get a phone call seh mi house is on fire," she said.

Stewart said she lost everything and as much as they are trying to be positive, her daughter is facing a great challenge.

"I know she is worrying but we are trying to stay positive for her. I know that she is going to pull through," she said.

She added: "It (the house) burn so bad that the concrete structure have a whole heap a crack on it from the top go straight down the bottom. Me and my children were able to sleep in our extended family's house next door and we are grateful."

She told THE STAR that the source of the fire is unknown but persons told her that they saw smoke coming from her room.

She said that she was told that by the time people recognised what was happening, the house was engulfed and there was no way to gain access to try and save anything.

Stewart said she is stressed because the rebuilding process may take years.

"Wi know things nah go come same time ... so wi just affi keep the faith. Even my spouse a seh it a go alright so me a try remain upbeat," she said.

Anyone who is able to help Teisha Stewart and her family get back on their feet is asked to call her at 876-428-6990.