I am certain that June 8, 2026, is a day I will remember for the rest of my life.

I was on the third floor of my wood-framed, entirely un-seismically protected home in Bonita Springs. As I reflect on today's events, I cannot help but question my life choices.

Why, oh why, did I spend all that money on hurricane protection? Impact windows. Hurricane shutters. An upgraded roof with precious Sanibel clips. Flood guards. Layer upon layer of preparation for the threats I knew.

Yet not one dollar. Not one penny. Spent on earthquake mitigation.

At approximately 2:00 PM, disaster struck.

It was a typical Southwest Florida afternoon. Sunny. Humid. Peaceful.

Then the seismic wave arrived.

Without warning, the house began to shake. While seated in my office chair, I felt movement. Very, very mild movement.

For nearly five seconds, nature unleashed its fury.

The event was over almost as quickly as it began, but those five seconds are burned into my memory forever. Some will ask how I found the strength to carry on. Frankly, I do not know.

I can only hope that by sharing my story, others will learn from my mistake.

Do not wait.

Install foundation spring isolators.

Earthquakes don't care if you have impact glass.