BARNSLEY, Ky. (WEHT) – Surviving the 2021 tornado in Kentucky prompted the build of a storm shelter, which saved a family’s lives during Sunday’s deadly storms.

Kendra VanVactor was 34 weeks pregnant during 2021’s tornado that ripped through Dawson Springs and other parts of the area. Living through that was enough to build a storm shelter, to ensure she and her family would have a safe place to go, should this happen again.

VanVactor says as she and her family hunkered down in the shelter, she prayed, asking for three things. She recalls asking for protection of her family, her home, and her pool, “my pride and joy.”

Miraculously, as other pieces of her home were destroyed, like their car port, her pool was untouched. She says, “God has a sense of humor”.

VanVactor recognizes how blessed they are, with minimal damage compared to others just down the road. She said she’s giving back to her community and helping where she can, by handing out food and drinks through her local YMCA.

For those who need assistance, the Hopkins County Family YMCA is allowing people to use their showers, use charging stations, and have meals at their facility until further notice.