ZIONVILLE, N.C. — After Helene hit Watauga County, George and Penny Keistler spent nearly a week without power.
The storm devastated the roads into their community, leaving them trapped.
"The darkness was the worst, not being able to see," Penny said.
But in that darkness, both of them found hope.
"I believe, with all my heart, God was showing just a little bit of his power," said George.
The two are grateful they were rescued by their children and a few volunteers on ATVs after six days. They are now staying with their son at his home in Indian Trail.
But for someone with Multiple Sclerosis, Penny says that's six days too long without air conditioning.
"Sometimes I even lose vision if it gets too hot," Penny said. "God was so good. It stayed so cold in the house. What a blessing it was."
That cold also helped save George's insulin pens.
"We had thousands of dollars' worth of insulin pens in our refrigerator, and we had take all them out and bring them down here," said George.
According to George, the VA tells him his insulin is good for a few more weeks. Penny relies on medicine to keep manager her symptoms. Her refill was set to arrive the day the storm hit, leaving her with just a few days worth of medicine.
"Well, it's scary, you know, at times to think about can't get your medicines," George said. "We've had to have medicines called in down here because couldn't get it from up there."
Even with the uncertainty of their next shipment, both remain positive.
"We still have Him to lean on," George added.
Penny also is without her walker and motorized chair, leaving her to rely on her cane until they can get back.
They plan to return on Friday and have hope that Penny's medicine will be there.