Community Support in Times of Crisis: Fire in North Vancouver

A devastating fire broke out at the International Plaza building on Marine Drive in North Vancouver on November 11th 2024, leaving many residents displaced. The fire, which started on the 18th floor, caused extensive damage to multiple units, leaving families homeless. Temporary shelters were provided for two weeks to those affected.

Sherry Soltani – Local Journalism Initiative

Among the residents was a cancer patient undergoing chemotherapy, whose life has been especially impacted by this tragedy.

Sherry has invited Noora Mahammadiyoun to share her story and shed light on the events surrounding this heartbreaking incident in North Vancouver.

Sherry asked Noora to recount what happened that day. In her own words, Noora described it as a devastating moment for everyone involved. She shared, “I even helped some residents make their way down the stairs.”

Noora's unit was directly across from the one that caught fire, putting her in close proximity to the flames. Fortunately, no one was injured, and all residents managed to evacuate safely to the parking lot. The fire department arrived promptly and worked tirelessly, taking approximately 25 minutes to bring the blaze under control.

Noora went on to explain how the situation unfolded for the displaced residents. While some were able to stay with family or friends, many had no such options. For those individuals, The management group of the International Plaza, with assistance from North Shore Emergency Management (NSEM), a government agency, arranged temporary hotel accommodations for displaced residents.

She shared, “We can stay here until November 27, after which we’ll be assigned a unit in the same building. However, we cannot retrieve most of our belongings because they were ruined in the fire.”

The challenges of displacement and loss have left many residents grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event.

Sherry then asked Noora if she could share more about her illness and how it has made an already challenging situation even more difficult.

Noora began by explaining that she is one of the residents without a unit in the building and must find a new apartment by November 27th. She shared, “I was renting a room from a lady, but her landlord has been given a smaller unit, so she can no longer accommodate me. Now, I have to find a new place to live, and it’s been incredibly hard.”

She revealed that about ten months ago, she was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer and is currently undergoing chemotherapy. The situation has been overwhelming, as her health requires stability, yet she is faced with the urgent need to secure housing.

Despite her positive attitude, Noora is navigating immense challenges, showing resilience in the face of such adversity.

In conclusion, Noora expressed her unwavering positivity and resilience. She said, “I am positive, and I know this will pass. In life, we never know what it will bring us.”

Despite her challenges, Noora emphasized her love for life and her determination to keep fighting. Her courage and optimism serve as an inspiration to those around her during this difficult time.