My cousins family in Ischia were buried under the rubble when three stories of their home collapsed due to an earthquake.

Alessia, who is five months pregnant with a much wanted daughter, got out first, unharmed. Dad Allessandro was thrown two metres in the air before the house came crashing down on him, fortunately he was saved between a car and a wall. He has a fractured arm and swelling to his head and face. After a quick trip to the hospital he returned to help the boys escape.

After 13 hours, 7 month old Pasquale was rescued from the rubble. He had been trapped in the kitchen and had just a few scratches and bruises.

Next out after 15 hours was Matias, 8 years old. he had minor injuries too.

After 17 hours under so much rubble, finally 11 year old Ciro, our hero was rescued. He had saved his brother Matias by pulling him under the bed!

Imagine the ordeal, your family are trapped under rubble, there is fear of a further earthquake. The rescuers have to work slowly and carefully so the whole place doesnt collapse further. It must have been terrifying for them all. the physical scars will heal faster than the mental ones.

The church found the family a home and furniture, the local people gave them clothes and food.

I am asking for money donations to help them get back on their feet. There is no insurance on the island, no sick pay. I have recieved many donations and have already passed them on, but if you would like to give it would be a great help for this miracle family.

My sister, her husband, their two sons, daughter in law and four grandchildren were in Ischia on holiday at the time, so they saw it first hand. They added to the donations and were able to give the family the donations I had received from family and friends.We are so grateful that they returned home safely.

Ciro our hero!

Thank you for reading this. If you are able to help it would be wonderful.