Imagine the shock of finding bats in your home. For Isaiah and Monica Grant, this nightmare became a reality when they discovered a bat invasion in their rental property in Ardsley Park, Georgia. The situation became so dire that the family had to leave their home due to an imminent health risk according to the Georgia Department of Public Health.
The ordeal began on January 18 when the Grants spotted a bat inside their house. But things quickly escalated as more bats began to swarm inside. Monica recalled, “Three bats came flying down the stairs while we were sitting in our living room. They started coming through the vents. The kids were already asleep.” It was a terrifying experience for the family.
In response to the bat invasion, the family made the tough decision to move in with a neighbor for the time being. The property manager, Cathleen Barela, assured them that the issue was being addressed, and steps were being taken to remove the bats from the property.
However, the Grants continue to face inconveniences as a result of their unexpected predicament. They were advised to get immediate rabies shots, which they had to pay for out of pocket. Bats are known to carry rabies, and it is a serious and potentially deadly disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that bats are a leading cause of rabies-related deaths in the United States.
“There is no treatment for rabies. Either you get the vaccine, or you face the risk of death,” Monica expressed her concern. The family is also saddled with growing medical bills and the need to find a new home. In light of this, they have started a GoFundMe page to seek assistance from the community.
Despite the difficult situation they find themselves in, there is a glimmer of hope for the Grants. The overwhelming support from the community has been heartwarming, and they have been offered a furnished townhouse to use temporarily.
In Georgia, there are 16 different species of bats. While most bats do not carry rabies, it is impossible to determine if they are carriers without proper testing in a laboratory. This underscores the importance of taking quick action, as the risk of rabies is a serious health concern.
As the Grants continue to navigate this challenging chapter in their lives, they are grateful for the support they have received. The temporary safe haven provided by the community gives them the opportunity to breathe and plan their next steps forward.
