Real Survival Stories Escape Through the Blaze: Follow the Bobcat
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Jan 15, 2026 In this gripping discussion, journalist and author Sandra Younger shares her incredible survival story from the 2003 Cedar/Seed of Fire wildfire. She describes the chaos of evacuating her home as flames approach, aided by a mysterious bobcat that guides her through smoke. Sandra touches on the ecological factors behind the fire's ferocity and reflects on the emotional toll of loss. She also reveals her journey of rebuilding and how she now empowers others with her coaching, encouraging them to 'follow their bobcat' in times of adversity.
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Nighttime Blaze That Destroyed Terra Nova
- Sandra Younger and her husband woke to an advancing wildfire that reached their house in minutes at 3 a.m.
- They escaped with pets and a few photos after frantic evacuations as flames engulfed their home.
Moving To Terra Nova On The Hillside
- Sandra and Bob moved into a remote hilltop house named Terra Nova and loved the rugged landscape.
- They lived with two Newfoundland dogs and adjusted to limited access and occasional wildlife sightings like bobcats.
Chaparral's Natural Role And Modern Risk
- Chaparral is adapted to burn and needs periodic fires to regenerate, but prolonged drought left it dangerously dry.
- That ecological role doesn't prevent megafires when climate and conditions align.
