Grommesh famiy talks to the media. - Photo by Samantha Meyer Photography
As the fall sun started to sink behind the homes in south Moorhead Sunday evening, the Grommesh family gathered on their driveway to visit with local media for the first time since being ambushed Ty Pennington and crew Sunday morning. It’s the last time they’ll host a group at this house.
“It’s really surreal, overwhelming, humbling – I can’t even really describe it,” says Adair Grommesh.
Adair loved the way the show revealed that her family was the recipient of the make over: by surprising them at a Hope Inc. event, a foundation that is so close to the hearts of all four of them, including 9-year-old Garrett Grommesh.
“Words cannot describe what I’m thinking right now, words cannot describe what I’m feeling right now,” Garrett looked up in to the eyes of a reporter, completely comfortable with the number of cameras and microphones around him.
Everyone who meets Garrett, falls in love with his spirit the minute he speaks. And since he’s described as “never at a loss for words,” Garrett has many fans.
All of the family’s supporters and loved ones will have to wait a week to see them again. They’re hopping on a plane and heading out of town. When asked where the family would be, Garrett’s eyes lit up.
“The Bahamas!” he sang in a joyful tone with an ever-widening grin, hands folded neatly in his lap. His reaction surprised those who didn’t yet know his personality, leading to smiles and hearty laughs. It’s the family’s first vacation ever – the same week crews will be building them a beautiful, brand new, handicap accessible home.
“It’s a dream come true, it really is,” said Adair, tears welling up in her eyes. She looked down to briefly avoid the cameras and regain composure. Instinctively, Garrett reached up to comfort his mom.
Later, Daryl Braham, co-owner of Heritage Homes, put his arm around Adair. “It’s in good hands,” he said. “You’re gonna have a whole new life when you come back.”
And though the Grommesh family is the recipient, this process and the week of coming together is far reaching.
“We’re not just affecting one family, we are affecting 2-3,000 families,” said Tyrone Leslie, co-owner of Heritage Homes. “It’s about giving back to the community.”