When the tornado tore through Laurel County, Kentucky, Paul and Gail Cline held on to each other with all their strength. But the winds were too strong — and while their grip never loosened, the storm ripped off each of their opposite arms. Now, both are in critical condition, facing intense treatment and recovery, and their family is praying for a miracle.
What happened to Paul and Gail isn’t just a heartbreaking love story — it’s a powerful reminder of how life can change in seconds. The cost of trauma care, long-term rehab, and emergency insurance claims will be overwhelming. Their story has touched thousands, and a GoFundMe has been launched to help them through the long road ahead.
A Storm That Changed Everything
Last Friday, deadly tornadoes struck southeastern Kentucky, leaving unimaginable destruction behind. Among the victims were Paul and Gail Cline, a couple in their 60s who lived in the same home for generations.
As winds howled, they locked arms inside their bedroom — and never let go.
“They were holding each other when it hit,” said their niece Brandy Bowman. “The tornado ripped off each of their opposite arms. They didn’t let go — even when everything else was being torn away.”
When a neighbor heard their cries for help, he rushed in and pulled them from the wreckage. What he found was devastating: Paul and Gail lying among debris, their bodies shredded but still side by side.
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Gail on Life Support, Paul in Shock
Gail’s injuries were especially severe. In addition to losing her arm, she suffered broken ribs and both lungs were punctured by debris. She is now on a ventilator and in a medically induced coma, while doctors attempt to stabilize her condition.
“She’s fighting for her life,” said niece Taylor Baker. “And Paul… he’s lost an arm, he’s in shock, and with his dementia, he doesn’t fully understand what happened.”
Paul’s dementia makes treatment planning even more complex. Doctors say the couple will require extensive rehabilitation, ongoing mental health support, and possibly long-term assisted living care — all of which come at enormous cost.
Their Dog Never Left
As if the story couldn’t be more touching, their 12-year-old dog Sadie went missing during the storm — only to be found later, waiting quietly in the remains of their bedroom.
“She was lying right where they were pulled from,” said Bowman. “Waiting for them to come back.”
Generations of Memories Lost
The Clines’ home had been in the family for decades. It’s where Paul and Gail raised their children, hosted birthdays, holidays, and Sunday dinners.
But now, it’s just rubble. Their two cars were crushed, and almost everything they owned is gone.
“My whole childhood is in that house,” said Taylor Baker. “We were always there. Every toy, every photograph — it’s gone.”
How You Can Help
The Clines’ family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover hospital bills, temporary housing, wheelchairs, prosthetics, and other basic needs.
“We’re not asking for anything extravagant,” Bowman shared. “Just the basics to get them stable, so they can start the long journey to recovery.”
Legal and financial advisors, including attorneys familiar with emergency insurance claims and medical credit options, are stepping in to help the family navigate a mountain of paperwork.
But it won’t be easy.
“Many people don’t realize the hidden costs of long-term trauma care,” says Louisville-based injury attorney Raymond Ellis. “We’re talking tens, if not hundreds, of thousands in emergency response, surgeries, rehab, prosthetics, and at-home care. Insurance only goes so far — that’s where community donations and legal intervention become vital.”
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Statewide Tragedy
Sadly, Paul and Gail weren’t the only victims. The tornado outbreak claimed the lives of 19 people in Pulaski and Laurel counties. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear delivered an emotional speech, calling each victim “a child of God who will be missed.”
He also urged residents to pray for those injured — including the 10 patients being treated at UK Hospital — and to support ongoing recovery efforts.
Love Stronger Than the Storm
Even in the face of unthinkable pain, Paul and Gail’s love story has inspired thousands. The fact that they held on through the most violent moment of their lives has become a symbol of hope and strength.
“Everything was destroyed — but not their love,” said Baker. “They held on to each other. That’s who they are.”
How to Support the Clines
Their family is encouraging anyone who can help — whether through donation, supplies, or spreading the word — to visit their GoFundMe page. Every dollar will go toward medical treatment, home rebuilding, and helping the couple adjust to life with new disabilities.
This isn’t just a story about disaster — it’s a story about recovery, resilience, and how powerful love can be, even in life’s darkest moments.
If this story moved you, share it with someone. And if you’re able, consider donating to help Paul and Gail begin their healing journey.
Because love like theirs deserves a second chance.