Wednesday marks the first anniversary of the tornado that damaged nearly 130 churches, businesses and homes in Portland, Michigan.
Since then Portland has made an impressive comeback.
The Goodwill Store that was destroyed in the storm is now rebuilt with a stronger design.
For Tim Perry, who helped rescue five people trapped inside the collapsed store, the city's comeback is a reason to celebrate.
Just two weeks ago he started working in his new office building. It's next to the Goodwill and also needed to be rebuilt. For Perry the best part of the building is a new basement, a feature the office didn't have before the storm.
"When it started picking me up and carrying me I just felt so trapped," said Perry, who was at work when the storm hit. "There was nowhere I could go or run to hide. Now there's definitely a place we can all come down and be safe."
Since the tornado touched down without warning, Perry barely had enough time to run for cover.
"There had to be a spirit watching over me, an angel to have the building disintegrate around me and pick me up and literally carry me away," Perry recalled.
Last year he showed Susan El Khoury where he landed in the hallway of his office, under the only spot there was roof left. Perry says he didn't have time for shock after the storm. When he got outside the Goodwill building next door collapsed, so he ran over to help the people trapped inside.
"I head little kids screaming through the Goodwill calling for help," Perry said.
Now it's a different scene. The Goodwill is rebuilt this time with a sturdier design and it's the same case at Perry's office building.
"They hey planned them for an EF3 to an EF5 tornado," Perry added.
One of the only signs left of the destruction are the noticeably bare trees, what Perry calls reminders of what's most important.
"People say 'oh it makes me forget about all the little things that you know drive you crazy' and you really do. You really don't--the little things--you don't sweat them anymore."
For Perry the worst scar is the kind you can't see, his fear every time there's a storm. Even that he's taking in stride.
"It makes you realize that time is that short you really just don't know so enjoy what you have," Perry said.
Crews are putting the finishing touches on the Goodwill Store which is set to reopen on Saturday.
Four churches were also damaged in the storm. Wednesday on the one year anniversary they're throwing a block party to celebrate all the progress the city made.
Saturday is also the annual Portland St. Patrick Summerfest. This year's theme is "one year later -- we're still Portland strong."
