Texas Family Refused to Give Up — Today, Their Daughter Was Pulled From a Creek 6 Miles From Flood Zone With This Note in Her Pocket

The Thompson family’s unwavering determination led to the rescue of their 10-year-old daughter, Lily, from a creek six miles from Camp Mystic on July 10, 2025, after the Central Texas floods that killed at least 100 people. Found clutching a note in a waterproof pouch, Lily’s survival has become a symbol of hope in a region reeling from tragedy.

The floods struck on July 4, when the Guadalupe River surged 26 feet in 45 minutes, destroying Camp Mystic, where Lily was among 750 campers. The Thompsons, from Dallas, joined volunteer searches, refusing to accept the grim outlook. “We had to keep looking,” said Lily’s mother, Rachel. Their efforts paid off when a volunteer spotted Lily in a shallow creek, tangled in debris but alive.

Lily was hypothermic and disoriented, clutching a note: “I’m alive. Tell Mom and Dad I love them.” Written before the flood hit, the note was in a pouch she kept close. Rescuers believe she was swept downstream and stranded in the creek, surviving on rainwater. “She’s a fighter,” said paramedic Laura Chen. The Thompsons’ persistence inspired other families, who continue searching for 10 missing campers.

Kerr County, with 75 deaths, has seen 850 rescues, with 14 helicopters and 500 personnel involved. The floods, triggered by 10 inches of rain, have left communities in shock. The Kerr County Flood Relief Fund supports victims, while reunification centers at Ingram Elementary and Arcadia Live offer hope. Lily’s note, now a rallying symbol, has galvanized volunteers.

The Thompsons’ story highlights the power of family. Rachel and her husband, Mark, scoured riverbanks, ignoring warnings of dangerous conditions. Their reunion with Lily was tearful, with the family asking for privacy. The note, shared on social media, has inspired donations and prayers. Governor Greg Abbott called Lily’s survival a “miracle,” urging continued searches.

The floods have exposed infrastructure weaknesses, prompting calls for better flood defenses. The National Weather Service reported that river gauges failed after a 29.5-foot crest. Schools and churches are serving as shelters, with community members donating supplies. Lily’s rescue has spurred discussions about child safety at camps, with experts reviewing evacuation protocols.

As Texas braces for more rain, the search for suvivors continues. The Thompsons are advocating for other families, sharing Lily’s note as a symbol of hope. Kerrville’s resilience shines through, with local businesses and volunteers supporting relief efforts. Lily’s survival, against all odds, keeps the community focused on finding the remaining missing girls.