Jeff Darlington shares a touching story about Sarasota before Hurricane Milton

ESPN's Jeff Darlington is watching Hurricane Milton hit Florida's Gulf Coast like everyone else. One of the strongest storms in modern history, Milton remains a Category 3 hurricane. Strong winds and storm surges exceeding 15 feet are expected to have catastrophic impacts on areas still affected by the recent Hurricane Helene.

Sarasota, Florida is expected to take a direct hit, with its barrier islands particularly at risk. One of these, Siesta Key, is known for its white sandy beaches and has been voted the most popular beach in the United States by many sources

Sarasota and Siesta Key bring back fond memories for Darlington, who shared a touching personal story on X Wednesday about his and his family's experiences there, dating back half a century. His grandfather used his savings to buy a small apartment in Siesta Key in 1979.

“And so began my family’s connection to Florida,” Darlington wrote. “My grandparents loved living there among the tourists and hiking for miles through the crystal-white sand every day. Although they have both passed away, my family has gathered in Siesta Key every year for decades at this very small, sweet property.

“I took my first steps on this beach and have left thousands more footprints since then. It's hard to watch and wonder what will happen next as the Eye of Milton charges forward, and I'm strangely glad that my late grandmother is no longer here to see it. But please think about the locals and the beaches. Siesta Key offers the greatest combination of simplicity and beauty Florida has to offer. Once it recovers, I recommend you visit if you haven't already.

A little story that serves no real purpose but makes me feel good to share…

My grandfather was a paint mixer. His company went bankrupt and he lost his pension. So in 1979 he took half of his savings and bought a small apartment in the place where he liked to vacation:… pic.twitter.com/fytTf9K9vl

— Jeff Darlington (@JeffDarlington) October 9, 2024

As mentioned, Siesta Key, Sarasota and Florida are expecting frightening images of evacuations in the news.

“It’s going to be a knockout. Buildings, houses, destroyed foundations. This is unsurvivable.” Emergency responders were seen throughout Sarasota County, Florida, urging residents to evacuate ahead of Hurricane Milton. pic.twitter.com/tr74PIMYxC

– ABC News (@ABC) October 9, 2024

Finally, Darlington emphasized that he is safe, but his thoughts are with the people of Sarasota.

“I am perfectly safe in Fort Lauderdale, but my heart and mind remain with my family on the Gulf Coast… and in Siesta Key… my 'only haven,'” Darlington concluded.

(Jeff Darlington)