Community mourns mother, daughter killed in house fire

The families of the mother and daughter who died in a Saturday morning Wakeman house fire are asking people to make donations to the Angelman Syndrome Foundation in their memories. The Angelman Syndrome Foundation is a foundation created to advance the awareness and treatment of Angelman syndrome through education and information, research, and support for individuals with Angelman syndrome, their families and other concerned parties. Angelman syndrome (AS) is a rare neuro-genetic disorder that occurs in one of 15,000 live births or 500,000 people worldwide, according to the Angelman Syndrome Foundation. People with Angelman syndrome have developmental problems that become noticeable by the age of 6-12 months. Common symptoms include walking and balance disorders, gastrointestinal issues, seizures, and little to no speech. According to her obituary, Zoey Senghas, 12, was "dealt a difficult hand from the start being diagnosed with Angelman syndrome (a rare genetic disorder) by 18 months, which caused her lifelong distress." "Determined not to let it overcome her, she strived to be the greatest human being on the planet," her obituary read. "We were told she would never walk but she beat that by the age of three." The obituary also said Zoey loved playing with her brother. "She was often found running around with her younger brother Brady Senghas. The two of them had a bond like no other," the obituary said. The obituary also said the young girl was non-verbal. "Zoey's greatest gift was her smile, it would light up any room and could instantly bring a smile to your face," the obituary said. In addition to making donations to the Angelman Syndrome Foundation, people are also invited to make donations to the Zoey Senghas Memorial Fund via Farmer's Savings Bank, P.O. Box 438, Wellington, OH, 44090. Meanwhile, Zoey's mother Cindi Jackson, 43, also died in the Saturday morning fire. Jackson graduated from St. Paul High School and received her Master's degree in education from Bowling Green State University. "Cindi's laugh was contagious and could be heard from miles around," her obituary stated. "Her robust voice and strong personality made a big impact on everyone she encountered." Cindi could be seen riding her tandem bike through the streets of Wakeman with Zoey and her son, Brady, along with her niece and nephew. "She was a beloved mother, sister, aunt, and friend that will be missed by many," the obituary stated. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be sent to the foundation. The Wakeman Fire Department has referred questions about the fire to the Ohio Fire Marshal's Office. Ohio Fire Marshal's Office spokesperson Jarrod Clay said the fire is still under investigation. He said no foul play is suspected and that the home did have working smoke alarms. Huron County Coroner Dr. Jeff Harwood said that Zoey and her mother both died from smoke inhalation.