MADEIRA BEACH, Fla. — Imagine waking up to smoke and flames filling your apartment building. 

  • Chef in John's Pass picking up pieces after apartment fire
  • Mo Long escaped Madeira beach fire last week
  • Friends helping him rebuild his life

That's what happened to Mo Long and other residents on Tuesday in Madeira Beach. A building with four units inside on Boca Ciega Avenue went up in flames. Long lost everything inside. Thankfully his dog, named Pinky, woke him up and saved his life.

Long immediately returned to work after losing everything to start rebuilding his life again. He's worked at the Friendly Fisherman Restaurant in John's Pass for 18 years.

“I really feel blessed right now to be here at work," said Long.

His coworkers, managers and friends have been helping him get back on his feet. Many have donated money and others have reached out to offer help.

“Mo is a legend in John’s Pass. He’s a terrific guy. And he’s a very important part of our team here.," said George Lewis the owner of The Management Company. Lewis is helping Long find a new apartment.

“It’s very heartwarming. Very very heartwarming.," said Long. “Everybody here has been very supportive, calling me, I had like a thousand phone calls and a thousand texts. I’m so glad I could get help.”

Long found a temporary place to live. He's slowly picking up the pieces and rebuilding the life he created in that home for more than a decade.

“All I can do now is work hard and strive, and just like what you said, pick up the pieces.," said Long.

Investigators are still working to determine what caused the fire.