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As folks struggle to regain a sense of normalcy, one local businessman is giving back after he nearly lost everything.

Duane Johnston, back at work for the first time in a week, is the owner of Accolade Fitness. After returning to his evacuated home and business and finding both intact, he decided to help gym members who were less fortunate

Out of the more than 340 homeowners who lost everything, 135 who already had membership at the gym will get free memberships for the rest of the year.

"The last thing I want them worrying about is 20 dollars a month," he said.

Johnston hopes this small gesture will lift a burden off his customers.

"It's a sanctuary for people to work out, to feel better, to work out the stress," he said.

Matthew Pedersen knows the importance of that. After days of uncertainty, he was allowed back into his neighborhood Saturday to find his home unscathed. Now, he's just hoping life can get back to normal.

"We were just happy we were alive...everything else is replaceable," Pederson said.

Johnston said that at some point he may extend his offer to more fire victims.

Reporter: Brian McConchie