This was my comment (below) that I posted as Inkwell!
I will add, as myself, that I found your character very believable and likable.
*I have never written a story that was 'finished'. I could tinker till the cows come home', but this story works. Its most outstanding feature is its attention to detail. Amazing.
The story had particular significance for me, I think, because it reminded me of an incident from my childhood. Something one never forgets and you capture that sense of catastrophe here.
You're a great writer :)*