A Red Cross Disaster Worker's Perspective from Margaret Sanner
September 18, 2008
"I have just driven 1,100 miles across Texas this past week to help deliver aid to victims of Hurricane Ike. Last Saturday night I went to Galveston Island. I was there to record the damage to homes, but as I stood and cried in the rubble of what was once a home for Freida, a small blonde-haired, blue-eyed lady, I realized the real damage from Ike had been to the people from Texas.
Another man in Galveston, Frank, rose during the storm for a drink of water - when he stepped off his bed into a foot of water. He knew his decision to stay and weather out the storm had been an under-estimation of the power of Mother Nature. Frank grabbed his dog and headed for the attic where he faired well, but was scared and felt alone. We made sure Frank had enough water and food and then we spent time listening to him letting him know that we cared.
A few days later in a shelter in Houston a small boy approached another Red Cross volunteer to thank him for being there for him and his family. The little boy was scared when his family had to evacuate. But as soon as he saw the Red Cross shelter, he knew he was safe.
I'm seeing a lot of physical and emotional devastation, and I'm tired like a lot of other Red Cross workers. We are sleeping alongside those that we came to serve in the same conditions with no power, certainly without a soft bed. But I couldn't imagine being anywhere else.
Besides the damage left in Ike's wake, I'm also seeing the spirit of America responding. We're pulling together and locking arms in the days ahead. We're going to need more help though...this is a monstrous relief effort, and we need help! We need more manpower, and we need more money.
This is a chance in a lifetime to make a difference in the lives of others. Call the local Southern Tier Chapter (607.785.7207) or click here to donate online.
Every little bit of help you can give right now, is greatly needed. Please help make a difference."