My friend, Cynthia Martinez and her husband Eduardo, grew up in Ecuador.  She still has friends and family there and the latest rounds of earthquakes were too real for her.  She had to do something to help out the people she knew.  She contacted one co-worker of her husband’s in Ecuador who spent several days covered up with debris before he was rescued, and then sent the rescuers back in after other survivors.  It was all too close to home for her.  And when Cynthia puts her mind to something, it happens. 

She contacted her friends at Oklahoma Bible Academy and in conjunction with Chick-fil-A in Enid a relief fund was born.  They set up a silent auction and Spirit Night at Chick-fil-A.  A portion of proceeds from the food that was sold inside the restaurant, and all proceeds from the auction, were given to the relief fund.  She hustled donations from many different businesses and everyone was happy to give.

Cynthia coordinated the OBA/Chick-fil-A Spirit Night with a church in Ecuador to be certain the funds were used for the people of Ecuador who were in need. I never heard a final amount that was accumulated, but the restaurant was standing room only and I took my food to go.  People stood in line to sign up for the silent auction and the people of Enid’s generosity benefited those in need in Ecuador. 

I am happy to have been a part of this effort and to have a friend like Cynthia.