ERTs helps after fallen tree damages Orangeburg roof

By Billy Robinson

ORANGEBURG—Early in the morning of July 31, straight line winds ravaged Orangeburg, damaging some downtown businesses and crashing a huge oak tree into a home on Sherwood Drive.

While no one was injured, portions of the trunk were in the home and several big branches had pierced the roof.

The family was desperate for help. They especially wanted the tree cut off as best as possible and the roof tarped to prevent further damage from any future rains.

They contacted Orangeburg Emergency Services Director Billy Staley, who called me to see if the South Carolina United Methodist Volunteers in Mission’s Early Response Team could help.

I was in Lexington Hospital recovering from two serious intestinal bleeds and was extremely weak. But, by the grace of God, I was able to call on several people who were able to help.

Felix and Misty Vazquez assessed the situation as a complicated but doable job, and team leaders sprang into action coordinating a next day response.

On Aug. 1, a faithful and determined team of six responded with one ERT trailer and started work early on a predicted 110-degree heat index day.

The tasks were phenomenal for the small team, but with help from the homeowner and a family member, they had the hot and difficult job complete eight hours later.

Watermelon and mandated cool down sessions helped them complete the task plus the love, will and desire to help other in need just as Jesus helps and loves us.

Team members were the Rev. Mike Evans, Don and Kathy Beatty, Danny McKeown and Felix and Misty Vazquez.

Robinson is South Carolina UMVIM ERT coordinator. To learn more about ERT: 803-539-8429 or [email protected].