Cat 5 Chaos: One Family’s Unforgettable Hurricane Tale

Elmer and his family spent a terror filled night when a Category 5 hurricane blasted through their home in Mexico. Elmer recalls, “I was scared. The storm was getting worse and the roof fell on us. We took shelter under some stairs, but a piece of the metal roof still hit my mom.”  

Elmer’s mother, Monica, described the aftermath, “The whole roof blew off. The tree looked like it was spinning. We just stayed together and held each other until morning.” 

After the disaster, Elmer heard that a church supported by Operation Blessing was providing hot meals and clean water for affected families. Elmer explains, “I went there, and they gave me food. I took a plate for my brother and for my mother.” Elmer also watched CBN’s Superbook at the church, met the story’s character, Gizmo, and learned how to trust God in tough times. Elmer shares, “God is good and powerful and I know that He will take care of us no matter what."

The Operation Blessing Team then went to visit Elmer’s home, where Elmer explains, “Our house is full of garbage that was flying around. We can't sleep because when it rains, and we get wet, I have asthma attacks.” Monica adds, “I'm afraid he's going to get pneumonia. And there is no hospital to take him to now.” 

Thanks to supporters of Operation Blessing, we provided Mónica and her family with new polycarbonate vinyl sheets for the roof. We also gave them food, a solar lamp, a mattress, and a tarp to temporarily cover the house until they could repair it. With help from their neighbors, they soon installed the new roof. Monica thankfully says, “Now we will finally sleep well.” 

Elmer shares his delight saying, “I felt very happy because it is a miracle that you helped us.” 

And when we explained to them how God had used people to help in the midst of the disaster, the whole family prayed to become Christians. Elmer gratefully insists, “I feel very excited knowing that one prayer can bring so many good things. I thank you very much.”