Local Red Cross volunteer Sandra Wilmore is waiting by the phone.
Wilmore, working out of the Smithville office, has been notified that she should be prepared to head to the Gulf of Mexico to care for potential victims of Tropical Storm Isaac, which threatens to batter the coast with winds up to 125 mph.
“We just waiting now to see where the storm hits, and what happens when it hits the warm waters in the Gulf,” Wilmore told the Review.
She said the call could come at any time, and that she is prepared to go when the notification comes down.
“I could get the call while we are talking. We usually get a 24-hour notice, but you never know. I’m packed and waiting for the phone call to come in,” she said.
“I get an email, then they follow up with a phone call. when you get the phone call you’re pretty much on your way. I'm in the stand-by period right now.”
If the call comes, Wilmore will work with a team taking two vehicles from Nashville to help feed victims of the storm.
“Right now I’m working with the Emergency Response Vehicles (ERV) in the area of feeding,” Wilmore shared. “They have two Nashville-based ERVs on standby, and I will be on one of the teams manning those vehicles if we are needed. We always hope that's not going to be the case, but we are ready if it is.”
Local Red Cross Director Kathy Nesmith told the Review that Wilmore is a valued member of the team, and that she is not only willing to travel to assist with larger disasters, she works regularly at local home fires and storm scenes.
“Sandra not only has the passion to go out on national disasters like this, she also helps here at home on house fires, storms and the things that happen here at home,” Wilmore said. “That’s how most volunteers get started, with the desire to help people near their home.”
Wilmore said that her work has an upside and a downside, but in the end, it is a satisfying way to spend her time.
“I enjoy what I do,” Wilmore said, “It is a rewarding job, but it is heartbreaking too, because when we get the call that means someone is suffering.”
For more information on volunteering for the local Red Cross chapter, contact them at 931-473-2595, or visit the office in room C118 at the county complex on Congress Boulevard in Smithville.
Wilmore waits for call to Gulf
Red Cross on stand-by

