Jerry Moran: “Since the earthquake hit Haiti on January 12, we have all watched with sadness as the death toll rose, prayed for those…”

“Since the earthquake hit Haiti on January 12, we have all watched with sadness as the death toll rose, prayed for those affected, and rejoiced when survivors were found. It is an event that has directly touched the lives of people around the world, including many at home in Kansas. I have heard some incredibly touching stories about Kansans affected by the earthquake. Many were in Haiti already serving the people of Haiti and caring for people who are less fortunate than they are. Thirty-one-year-old Ann Varghese, a graduate of Southeast High School in Wichita and the University of Kansas, was trapped under the rubble of a hotel for 55 hours. In a tiny dark space just 3 feet high and 5 feet long, Ann spent over 2 days with five other people without water and sharing only gum and a lone Tootsie Pop. Though nothing short of a miracle, Ann made it out alive, but sadly for two of her colleagues who were trapped, they did not. Kim Bentrott of Belleville, Kansas, and her husband, Patrick, remain in Haiti. They made it out of their third-floor apartment just before the building collapsed. Employed through Global Ministries, they have lost their headquarters, school, offices, and medical clinic, but must stay to complete the process of adopting a son, Solomon. Now 14 months old, Kim and Patrick rescued Solomon from a Haitian orphanage as a newborn, and their dedication to providing a loving family for Solomon is an inspiration.”