סלומה

“The agony of Omayra Sanchez”
On November 13, 1985 there was a volcanic eruption which killed more than 25.000 people in Armero, Colombia. It is known as the Armero tragedy. Out of the thousands who had died, it was only this girl’s agony that shook the world.

Frank Fournier, a professional photographer had landed in the village Bogota on November 15th and travelled to Armero. He claimed to have been directed by a farmer towards Omayra who at the time was almost deserted since it was already three days that she was trapped in debris transported by the mud.

She remained there for the next three days trapped up to her neck under mud, concrete and water. The paramedics team realized that her legs were bound in such a manner that the only solution would be to amputate it. But, even to begin that procedure they had to drain out the water and required pumps. The Red Cross workers had appealed to the Government for a pump, but their pleas went unanswered.  It was after 2 days of struggle to save her that the rescuers finally gave up and spent the remaining time praying for her.

Throughout these three days she remained brave. She sang, spoke about returning to her school and also agreed to be interviewed. By the third night, Omayra had begun to hallucinate. More than 60 hours after the exposure she succumbed to Gangrene and Hypothermia. She passed away only 2 hours after the arrival of the pump as requested by the “red cross workers”.

This girl is an important part of Colombia’s history, she was brave and never gave up. I admire her attitude towards death. We will never forget.