“Sometimes real superheroes live in the hearts of small children fighting big battles.”
Wearing bright pink T-shirts and supportive smiles, the students and staff at Bellefontaine Intermediate School took a step of solidarity for one of their own Monday, May 15, when they participated in Morning for Martinez. The event was held to raise money and show their support for third-grader Ema Martinez, who was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2021.
The day started with a ceremony that included words from students, Ema’s family members and BIS staff. Christie Barns, community outreach manager with Mary Rutan Hospital and Logan County Cancer Society (LCCS), was also in attendance. Half of the money raised will go to LCCS.
“We are able to help anyone in Logan County because of you,” Barns said. “Thank you for your support.”
Fifth-grader Leo Reser-Stanford served as the emcee for the ceremony. He introduced several of Ema’s family members, including her mother, Yosneri Rangel, who choked back her emotions as she also thanked the attendees. Her fifth-grade niece Amanda Rangel Moran served as her Spanish interpreter.
Ema was first diagnosed with brain cancer on Nov. 23, 2021, when she was seven years old.
Monday’s event included outdoor games for all the students to participate in plus snow cones and prizes.