I’m a firm believer in the old saying, “Everything happens for a reason.” God puts us in people’s lives for a purpose and this past Saturday, I was put directly in front of that line of thought and once again, the Power of Prayer.

I walked into the flight school and there stood a family that would soon remind me how many of us who walk this earth often take for granted that, every day, we have with us the people we care most about.

A smiling face greeted me, and I will forever remember Reyna Martinez’s excitement that morning. As I learned their story and became familiarized with the family, tears swelled in my eyes. Twelve-year-old Reyna recently began to experience migraine headaches and in turn, has spent many hours at the hospital seeking a diagnosis.

Her father told us, “I stood outside and kept thinking about what we could do to lift her spirits after one of the doctor visits in Austin. Then, I remembered how Reyna’s face lit up when she was around the planes at Wings of Freedom.”

Indeed, this girl’s passion for flight is apparent. Her father, Joel Rodriguez, took her to the Women of Aviation Worldwide Week and she was one of the 98 young girls whom Dianna Stanger took on a helicopter ride in April of this year. “It started out after my helicopter ride,” Reyna explained. “You see how things are from the air and it changes your perspective.”

Since then she discovered her passion for flight; she unfortunately missed out on other recent aviation events due to doctor’s visits. “Reyna is a devoted student; this has also affected her schooling,” Reyna’s mother, JoAnn Benevidez said to me.

With all of the negativity in their life, Joel decided to seek advice from a close friend who is a pilot, Michael Solomon. And he knew just where to reach him – the Calhoun Air Center location in Victoria.

While Michael was not the voice on the other line, Beckey Boyd Gooden’s was. Following a series of questions, Joel opened up to Beckey. “I guess it was because it was someone new that listened to me, I felt comfortable talking to her and told her about Reyna’s condition. I never dreamed we would be standing here today because of it.”

A couple of phone calls and emails later the family was invited on a discovery flight around Victoria and Calhoun County on Saturday, June 4th.

“It just overwhelmed me,” Joel said. “She brings so much light to our lives. Many times we pray Matthew 5:16 in seek of comfort.”

Matthew 5:16: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

“This has been the light at the end of the tunnel. It’s been a hard week, but this has helped us get through it,” Joel said. “It feels like our prayers have been answered, I was telling Reyna. We’re very positive about the future.”

Then it was time to take flight! Airport manager, Steve Plunkett, flew the family over Victoria, Port O’Connor and back along the coast. He even flew them over their home! Plus Reyna flew the Cessna 172 Skyhawk for awhile. The excitement on her face was overwhelming once they landed.

Reyna radiates with excitement as she prepares for her Discovery Flight in a Cessna 172 Skyhawk.

Although Reyna still feels like a normal person it’s difficult to ignore the constant pain; in addition, she worries about her family and all of the medical expenses they will bear. “I’m really grateful; I feel really special,” she said as she stepped out of the Cessna. “This experience helped to melt the pain away.” Even though she is only 12, Reyna is one of the lucky people who know exactly what she wants to be when she grows up.

“I thought it was just a place where planes flew in and out of,” said the young girl. “I didn’t know there was so much going on out here. Is it ok if I come back tomorrow?”

As Steve said good-bye to family, he turned and hugged the 12-year old, “Reyna, it was a privilege.” And indeed it was for all that were blessed to be a part of such a life-changing experience. I don’t think it was just me who was teary-eyed by the end of the flight.

It’s important to remember how this family’s life was forever changed because of the Power of Prayer. It’s also important to put time aside to help others because we never know when the tables will turn. My prayers go out to this family. I wish you well, Reyna and hope to fly with you someday. Till next time!

Joel, Reyna and JoAnna pose for a photo they will cherish forever.

An account for donations has been started at IBC Bank at H-E-B in Victoria, Texas to help with Reyna’s medical expenses and upcoming surgery. Please help contribute with a monetary donation, the account number for Reyna Martinez is: 2810282897.