Survivor Amy Downs, a credit union employee during the 1995 Murrah federal building bombing in Oklahoma City, shares her harrowing experience of being buried alive for hours under rubble. Downs, who survived alongside more than 600 others, faced physical injuries and the mental toll of losing 18 co-workers in the bombing.
Now 30 years later, Downs continues to share her story of survival and hope, advocating for finding purpose and taking small steps toward goals, even in the face of adversity. After retiring early and moving near the mountains, she planted 700 daffodils and nurtures an American elm sapling from the Survivor Tree at the bombing site, symbolizing resilience and growth.
Downs, who completed an Iron Man competition at age 50, emphasizes the importance of unity and humanity, especially in times of political division. She believes in the power of small acts of kindness and hopes to inspire others to find hope and strength amid life’s challenges.
Reflecting on the Oklahoma Standard of compassion and support, Downs recalls the moment when the community rallied around her after she learned of her friend’s death. She believes in the common humanity that unites us and encourages others to remember that, despite differences, we are more alike than we are different. As the 30th anniversary of the bombing approaches, Downs’ message of resilience and unity serves as a reminder of the power of love and hope in overcoming tragedy.
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