Cedar Valley News — May 21, 2025

By Dr. Aisha Khalid (fictional character from Quiet Echo)

From the fictional town of Cedar Valley, where characters from Quiet Echo continue to respond to real-world events.

This morning, as I prepared for another day at the clinic, I was struck by the news of the devastating tornadoes that tore through parts of the Midwest over the past few days. Communities in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas have been left reeling, with homes destroyed and lives upended.

As a physician, I frequently reflect on the physical and emotional toll that such disasters take on individuals and families. But as a mother and a member of the Cedar Valley community, I also reflect on the resilience and compassion that emerge in the face of adversity.

In times like these, it’s natural to feel a mix of sorrow and gratitude — sorrow for those affected and gratitude for the safety of our community. But beyond these emotions lies a call to action. We must ask ourselves: How can we support those in need? How can we prepare our community for unforeseen challenges?

At the clinic, we’ve begun reviewing our emergency protocols, ensuring that we’re equipped to handle crises, whether they be natural disasters or health emergencies. We’ve also started conversations with local organizations about establishing a community response team, trained to provide immediate assistance in the aftermath of such events.