Pendleton in pink for fair victim, as hopeful signs emerge

PENDLETON, Ind. (WISH) - The color of Pendleton’s heart is pink – the favorite color of Andrea Vellinga. Hundreds of ribbons adorn everything from stop signs to car antennas.

“When you see her facem it just lights you up because there's always a smile,” said resident Matt Obras.

The 30-year-old wife and mother was critically injured in the stage rigging collapse at the State Fair that killed seven. She endured a marathon brain surgery, and now there are signs of hope, according to information her brother Tyler posted on Facebook.

On Monday night he wrote: "Respirator is set at 18 but her respiratory rate is currently 24 meaning she's beginning to breathe on her own. Very smooth at this point."

Then, Tuesday afternoon: “Andrea briefly opened her eyes and is responding to pain tests with movement in her arms and legs! Very early stages of waking up! Praise Him in all things.”

Facebook posts rooted on by a town, wearing its pink everywhere.

“It just shows what Pendleton, this community, is about - taking in someone that is hurting,” Obras said. “It goes to reflect what God has done in this community and how we react to something like that.”

A fund to help the family has been set up through Catalyst Church in Pendleton. To donate, go to the church’s website , click on Catalyst Online and then on Vellinga Support.