Local 556 Member Raises Money for Covid-19 Victim

TWU Local 556 member Cheyenne Cope turned her bad day into a charitable one.

Earlier this week, the Dallas-based Southwest Flight Attendant began raising money via a Facebook video to help a shuttle bus driver named Ben, whose daughter passed away from Covid-19, leaving behind five children – one as young as eight.

“I was kind of in a grumpy mood that day and talking to him really put me into check,” Cope recalled. “I was complaining about really, tiny little things and he was being so nice and listening to me…even while he was dealing with so much. It put my problems into better perspective.”

Cope explained that Ben, who works for a DoubleTree in Phoenix, did not miss a day of work because his coworkers rely on him. She felt “called to do something” and posted a message on Facebook, asking for donations for Ben. She thought she could maybe raise $100 or so.

“So far, we raised $4,259. I didn’t expect that at all,” Cope said. “I am overwhelmed by how generous everyone was that donated. I didn’t think anyone would reach out or even react to it. To have that response was incredible and I want to thank everyone that donated. I know Ben appreciates it.”

If you are interested in donating, contact dromano@twu.org.