When Rebecca Vitsmun proclaimed herself an atheist on national TV, the Moore woman became a “hero” of sorts for many people in the state who also consider themselves nonbelievers.

“A lot of people don't realize we're here — it's such a rarity,” said Red McCall, president of Oklahoma Atheists.

McCall said he saw Vitsmun's interview with CNN reporter Wolf Blitzer shortly after a tornado destroyed her home. The reporter asked Vitsmun if God had helped her make the choice to leave her house ahead of the deadly storm bearing down on her suburban city.

“You've gotta thank the Lord, right? Do you thank the Lord for that split-second decision?” Blitzer asked.