Snowstorm Can't Stop Angel's Miracle Rescue

In 1994, a remarkable true story unfolded in Louisville, Kentucky, centered on hairdresser Sharon Stevens and her mission to save young Michelle Schmitt. The five-year-old desperately needed a liver transplant, but a devastating, record-breaking snowstorm in January 1994 jeopardized her ability to reach Omaha for the life-saving procedure.

Stevens, inspired by a newspaper article about Michelle's plight and her mother's recent passing, took decisive action. She organized a massive community effort, including radio appeals and rallying hundreds of volunteers to clear a helicopter landing path. This ensured Michelle could be transported via helicopter to an airport and then by private jet to Omaha for her transplant.

Stevens dedicated nearly three years to fundraising for Michelle's medical needs, including medication and family housing. While the film adaptation on Netflix, "Ordinary Angels," stars Hilary Swank, it includes fictionalized elements such as Sharon's depicted struggles with alcoholism and an estranged relationship with her son, Derek. In reality, Sharon was not an alcoholic and shares a close bond with Derek, who encouraged her to write about her experiences.

Today, Sharon Stevens enjoys a quiet retirement in Louisville, continuing her charitable work by raising awareness for children in need. Despite facing her own health challenges, including surviving a severe head injury from a car crash around 2010, she remains a beacon of hope and compassion, with her friendship with Michelle's father, Ed, still strong.