Positively Uplifting Stories | December 1 2025

Unfair and unfortunate things happen in life. Even in our most difficult, darkest moments, we still have a choice. We can choose to hold on to trust and hope. We can keep rising.

Never allow any obstacle to steal your hope. Acknowledge your pain, and use it as fuel to grow wiser and more resilient.

“I don’t think of all the misery, but of the beauty that still remains.” – Anne Frank

Let’s explore a few stories that inspire us to stay hopeful and embrace the light.

• A young girl steps up to support her sister
• A teacher provides packed lunches to support students in need
• A community rallies to bring joy to a young boy
• A Secret Santa surprises brothers with generous gifts

Positively Uplifting Stories | December 1 2025

Young girl harnesses the power of joy for a meaningful cause.

 Nine-year-old Nora Vaughn is on a mission to spread joy and raise awareness about Rett syndrome.

Her 14-year-old sister, Susie, lives with the neurodevelopmental disorder, which currently has no known cure.

In honor of her big sister, Nora set up a joke stand in their front yard to support the Rett Syndrome Research Trust.

So far, she has raised nearly $1,000!

“I was raising money for Rett Syndrome because my sister has it, and I want her to be able to talk, walk stably, and use her hands,” said Nora.

Teacher brings in nutritious food for students in need.

 Many families in the U.S. are facing heightened food insecurity.

In Delaware County, Pennsylvania, special education teacher Ally Coffey stepped up to help families affected by the loss of their food assistance program benefits. Her initiative has inspired others to come together in support of their community.

Thanks to an outpouring of donations and encouragement, her mission continues to grow, allowing her to help more and more people in need. 

“Everybody has been so kind and so generous. It really has kind of restored my faith in humanity. Everybody's coming together for one cause, and that's to feed kids. Kids deserve to be able to eat,” said Ally.

Community brings Halloween to a sick 3-year-old’s doorstep.

People from all over Kansas City came to visit 3-year-old Tucker Langford, who couldn’t go trick-or-treating because of a health condition.

The community came together to give him a special day filled with Halloween treats and joy. Visitors also signed a guest book to remind Tucker’s family of the love and support surrounding them.

“It’s brought us a lot of joy, seeing everyone coming for him and supporting him and for our family,” said Tucker’s mother, Chandler Langford.

Brothers receive an unexpected act of kindness from Secret Santa.

A Secret Santa in eastern Idaho is helping people in need.

Brothers Troy and Trent have always supported each other, refusing to let their limitations define them. Troy has been paralyzed since age 11, and Trent lifts, carries, and assists him however he can.

Recently, Trent was diagnosed with Best disease, a genetic condition that has left him legally blind.

Secret Santa surprised the brothers with gifts worth thousands of dollars! Overwhelmed with gratitude, the two broke down in tears upon receiving the surprise.

“Yeah, I wish I knew exactly what to say, but I don't think anything really does it justice. So, thank you for everything. Like, it's going to help a lot and I do, and I'll do my best to pay it forward,” said Troy.