Life can change in an instant and on June 18, 2020, Heidi Wachtel experienced just that. Wachtel, a Michigan native, was playing on a trampoline in rural Nebraska when the unexpected happened. While doing a backflip, Wachtel was launched from the trampoline to the ground due to an open zipper on the net. The back of Wachtel’s head took the brunt of the impact while the rest … [Read more...]
A Journey to Sweet Success
The beautifully crafted cakes that entrepreneur Michele Kilborn bakes are as sweet as her sunny disposition – but they also represent so much more. The Cakes by Birdie owner said she wouldn’t be where she is today if not for the support of her parents and the Hendrick Home Family Care Program, which helped her get back on her feet after escaping what she called a … [Read more...]
The Little EnGen That Could
Genifer Heath is affectionately known as Little EnGen on the roller derby track, and it’s a name she has rightfully earned. Despite adversity, Heath is an overcomer with her no-quit attitude, her grit and determination, her hard work and positivity. Heath fell in love with the idea of roller derby early on. As a teenager, she remembers watching her cousin take the track and … [Read more...]
Knocking Dreams Out of the Park
A Story of Persistence, Perseverance and Overcoming Amber Nall is not afraid to take on challenges. She’s faced them her entire life. Her deafness was discovered at 18 months of age, at a time when hearing tests and medical advancements weren’t as readily available as they are today. Her doctor and parents suspect that she was born deaf, but with no family history and a … [Read more...]
Beauty From Ashes
Amid the rubble, Sabrina Cedars still stood. What began as a dream for Ashley Pyle on her wedding day has become the story of a miracle. “I wanted to have something to do with weddings after Cason and I were married in 2004. Weddings are magical and I knew I wanted to be a part of them,” Ashley said. “I just didn’t know how.” In 2018, on the land where they … [Read more...]