Everyday Angels

For 21 years, Everyday Angels has been sharing stories of families in our community whose lives have been rocked by life-changing circumstances. It is our hope that these features inform, add deep perspective, inspire and move our readers to step up and help. As 2021 winds down, and we approach the holiday season, we wanted to highlight a few of this year’s stories.

If you know of a local family in need, please share with us at aaeverydayangels@gmail.com. During the Thanksgiving season, especially, we thank our readers and compassionate community for helping us make a positive difference locally. May you be blessed, safe and healthy!

Elicia Hernandez-Ortiz was the only survivor of the senseless massage parlor shootings that became national news last March. Elicia was shot in the forehead that day and is thankful that he is still with us. His little girl attends Clark Creek Elementary and their family appreciates the outpouring of love and support from their school and community, helping them overcome this tragedy.

Malachai Davis, 8, was diagnosed with choroid plexus carcinoma of the brain while vacationing with his family over the summer. After being life-flighted to Miami, Malachai and his family have chosen to remain in Miami for the necessary treatments. He currently is beginning his radiation treatments, and they pray for positive results with few side effects.

Hillary Foster,

40, shared her brave journey of a colorectal adenocarcinoma diagnosis. Hillary boldly shared her story in hopes of creating awareness of the increasing danger of colorectal cancer in those under the age of testing recommendations. Today, Hillary continues her aggressive treatment in hopes to be cancer-free. Her faith and spirit are an inspiration to all she comes in contact with.

Sisters Michelle and Leslie both were born with a genetic kidney disease, Alport syndrome, a disorder that causes progressive loss of kidney function. Since January, Leslie has received her cadaver kidney and is pushing through the highs and lows of transplant procedures. Michelle will receive one of her husband’s kidneys and continues to have fundraising events to help make this life-saving procedure happen for her. No amount is too small.

In April, Chloe Gray, a seventh-grader at Freedom Middle School, began experiencing pain in her knee. She was diagnosed with osteosarcoma and immediately had surgery, followed by intense chemo and therapy. Her road to recovery will require patience and hard work, but no one is more determined than Chloe.

Everyday Angels is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. To make a tax deductible donation, visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal, or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. If you know of a special need in your community, email aaeverydayangels@gmail.com.