Good News, Illinois: The Heartwarming Stories Of 2017

It's no secret: The most-read stories on Patch are the ones about terrible crimes, evil acts and heartbreaking tales of sadness. But what about the good news? The stories of great people doing good deeds and people overcoming the odds? There are plenty of those on Patch, too.

From heroic rescues to happy surprises to acts of kindness, here are some of the most heartwarming stories from the Illinois Patch team in 2017:

New Mom's Missing Ring Found: 'Miracles Do Happen'

A mother came home from giving birth to learn that a family heirloom ring was missing after her well-meaning sister did the family's laundry, not knowing the ring was in the pocket of a pair of jeans. But community members shared the new mom's story and an employee didn't give up until she found the precious bauble stuck inside a machine at the laundromat.

Hero Fitness Center Staff Saves Elderly Man's Life

Quick-thinking fitness center employees sprang into action after realizing an elderly swimming was in distress, performing CPR and playing a vital role in saving his life.

Army Dad Surprises Daughter During Brookfield Zoo Visit

A 12-year-old girl thought she was lucky to be chosen to participate in the Brookfield Zoo's dolphin show, but soon got the best surprise of her life as her dad, U.S. Army Reserves Capt. Joshua Flury, came home a few weeks ahead of schedule.

Mother's Day Special Delivery: Mom Gives Birth On I-55

A couple's third child was in a big hurry to arrive and made his appearance as the duo rushed to the hospital. An ambulance soon arrived and though he was born premature, baby Charles was soon thriving.

Chance The Rapper Donates $1M To Chicago Public Schools

It was a big year for the South Side native and musician, who won a Grammy, rubbed shoulders with former President Barack Obama and Prince Harry, and made a generous donation to Chicago Public Schools.

Good Samaritans Come To Pregnant Teen's Aid

This one didn't start out as a feel-good story: An expectant mom was injured in an unprovoked assault on a CTA bus, but a kind-hearted couple came to her rescue and forged a bond with her, even launching a fundraiser for the mom-to-be.

Parade For Purple Heart Recipient Israel Del Toro

"An amazing American hero," Master Sgt. Israel Del Toro was wounded when his Humvee hit a bomb in Afghanistan back in 2005. He battled back from burns over 80 percent of his body to not only re-enlist and serve several more years, but also to become a world record-setting Paralympian athlete. He got a hero's welcome up on his return to Illinois this year.

Woman Steps Forward To Claim Illinois Lottery's Largest Jackpot Prize In History

Winning the lottery is a stroke of luck no matter the amount, but a suburban woman took home the largest lottery prize in Illinois history.

Illinois Man Installs 58 Crosses To Remember Las Vegas Victims

Amid the sorrow of a horrific attack, a suburban man traveled thousands of miles to pay tribute to the victims of the Las Vegas shooting with a heartfelt display.

Lost Dog Comes Home After 2 Years

When Kody the Siberian husky disappeared in 2015, his family thought they'd never see him again. But thanks to Kody's microchip, his owner got the good news two years later that the pooch had been found more than 50 miles away.

Revived Ref Thanks 'Guardian Angel' Teacher And Cop

A football referee gave an emotional thanks to the two people who saved his life after he collapsed on the field and nearly died this fall. "Without these guys, I probably wouldn't be here tonight," he said.

Anonymous Hero Rescues Mayor, Dog From Frozen Lake

An 80-year-old suburban mayor was able to pull his Labrador retriever from the icy water after the dog wandered out on the frozen lake and fell through, but soon realized he was in trouble himself. A stranger who was out for a run spotted the scary situation worked to save the mayor and man's best friend. The mayor and his dog are doing just fine, and the anonymous hero has yet to be identified.

New Car, Strangers' Holiday Generosity Stun Homeless Mom

A CTA bus driver wanted to do something for his passenger and nominated her for the big win, saying, "I don't think anyone on this planet deserves it more than her."

Bears Fan Surprised With Gift From Husband After His Death

Patrick Beasley died days before Christmas — before he could surprise his wife with a jersey he'd found to replace one he'd accidentally thrown away. The couple's daughter found the gift and surprised her mother on Christmas morning, and the touching scene was captured on camera.

Actor Deon Cole Surprises Jewel-Osco Shoppers With Free Groceries

The "Angie Tribeca" and "Black-ish" star picked up the tab for customers at two Jewel-Osco stores, much to their delight.