Community Lifts Up Girl, 5, With Rare Tumor: Good News, Illinois

ACROSS ILLINOIS — In the depths of winter, we're all hoping to catch a spot of sunshine, an unexpected bird call, a flower pushing up through the sidewalk cracks. That's why we at Illinois Patch created this roundup of the week's best "good news" articles: to celebrate the stories that make us smile. From an errant bison who might be heading back home, to a community that is pulling out all the stops to support a five-year-old girl who has an inoperable brain tumor, we hope these Good News, Illinois, stories brighten your day.

Billy The Bison Spotted Near Her Farm, Being Lured With Food

The elusive bison has been on the lam for the past four months. Her owner is trying to get her back home so she can be with her sister.

Bolingbrook Couple Tips Scale In Their Favor With BMI Surgery

Susanna and James Ellexson have dropped 356 pounds together after undergoing a gastric bypass procedure at Silver Cross Hospital in 2020.

'Love For Maggie': Thousands Rally Behind Girl With Brain Tumor

KREMER COLUMN: The 5-year-old girl from Frankfort has an inoperable brain tumor. A GoFundMe account has raised more than $100,000 to date.

Christmas Without Cancer To Raffle Off Pat O'Connor's Shoe

Christmas Without Cancer will raffle off a shoe worn by Tampa Bay Buccaneer and St. Rita alum Pat O'Connor and other prizes on Feb. 19.

Middle Eastern Restaurant Opens 1st U.S. Location In Orland Park

Hashem Restaurant, based in Jordan, opened for a soft launch on Jan. 17 and serves authentic classics and other favorites.

Want to celebrate someone or something that made you smile? Have a Good News, Illinois, story of your own you'd like us to feature? Email lisa.farver@patch.com