Sometimes the news can be, well, not so inspiring. When headlines get you down, it’s important to remember that positive things are still happening all around us. Here are five hopeful and encouraging stories to pay attention to this week:
New Dialysis Hospital in India Will Offer Free Treatment for All
India’s biggest dialysis hospital will offer free treatment to all patients in need. The Guru Harkishan Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Kidney Dialysis Hospital, which has been in development for more than 20 years, will ultimately reach a capacity of over 1000 beds as expansion of the project continues. The Sikh community is very excited to offer this new treatment center and especially happy to be able to offer free services. Read more.
Child Prodigy Graduates High School at 12 years Old
It’s safe to say that most of us were walking down middle school hallways at the age of 12, but not Alena Wicker. This preteen has just completed high school via homeschooling and will be attending Arizona State University, where she will double major in astronomical and planetary science and chemistry. Wicker has always had a passion for building, and her lifelong goal is to be a NASA engineer building planetary rovers like those seen on Mars. If Wicker continues on track, she will graduate college at just 16 years old. This young genius is headed to the stars and beyond! Read more.
Yo-Yo Ma Delights With Surprise Concert at Vaccine Center
After getting his second dose of the Covid-19 vaccine in Massachusetts, renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma surprised those waiting at the clinic with a solo performance. Ma said he wanted to “give back” to those who were working and waiting at the clinic. As he played, a hush fell over the (socially distanced) crowd, and the employees said it was the first time it had felt peaceful there, like the music brought everyone a little bit of hope. Read more.
Rescued Seal Finds New Home in the Big Apple
Sidney, the New York City Aquarium’s newest member, was rescued last year in California after being born prematurely and found alone on a rocky beach. After making her way across the country, she is now acclimated and comfortable in her new home on the east coast. New York Aquarium staff say she has already made some seal friends, and will spend her time playing and performing with the other seals, sea lions, and otters that live in the aquarium. Read more.
Grandson and Grandmother Reunite When He Gives Her Covid Vaccine
Shirley Donaldson and her grandson had been separated for the past year because of the pandemic, but were able to reunite for a very special occasion. Mike Rechen, who works as an EMT, had been serving at Maryland sites administering the COVID vaccine, and had the chance to administer his grandmother’s second dose. Shirley used to care for Mike when he was younger, and he was able to repay the favor by taking care of her. Shirley was thrilled to see her grandson again. “It was wonderful. I am so proud of him and I’m so glad that it worked out this way. It was a special occasion,” she said. Read more.