Good News, Illinois: Young Survivor Gives Back, Diner Transforms

ACROSS ILLINOIS — Need a break from all the bad news out there? We at Illinois Patch created this roundup of the week's best "good news" articles to celebrate the stories that make us smile. From a young girl whose near-fatal injury inspired her to uplift others, to a stolen purse that was found two years later, we hope these Good News, Illinois, stories brighten your day.

Angie's Pancake House: 'It Was The Best Thing I Ever Done'

Angie's Pancake House serves breakfast and lunch from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Then, the restaurant becomes Loco's Mexican Restaurant.

Everyone Wins In Pop Tab Challenge

New Lenox collected the most pop tabs in challenge with Homer Glen, but both villages will send a family to Disney World.

Girl Shot In Face Gives Back To Hospital That Saved Her Life

It's been 3 years since Camryn Cox, now 10, was shot in the face by a cousin at a birthday party, leaving family unsure if she'd survive.

Show Off Your Pet At Smith Village's 12th Annual Pet Parade

Smith Village Senior Living Community will host its 12th annual pet parade July 23. Registration is required.

Lemont Pet Food Pantry Helps Woodridge Neighbors After Tornado

The main bulk of the donations went to West Suburban Community Pantry and Saint Scholastica Parish in Woodridge.

2 Years Later, Stolen Purse Found In Storm Drain In Wheaton

The purse, stolen during an Aug. 2019 burglary, was thought to be long gone.

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