Autumn Barnes
Stories
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National
A pilot takes a big risk to save a skydiver's life
In 1970, Alan Ayers was preparing himself for a skydiving competition in Gainesville, Florida. It wasn't the first time he'd jumped out of a plane, but it was almost his last.
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National
An English teacher's response to a stuttering student changed her life
In high school, Susan had a stutter, and was embarrassed to speak in front of her class. Then her English teacher told her something that changed the course of her life.
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National
When a second grader doesn't have lunch, a teacher steps in to save the day
It took a teacher to spot that Evelyn Flores didn't have any food. The hour that followed set the young student on a path to teaching.
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National
A father needed to get to his daughter in the ICU. A stranger helped him get there
When Daniel Willingham's daughter ended up in the ICU, an unsung hero stepped up to help him get there.
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National
A mother's understanding of her son is transformed with a single phone call
Barbara spent years trying to understand her son's difficult behavior. Then someone said something that made her realize that it was no one's fault.
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National
She was in panic mode at the hospital. A kind gesture offered a moment of calm
One afternoon in 2003, Susan Dickman was finishing her work day when she spotted six missed calls from the hospital. Her dad, who had recently been diagnosed with leukemia, was there for a biopsy.
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National
A boy on the autism spectrum struggled with a haircut. His barber saved the day
Getting haircuts was one of Jackson's biggest fears. But one barber's patience and creativity made the ordeal something he now looks forward to.
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National
An unexpected invitation from a stranger changed her life trajectory
In 2013, Alie was having one of the hardest years of her life. Then she got a Facebook message from a generous stranger.
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National
She survived a horrific crash. This is why she now keeps a blanket in her trunk
After Laura Carstensen was badly injured in a car crash, two strangers stopped to help her. Their small act of help made a lasting impression.
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National
She was bracing for her boyfriend's anger. Then a stranger stepped in
Renée was in an emotionally abusive relationship. At the airport one day, she said a stranger helped remind her that she's worthy of compassion.
