In blizzard of ’94, Louisville moved heaven and snow to save a ‘miracle’ baby

Louisville: The blizzard of ’94 was something else. It hit the city hard, leaving folks snowed in and scrambling. But for one family, it was a race against time.

The Schmitt family got a call that their 3-year-old daughter, Michelle, needed a liver transplant. The catch? They had to get her to Nebraska fast. The snow was piling up, and the roads were a mess.

As the storm raged on, people were losing their lives across the eastern U.S., but in Louisville, something incredible was about to happen. Neighbors heard the call for help and jumped into action.

Barbara Schmitt, Michelle’s grandmother, reached out to a family friend who had been helping them with medical costs. They needed a private jet to get Michelle to the hospital, but the roads were too dangerous.

Teresa Amshoff Meredith, stuck at home, heard the radio plea and decided to help. She looked out at a nearby church parking lot, perfect for a helicopter landing. She called the station and said she’d clear the lot herself.

With a sense of urgency, she rallied her neighbors. They grabbed shovels and headed out into the snow. It was tough going, but they were determined.

As they worked, more people showed up, including a tractor to help clear the way. The community came together, and soon the lot was ready for Michelle’s helicopter.

When the helicopter arrived, Michelle was brought out, bundled up and ready to go. Her dad was overwhelmed by the support they received.

After a successful transplant, Michelle’s story spread far and wide, earning her the nickname “miracle snow baby.” Fast forward 25 years, and she’s now a graduate and working in pediatrics.

Michelle knows she’s lucky to be alive, thanks to the kindness of strangers. She takes her meds and stays on top of her health, always grateful for the community that came together that snowy day.

She encourages everyone to consider becoming organ donors, reminding us all that miracles can happen when people unite for a good cause.