The inspiring true story behind the Netflix film Ordinary Angels continues to captivate audiences, with the remarkable tale of hairdresser Sharon Stevens and her mission to save a young girl's life. Portrayed by two-time Oscar winner Hilary Swank in director Jon Gunn's drama, the real-life events unfolded in January 1994 when five-year-old Michelle Schmitt from Louisville, Kentucky, needed an urgent liver transplant in Omaha.
The Blizzard Rescue That Defied All Odds
With mere hours to reach the hospital for life-saving surgery, Michelle's family faced an impossible journey when a historic snowstorm battered the region, breaking weather records across multiple states. It was Sharon Stevens' extraordinary determination and community mobilisation that turned the tide against nature's fury.
After learning of the family's desperate situation through a newspaper article - which revealed Michelle's mother had recently died, leaving them without crucial support - Sharon sprang into action. Mirroring events depicted in the Netflix drama, she successfully fundraised to cover medication costs, hospital travel, and additional medical bills.
"If I Say I'm Going to Do It, I'm Going to Do It"
Sharon explained her philosophy to WDRB, stating: "A lot of people say they're going to do something and don't do anything, and I'm not one of those kinds of people. If I say I'm going to do it, I'm going to do it." Her words became action as she mobilised support through radio appeals, recruiting hundreds of volunteers who helped clear a landing path for a helicopter amidst blizzard conditions.
The extraordinary rescue operation saw Michelle transported by helicopter to a nearby airport before boarding a private jet to Omaha for her transplant, creating a real-life miracle against overwhelming odds.
Sharon Stevens Today: Retirement and Continued Compassion
As reported by The Cinemaholic and the Express, Sharon has since retired from hairdressing and now enjoys a quieter life in Louisville with her two sons. However, her compassionate spirit remains undiminished, as she continues to extend helping hands to children in need.
She recently highlighted the plight of Michael Antony, a child born with multiple medical challenges including ticks, seizures, and brain bleeds, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to raising awareness for vulnerable children. Sharon remains active in church events and describes herself as a "Protestant Christian soldier who loves all people but dislikes bad behaviour."
Health Challenges and Personal Resilience
In recent years, Sharon has faced significant health challenges of her own, including surgery to remove a stent following complications with kidney stones. She also survived a serious car accident around 2010 that resulted in a severe head injury, the effects of which continue to impact her daily life.
Her son Derek, who has been caring for Sharon since her accident, encouraged her to document her experiences helping Michelle. This led to the publication of her book, and she attended the film adaptation's premiere alongside Michelle's father, Ed, with whom she maintains a close friendship.
Fact Versus Fiction: What the Film Changed
While Ordinary Angels faithfully captures the essence of Sharon's heroic actions, certain aspects of her character were altered for dramatic purposes. One significant departure from reality involves her portrayal as an alcoholic in the film - a characteristic that doesn't reflect Sharon's actual life.
Sharon gave filmmakers her approval when informed of their decision to fictionalise her character in this way, demonstrating her understanding of cinematic adaptation requirements while maintaining the core truth of her story.
Family Relationships and Fictional Characters
The film depicts Sharon as estranged from her son Derek, showing their relationship as strained and difficult. However, this representation couldn't be further from reality, as Sharon shares an exceptionally close bond with her son. Her book reveals that Derek has always been a "great source of love and strength for Sharon, and always has been."
Another fictional element involves the character Rose, played by Tamala Jones, who co-owns the salon with Sharon and attempts to guide her through alcoholism struggles. Rose appears to be a composite character created for the film, as she doesn't feature in Sharon's published account of events.
The Financial Reality of Sharon's Fundraising
As reported by the Courier Journal, Sharon's fundraising efforts were both substantial and sustained. She shared on Facebook: "I spent almost three years prior to her transplant raising money for medication, hospital runs to Omaha, and housing for the family. Her needs consumed my heart and she was a blessing to me."
Her efforts raised tens of thousands of pounds for the Schmitt family, covering essential costs during their most challenging period and demonstrating the profound impact of community support during medical crises.
The legacy of Sharon Stevens' extraordinary compassion continues through the Netflix film Ordinary Angels, reminding viewers of the remarkable difference one determined individual can make when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. Her story stands as a testament to human resilience, community spirit, and the power of ordinary people to perform extraordinary acts of kindness.
