Real-life ‘Ordinary Angels’ Reflect on 30-Year Anniversary of Louisville Snow Baby
In a heartwarming tale of courage and resilience, a Louisville woman’s extraordinary act of heroism has been immortalized in the upcoming major motion picture “Ordinary Angels.” Sharon Stevens Evans fondly recalls the intense snowstorm of 1994 that enveloped the Louisville region in a thick blanket of 16 inches of snow and ice, along with bone-chilling subzero temperatures. Despite the daunting conditions, Evans embarked on a mission that defied the odds, orchestrating a remarkable effort with the city’s assistance.
The visibility was so poor that the cars’ tires were barely discernible, prompting Evans to take immediate action. Three decades later, her remarkable endeavor to clear the pathways for a life-saving flight transporting three-year-old Michelle Schmitt to Omaha, Nebraska, for a crucial liver transplant has been immortalized on the silver screen. Schmitt, affectionately known as Louisville’s “snow baby,” became the focal point of this awe-inspiring narrative.
Unaware of the impending cinematic adaptation, Evans expressed her belief in the film’s positive impact on a global scale, emphasizing its potential to shed light on an important message. The movie, adapted from Evans’ memoir of the same title, features acclaimed actor Alan Ritchson in the role of Schmitt’s father, Ed, and Academy Award winner Hilary Swank portraying Evans herself.
Recalling her encounter with Swank, Evans humorously shared a moment of connection that set the tone for their collaboration. Additionally, Michelle’s elder sister, Ashley, played by the talented Skywalker Hughes, expressed her elation following the premieres in New York, underscoring the challenges of portraying characters facing such profound adversity.
Both sisters valiantly confronted a life-threatening liver condition, a struggle that resonates deeply with the Schmitt family, who aims to impart valuable lessons to the audience through the film. Their advocacy for organ donation, referred to as the “Gift of Life,” underscores the transformative impact it can have not only on the recipient but also on their loved ones.
Tragically, in 2021, Michelle passed away at the age of 30, leaving behind a legacy that “Ordinary Angels” seeks to honor and preserve. The family finds solace in the belief that Michelle, with her fondness for attention and recognition, would be delighted to witness her story reaching audiences far and wide.
As the much-anticipated premiere of “Ordinary Angels” approaches, Evans and the Schmitt family eagerly anticipate its unveiling, recognizing it as a narrative that resonates deeply with the spirit of Louisville.