New Heart, New Lungs, Inspiring Cop: Illinois' Best News Of 2018

ILLINOIS — The new year is a great time to take stock of the past 12 months — the good and the bad, the sorrow and the joy. And while 2018 has been a rough year in many ways, there's plenty of great things happening right here in the Land of Lincoln.

As we prepare to ring in 2019, here's a look back at the people and things that made Illinois great in 2018, and some of the year's most heartwarming stories.

The Moment Sofia Sanchez, 11, Learned She Was Getting A New Heart

Sofia Sanchez had another birthday wish granted a week after her 11th birthday. She already met Drake; now she's got a new heart.

Couple Gets Engaged, Survives Hawaii Helicopter Crash

A suburban couple was celebrating their engagement in paradise when near tragedy struck and their helicopter pilot become unconscious. The quick-thinking duo was able to put the helicopter down into the water and save the still-unresponsive pilot.

Teen Who Lost Both Parents Now Financial Advisor For Millennials

Cortlon Cofield overcame loss to find success — and now he's helping others do the same.

Lip Sync Challenge Video Stars Wounded Park Forest Officer

Cops paid tribute to wounded colleague Tim Jones, who starred in the video featuring songs including the Counting Crows' "Mr. Jones" and Kanye West's "Stronger." Try not to smile when you watch this one.

Playground Built On Vacant Lot In 1 Day

Volunteers from throughout the city and suburbs helped with the construction of "Peace Park."

Sensational Sister Jean

The Ramblers' most devoted fan became a TV and online sensation amid the team's Final Four run.

'No Way!' Man Finds Out He's Getting New Lungs

Kevin D'Agostino's overjoyed reaction was caught on camera.

Man Proposes With Newspaper Word Puzzle

His 6-month quest for the ultimate proposal for his puzzle-loving girlfriend came to fruition in a Sunday "Jumble."

Singing Pastor Fights 'Miracle' Battle With Oral Cancer

"To be able to sing again, is the best gift that God could give me," he said.

Homeless Dog Flies 5,200 Miles To Reunite With Army Major

Nobody wanted Pete, except for Major Dan Johnson. Watch the reunion here.

Mother Gives Daughter The Gift Of Life With Organ Donation

"I felt that we were always close, but now we're even closer," the daughter said.