10 Inspiring Stories of 2011

Whether it was one of our , a business in town doing something great, or the community coming together for a cause, there's no doubt Danvers is full of inspiring people.

As we wrap up 2011, here are 10 stories that were particularly inspiring to us, in chronological order.

: We were first introduced to McKinley Rose in January, when we learned the 19-month-old girl, daughter of two Danvers High alums, was battling leukemia.

Fourth-grader Ava Daly founded a charity called “Cookies for a Cure” with the hope that by contributing to cancer research, a cure will be found.
A large crowd filled the Memorial Gymnasium at St. John’s Prep to honor the victims who died on Sept. 11, 2001 and continue the healing process from that tragic day by helping sew together an American flag that was destroyed across the street from the World Trade Center.

The courageous story of Army Specialist Marc Silvestri and the support he received from Operation Troop Support while recovering from injuries sustained in Afghanistan.

After less than 72 hours of planning, the town announced a program dedicated to the 40 homeless school-aged children in Danvers for a six-week summer program at the

: Sixth-grader Skye Lovell was disheartened when she saw her favorite spot in town, Mill Pond, filled with garbage. From there, she's working to create awareness and put an end to the pollution.

: As the nation remembered the tragedy of 9/11, Danvers stepped back to remember a home town inspiration, Karen Martin.

: Learn about the accomplishments of Girl Scout Troop 60240, comprised of sixth-graders at , who in November were showcased for their showed immense dedication to the troops and different charities around town.

: Camryn Holt was diagnosed at two and a half years old with Type 1 Diabetes, but she isn't letting it hold her back from pursuing her dreams in the theater, while educating peers about her disease.

: We were first introduced to Saoirse and her parents Mike and Kezia in July, when the told their courageous story of two family members battling cancer. In December, we were saddened to hear that 18-month-old Saoirse had passed away.

What were the most inspiring stories for you this year? Let us know in the comments.