A young Lake Country girl going through a major health challenge has found love and support from an unexpected source: her favorite frozen treat maker Kona Ice.
Just two weeks ago, Nora Raasch underwent open-heart surgery for a heart defect she was born with.
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The four-year-old and her family returned home from Children's Hospital to a surprise, that has since ended up being a huge part of her recovery process.
After the surgery, there were some setbacks. She's been in a lot of pain, and lost her appetite. That's where Kona Ice comes in.
Nora's aunt reached out to Kona Ice, saying she'd pay the Hawaiian shaved-ice truck to be at Nora's house when she got out of the hospital. The little girl loves when the truck comes through the neighborhood.
"I said I'll tell you what, I will come every day, and I will not charge you," said Jamison Sterken, who owns the Kona Ice truck. "In fact, I refuse to charge you."
The truck continues to stop at Nora's house every day, to deliver free shaved ice to her and her sisters.
"The first day after surgery, Nora's dad had to carry her," he said.
But now, Nora stands tall with her sisters. The little fighter is getting stronger every day.
"If I can just help Nora feel better and have fun for five minutes, then it's absolutely worth it," Sterken said.
"Kona Ice has been amazing," said Nora's mom, Brynn Raasch. "I didn't expect that. Stopping once would have been special enough. But to have that truck here every day really gives her something to look forward to. We are so thankful."
A small act of kindness, making a huge difference.
