FENTON, Mo. — For the second straight year, 5 On Your side is bringing back our "Holiday Hero" segment. It highlights local students doing incredible things for others during the holiday season. Wednesday morning, the crew on Today in Saint Louis featured 9-year-old Addie Lynch and her fourth-grade classmates at Stanton Elementary in the Rockwood District.
Addie is in the middle of a toy drive to benefit kids at Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital. For Addie, it's a toy drive that truly comes from the heart. In 2014, at the age of 6, Addie underwent open heart surgery to repair a heart defect.
"Before they put me in surgery, they would always come in with surprises and presents and I want to do that for other kids too," Addie said.
Addie is collecting toys at her home and at school. With about a week before the toy drive ends, she's collected more than 115 toys. Her classmates are also making cards to send to the children receiving gifts.
"Happy holidays to you and your family. I want you to know that you and your family are in my prayers. My wish is that you can get better. Never let anyone dull your sparkle," one fourth-grade student said as she read her card.
