A Year of Resilience and Human Spirit: Highlights from Deseret News in 2025
In 2025, the Deseret News captured a remarkable array of narratives showcasing the resilience, hope, and faith that characterize the human spirit. From battling terminal illness to acts of heroism during tragic events, the stories from this year reflect profound struggles and triumphs. Here, we revisit eleven impactful stories that illustrate the extraordinary lengths individuals go to inspire and uplift those around them.
Caroline Klein: Living Life to the Fullest Amid Terminal Cancer
The late Caroline Klein, chief communications officer at Smith Entertainment Group, faced life with remarkable courage after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. Klein’s calm demeanor at the moment of her diagnosis was a testament to her practical understanding of life’s fragility. As she embraced her circumstances, she transformed her terminal diagnosis into a catalyst for living fully, marrying her boyfriend just days after receiving her prognosis and continuing her work with the Utah Jazz and NHL’s Utah Mammoth. Klein left behind a legacy of positivity, encouraging others to find joy in every day.
Astrid Tuminez: Grief, Resilience, and Leadership
Astrid Tuminez, president of Utah Valley University, faced unparalleled losses in 2025, grappling with the devastating deaths of her husband Jeffrey Tolk and later, the tragic murder of Charlie Kirk on her campus. Tuminez’s reflections on grief were profound, emphasizing that such experiences transform one’s life. She urged students to embrace their pain, sharing invaluable insights derived from her own struggles—reminding everyone of the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.
Roman Ruiz: Rebuilding Life After Cardiac Arrest
Roman Ruiz experienced a profound life change after a cardiac arrest rendered him technically dead for 35 minutes during a track event in 2020. With memory loss affecting him significantly, Ruiz relied on stories from family and friends to piece together his remarkable recovery journey. At just 27, he now gives back to the community by coaching youth athletes and advocating for faith, insisting that God’s plan prevails through life’s challenges.
The Wilhite Sisters: Miracle Survivors of a Catastrophic Crash
The story of sisters Sabrina and Jessica Wilhite is one of the miraculous intertwined with tragedy. Their severe car accident left both with critical injuries, yet their determination and the support from countless strangers showcased the strength of community. Miracles unfolded as rescuers stepped in; their recovery, marked by everyday victories, ultimately reaffirmed the power of hope and human connection.
Bridger Frampton: A Doctor’s Heroism in Crisis
During a tragic shooting at the Grand Blanc Stake Center, Dr. Bridger Frampton displayed remarkable heroism as he repeatedly ran into a burning church to save lives. Amidst chaos and fear, Frampton, along with fellow emergency personnel such as Jared Hicken, demonstrated courage and selflessness that brought hope to a horror-stricken community. Their actions illuminated the resilience present in the midst of despair.
Jenedy Paige: From Grief to Strength
Artist and American Ninja Warrior contestant Jenedy Paige’s journey of healing began with the heartbreaking loss of her son. Channelling her grief into art and fitness, she transformed her life, culminating in a successful run on a nationally televised show. Her recent exhibition celebrating resilient women in her life was both a tribute to her journey and a reflection of her incredible strength.
President Dallin H. Oaks: Leadership Through Life’s Challenges
Dallin H. Oaks, the 18th president of the Church of Jesus Christ, was shaped by profound losses in his youth. His journey, underscored by his commitment to service and leadership, reflects the resilience that comes from facing and overcoming life’s hardships. Oaks’ insights resonate widely, urging compassion and humanity in public discourse.
The Hopeful Vision of Mia Love
The late Mia Love, former congresswoman, shared her heartfelt reflections on her battle with brain cancer, emphasizing self-reliance and community. Her “living wish” painted a picture of America filled with opportunities for ordinary citizens to achieve greatness. Love’s poignant message resonated deeply, serving as a reminder of the enduring spirit that binds communities together.
Davy Crockett: Utah’s Ultrarunning Legend
At 66, Davy Crockett’s remarkable journey from a 230-pound couch potato to an ultrarunning icon is a testament to human determination. Completing over 100 100-mile races, Crockett exemplifies how the human spirit can push beyond perceived limits. His passion for running, combined with profound insights about enduring life’s challenges, inspires both athletes and everyday individuals.
Jane Clayson Johnson: Finding Hope in Distress
Jane Clayson Johnson, an accomplished journalist, has long sought the transformative power of hope amid suffering. Her experiences conducted through thoughtful interviews led her to identify common threads of perseverance in human stories. Her works are a poignant reminder that amidst personal struggles, compassion can bridge divides and foster understanding.
In reviewing these narratives, it’s clear that 2025 was a year filled with powerful reminders of resilience, interconnectedness, and the profound impact of individual stories on communities. Each tale underscores a universal truth: the strength of the human spirit shines brightest during life’s most challenging moments.
