On a bitterly cold evening in Buffalo, New York, as a blizzard howled through the streets and whiteout conditions made visibility nearly impossible, a woman’s compassion became the beacon that saved a life.
Sha’Kyra Aughtry was inside her home when she suddenly heard desperate cries for help coming from outside. Without hesitation, she rushed to the door and was stunned by what she found: a 64-year-old man, Joey White, barely able to move, his hands frozen from the bitter cold. He was alone, confused, and in critical condition.
Sha’Kyra’s boyfriend quickly carried Joey into the house, and what happened next was nothing short of extraordinary. Sha’Kyra, a stranger to Joey, sprang into action. She wrapped him in blankets, fed him, and did everything in her power to ease his pain. With emergency services overwhelmed due to the storm, she took to Facebook Live, begging for someone—anyone—to come help.
As it turned out, Joey White had a mental disability and lived in a group home. He worked at a local movie theater and was likely trying to make his way home when he got disoriented in the blizzard. With temperatures plummeting and no help in sight, his chances of survival were shrinking by the hour.
But Sha’Kyra wouldn’t give up.
After what felt like an eternity, a few brave volunteers made it through the storm to her house and rushed Joey to the hospital, where doctors immediately began treating his severe frostbite and exposure. Thanks to Sha’Kyra’s bravery and quick thinking, Joey survived.
His sister, Yvonne White, later praised Sha’Kyra as a true hero. “She saved my brother’s life,” Yvonne said. “She didn’t know him, but she helped him like he was family.”
In the face of one of the worst blizzards Buffalo has seen in years, Sha’Kyra proved that humanity can shine brightest in the darkest storms. Her kindness, courage, and selflessness are a reminder that being a hero doesn’t require a cape — just a heart willing to help.