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Woman donating stuffed owls to children’s hospital this holiday season

Posted at 6:08 PM, Dec 02, 2016
and last updated 2016-12-03 03:55:08-05

GREENVILLE, Mich. -- A West Michigan mother who lost her baby girl is paying it forward to the hospital who helped her through it all.

Malia Cole says she was overwhelmed with the care and support she got at the University of Michigan Children's Hospital, and now she wants to make Christmas there extra special.

Cole lost her daughter Kala to an organ disorder and a form of Spina bifida six years ago.

"It's taken me a long time to get out of my depression and everything," Cole said.  "And now I just feel like I'm ready to give back.

Cole says she got outstanding care and support during her 72 days at Mott Children's Hospital.  Her goal is to send the hospital at least 100 stuffed animals known as "Annie the Owl" to make Christmas a bit brighter for patients and their families.

"I think it's a good gift because I just love seeing people grin and be happy," said Austin Cole, one of Malia's two sons.  "Especially all those kids there.  This would make my day.  It would make the year for me."

Cole says the holidays are tougher without Kala, but giving back is helping her cope.

"You know how you get into the Christmas spirit or whatever, and it just hasn't been there for me," Cole said.  "And this is kind of helping, and I think it will help when we go down there and give them the owls."

So far, Cole says she only has nine owls, 91 short of her goal. If you would like to donate, Malia has a Facebook page and a go fund me page set up.