Extraordinary People - CNN

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This CNN series honors people -- some famous, some not -- who have done something remarkable to help or inspire others.

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NFL player strikes chord with message about race
By Tamara Wilson, CNN
On November 25, 2014, Benjamin Watson of the New Orleans Saints took to Facebook to express his thoughts about the racially tinged unrest in Ferguson, Missouri. His thoughtful message went viral, and Watson believes talking about race freely can help the nation heal.

Offering emotional support after a deadly plane crash
By Natalie Angley, CNN
In 1996, Heidi Snow's fiance boarded a plane that exploded in midair. Now she's working to help relatives of plane-crash victims cope with their loss.

Florida teacher saves 38 children from burning bus
By Rebecca Angel Baer, CNN
On December 3, math teacher Kristina Buhrman was filling in as a bus driver for her Florida school when a sudden crisis forced her to take action.

Heroism and humility: 5 ways to be extraordinary
By Brandon Griggs, CNN
Seemingly ordinary people sometimes become extraordinary overnight through a single act of heroism. Here are five lessons they can teach us.
A Canadian hero in the right place

He slashed his own pay to raise others' wages
By Lauren Lee-Johnson, CNN
Kentucky State University President Raymond Burse gave up $90,000 of his salary so that 24 of his lowest-paid workers could get raises.
Student treats family for Ebola

11 extraordinary people of 2014
By Brandon Griggs, CNN
It was a year of sobering news. But if you look harder, 2014 had its share of inspiring stories as well. They remind us of our common humanity and the intrinsic goodness of most people.

Five everyday heroes you have to meet
By Amanda Sloane, HLNtv.com
They're not rich and famous, but that didn't stop them from being extraordinary. These five people became heroes in 2013 after they made selfless decisions that inspired others.

Severely autistic boy becomes gold medalist
By Jareen Imam, CNN
Twelve years ago, Rachel Miller was lost when it came to her son John. The 7-year-old was profoundly disabled because of his autism.