CHICAGO—A South Side community came together for a parade to celebrate 17-year-old Sierra Rogers’ recovery after fighting COVID-19 for nearly eight weeks.

Sierra J. Rogers received treatment for the coronavirus at Rush University Medical Center from March 27 until May 20. Sierra then spent time at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab to help rebuild her strength after fighting the virus.

Ivy, who also overcame COVID-19, says it was an uphill battle, but Sierra is overjoyed to finally be home.

“Sierra is truly a fighter. She somehow maintained her bright and bubbly personality through it all,” Ivy said. “She built relationships with the staff at Rush, who went to great lengths to care and comfort her. Sierra is thrilled to finally be home and so grateful for everyone who has supported her in this journey to recovery.”

Sierra has Down syndrome and has had various health issues throughout her life, including heart surgery as a baby, screws in her hips and stomach surgery.

State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) was a grand marshal in the parade to celebrate Sierra’s recovery.

“Seeing such resilience and joy is what the world needs right now,” Sims said. “We have seen so much devastation in the midst of the two recent crises, the pandemic and the desperate fight for equality. It gives me hope to see a family overcome this deadly virus and have such a full appreciation for life.”

CHICAGO— State Senator Elgie R. Sims Jr. (D-Chicago), other black leaders and the governor took to the South Suburbs Saturday to call for action regarding police brutality and systemic racism.

“The fight is not over until black communities are finally prioritized and fear isn't felt in the presence of law enforcement,” Sims said. “Leaders on all levels have to come together to fix our broken system, so that it reflects that black lives do in fact matter. Our communities are entitled to fair resources and justice.”

The event at 1550 Sibley Blvd in Calumet City was the third in a series of four events organized by the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus in response to racial acts of violence against individuals like George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery. Face masks, food, water and Census resources were provided.

Sims vowed to continue fighting until people of all backgrounds are treated the same.

“I remain committed to work with the people of the 17^th District, local leaders and people within the system itself to truly reform our criminal justice system. We will achieve progress together,” Sims said.

The next and final day of action in the series will be in the West Suburbs on Sunday, June 7. The event is from noon to 1 p.m. at 300 Oak St.