CNN 5 Things 5 Good Things: Updates to Our Favorite Stories From 2025: Pt. 2
Jan 3, 2026
A woman shares her remarkable experience with a butterfly wing transplant, highlighting a new tracking tool that scientists are using to observe monarch migration. Signs of recovery emerge in L.A. nearly a year after wildfires, as community spirit renews. A comedy show takes a surprising turn when CPR saves a life and fosters an unlikely friendship. Meanwhile, gratitude goes viral from a small school, inspiring positivity beyond its walls. Finally, a heart transplant recipient pushes boundaries while training for the Transplant Games.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Real-Time Monarch Tracking Changes Conservation
- New lightweight radio tags now provide consistent, near-real-time tracking of monarch migration.
- Researchers can use this detailed movement data to target conservation and habitat-protection efforts.
Butterfly Wing Transplant Success
- Janine Bendixon repaired a monarch's broken wing using glue, cornstarch, and a donor wing to let it fly again.
- She planned to travel to Mexico hoping to see migrating monarchs and study their routes in person.
Symbols And Practical Rebuilds In L.A.
- Rebuilding after L.A. wildfires shows symbolic and practical signs of recovery like a restored VW bus and a rebuilt, fire-resistant show home.
- Rebuilding with fire-resistant materials and modern safety tech aims to create more resilient communities.