Meet Lanita Edge, a traffic control officer in the bustling city of Detroit. Lanita, a working mom with an infectious personality, has captured the attention of millions on social media, and the outpouring of love and support she has received is nothing short of extraordinary.
It all started when a TikTok account called MDMotivators interviewed Lanita while she was on duty, guiding traffic and engaging in friendly conversations with passers-by. On that special day, Lanita wished everyone a happy Mother's Day, showcasing her genuine care for others. Little did she know that this simple act of kindness would change her life.
The video of Lanita's interview went viral, capturing the hearts of viewers across the globe. In the midst of her dedication to the city and her passion for ensuring people's safety on the roads, Lanita revealed that she was born and raised in the Motor City and was a devoted Tigers fan.
In an incredible turn of events, a TikToker named Zackery surprised Lanita by inviting her to a Tigers game for Mother's Day. As a working mom who recently lost her husband, Lanita wondered if the invitation was dependent on her financial situation. To her amazement, Zackery presented her with $500, proving that this act of kindness was purely out of admiration for the remarkable person she is.
But the surprises didn't end there. Unbeknownst to Lanita, Zackery had secretly set up a crowdfunding campaign to show appreciation for Lanita's kind spirit. The campaign amassed a staggering $50,000, a testament to the generosity and compassion of people around the world. And where better to present this incredible gift than on the grass of the Tigers' ballpark?
Lanita's son and Detroit Tigers catcher, Jake Rogers, had the honor of handing her the check. The moment was like something out of a movie, filled with pure joy and beauty. Zackery, in an interview with ABC 7 Detroit, expressed his awe, saying, "It was like a movie. It was beautiful. I feel very blessed to be able to just witness this. All I am doing is showcasing who she is as an individual, and the people online came together and created this."
Overwhelmed with gratitude, Lanita could hardly find the words to express her appreciation. "God uses wonderful people every day," she said, humbled by the outpouring of support. "I didn't know this man, and God used him to be a blessing to me. I couldn't thank him enough. I couldn't give God thanks enough."
Since the video went viral, Lanita has become a beloved figure, with over 9 million views and countless individuals stopping by the crosswalk to greet her, offer congratulations, or simply wish her well. The impact she has had on people's lives is immeasurable.