6-year-old gets 90 stitches saving his sister from dog attack; named 'honorary World Champ'
Tribune Web Desk
Chandigarh, July 16
Bridger Walker, a heroic six-year-old boy, required 90 stitches at his cheek after he was bitten in the face while trying to save his little sister from an onrushing dog.
The heroic boy has been named “honorary world champion” by the World Boxing Council.
The WBC, which count heavyweight Tyson Fury among their champions, said they were honoring the youngster for his actions of bravery that “represent the best values of humanity.”
We are honored to name 6-year-old, Bridger Walker, WBC Honorary Champion, for his brave actions that represent the best values of humanity. Bridger, you’re a hero 👏🔰 pic.twitter.com/L2FqL0K4vw
— World Boxing Council (@WBCBoxing) July 15, 2020
Picture of Briger’s hugging his proud sister has gone viral.
His aunt Nicole Walker posted to Instagram telling of the horrific moment a dog charged at the pair as they were out playing in their native Wyoming.
The post read:
“Hey, all. Please, share my nephew’s story so that it gets as much exposure as it can. We know that our little hero would love some words of encouragement from his favorite heroes. On July 9th, my six year old nephew Bridger saved his little sister’s life by standing between her and a charging dog. After getting bit several times on the face and head, he grabbed his sister’s hand and ran with her to keep her safe. He later said, “If someone had to die, I thought it should be me.” After receiving 90 stitches (give or take) from a skilled plastic surgeon, he’s finally resting at home. We love our brave boy and want all the other superheroes to know about this latest hero who joined their ranks. @tomholland2013 @chrishemsworth@robertdowneyjr @markruffalo@prattprattpratt @twhiddleston@chadwickboseman @vindiesel@chrisevans EDIT: I just finished visiting with Bridger at his home. His wounds are looking so much better! He’s in great spirits, and his awesome personality is intact. He can’t smile too widely yet, but he was grinning as I read some of your comments to him. I’d also like to mention here that the dog’s owners are really great people who have been nothing but kind to Bridger and his family. We feel no resentment toward them at all, and—if anything—there’s only been an increase of love between our families as a result of this incident. EDIT 2: Once again we’re blown away by the amazing comments and messages that Bridger’s receiving. I’ve had lots of inquiries about a GoFundMe. Bridger’s family has asked that any one wishing to help out financially can, instead, donate to @mission_22 or @wwp. Bridger is also a huge fan of Science, especially Geology. So I’m going to start a post where people can share with him pictures of cool rocks that they see. EDIT 3: Once again, everyone’s kindness has meant so much to us. I’m trying to get to all of the messages that I can, but it may take some time.”
Hollywood star Chris Evans sent a sweet video message to the young boy and promised him to send the real ‘Captain America’ shield.
“Pal, you’re a hero, what you did was so brave, so selfless – your sister is so lucky to have you as a big brother. Your parents must be so proud of you,” Evans told Bridger.
The video was shared online by Walker.
Evans promised to send Bridger, an avid Avengers fan, “an authentic Captain America shield because pal, you deserve it”.
“Keep being the man you are, we need people like you.Hang in there, I know recovery might be tough, but based on what I’ve seen, I don’t think there’s much that can slow you down,” the actor said in the video.
Besides Evans, ‘The Hulk’ star Mark Ruffalo also spoke about Bridger’s bravery, praising him as “more of man than many, many I have seen or known”.
Hollywood star Anne Hathaway, “Captain Marvel” star Brie Larson, “The Flash” series stars Grant Gustin and Robbie Amell also reached out to Bridger. With PTI
