Touching twist after brave boy, 6, saves sister from dog attack
The little boy who made headlines across the world after heroically saving his sister from a dog attack has received a message from his favourite superhero.
On July 9, six-year-old Bridger, from Cheyenne, Wyoming, stepped in between his sister and a vicious German shepherd after noticing the dog charging toward the young girl.
The dog latched onto Bridger’s cheek, leaving him with severe head injuries that required about 90 stitches to his face.
The young boy’s selfless act has been praised by thousands of people after his family took to Instagram on Monday to share his story.
His aunt, Nicole Walker, said his only wish while on the mend was to meet his favourite superheroes.
Bridger’s wish came true just four days later when he received a personalised message from Captain America actor Chris Evans.
His family posted a video of Bridger watching the superhero’s video while wearing a Captain America costume.
“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 said.
“Keep being the man you are, we need people like you”.
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The actor told Bridger to keep an eye out in the mail for an “authentic Captain America shield” he has sent and urged the little hero to stay positive.
“Hang in there, I know recovery might be tough but based on what I’ve seen, I don’t think there is much that can slow you down,” Evans said.
After watching the message, Bridger, who is still sporting scars, smiled and proudly said he would treasure the shield.
‘Bravest patient ever’
Ms Walker has since revealed Bridger’s positive attitude immediately after the terrifying attack.
“On the ride to the hospital, Bridger said ‘I always wanted to ride in am ambulance…but not like this. Maybe I can ride home in one too’,” Ms Walker wrote on Instagram.
She revealed the only time Bridger cried was when he was given an IV.
The six-year-old required a two-hour procedure “pulling his face and scalp back together, holding it in place with over 90 stitches”.
Doctor Jordan Greer praised the little boy for his bravery.
“I want you to know he is the bravest patient I’ve ever had, I really mean it,” Dr Greer told the family.
Bridger’s family said the response after sharing his story has been “both surprising and humbling”.
Several other of Bridger’s heroes have also reached out to him with kind messages, including Hugh Jackman, Tom Holland, Mark Ruffalo and Anne Hathaway.
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