In the inspiring Bridger Walker story, this 6-year-old brother protects his sister, who is 4, when a dog comes charging at them. Bridger suffered serious injuries to his face as a result. But this brave boy was willing to do whatever it took to save his sister. And he's captured the hearts of so many, including the actor who plays Captain America, Chris Evans.
Since the day she was born, Bridger Walker has always shared a special bond with his little sister. He's a blessing to his whole family, and the big brother protects his sister in whatever way he can.
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On one fateful day, that meant putting himself directly in the path of a charging dog. But this selfless little boy is giving us all a lesson on what it means to sacrifice for others!
6-year-old Bridger Walker and his 4-year-old sister were at a friend's house when the unthinkable happened. The family had rescued a young German Shepherd mix and when Walker and his sister followed their friend into the backyard, the dog attacked.
As the canine came barreling towards the kids, Bridger acted with selfless courage.
"I stepped to the side, in front of my sister so that the dog wouldn't get her. I kept moving, so it couldn't get past," he said.
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In the face of danger, this brother protects his sister even though he knew it could mean laying down his life.
"If someone had to die, I thought it should be me," Bridger later explained to his dad.
Thank God, no one had to die that day. But there's no doubt that because of his bravery, this brother saved his sister from the dog attack.
Bridger willingly endured intense pain to keep his little sister safe. The charging dog latched on to his face before they were able to escape. It resulted in a terrifying trip to the emergency room and a 2-hour operation that involved "pulling his face and scalp back together" with over 90 stitches. But for this little hero, it was all worth it so the brother could protect his sister.
The dog's owners felt horrible and they were the ones to call 911, to apply first aid until the ambulance arrived, and to surrender the dog to animal control. Bridger's family holds no resentment or anger towards them.
"We are forever and sincerely grateful for the love and care they provided," the boy's dad explained.
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Neither does sweet 6-year-old Briger nor does he harbor any ill-will toward the dog that bit him.
"I don't want anything bad to happen to the dog," the brave boy told his parents.
Bridger Walker's story of courage and selflessness has inspired so many. His Aunt, Nicole Walker, shared the harrowing tale on social in the hopes of getting some "words of encouragement from his favorite heroes."
But the response has been greater than any of the family ever expected! Not only did thousands of folks send love and support, but quite a few celebrities did, too.
In fact, when the actor who plays Captain America, Chris Evans, heard the story of how this brave brother protects his sister, he sent Bridger a heartfelt message and an official 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,” Chris Evans told the starstruck Bridger Walker. "Keep being the man you are, we need people like you."
Other celebrities also had words of praise for the brother who protects his sister so courageously.
Ann Hathaway wrote, "I'm not an Avenger, but I know a superhero when I see one. I can only hope I'm half as brave in my life as you are in yours, Bridger."
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The actor who plays Hulk, Mark Ruffalo, said, "People who put the wellbeing of others in front of themselves are the most heroic and thoughtful people I know. I truly respect and admire your courage and your heart. Real courage isn't dominating people or fighting against people or walking around like a tough guy. Real courage is knowing what is right to do and doing it even when it might end up hurting you somehow."
In addition to words of encouragement, many asked about ways to help support the family financially. The generosity truly awed the Walkers. But this faithful family made a humble request, instead.
"Many have asked how they can help. We are so very grateful but believe there are so many with a greater need," Bridger's dad wrote on Instagram.
After much prayer and consideration, the family asked folks to make donations to organizations like Mission 22, Operation Underground Railroad, or The Wounded Warrior Project. You can read the full account of Bridger Walker's story through his dad's Instagram post, either below or HERE.
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This little hero is truly an inspiration for us all. And what a beautiful example of how God can use anything for a greater good!
h/t: NBC 12
Featured Image: Instagram/Nicole Walker
Mel is the senior writer for GodUpdates, finding, writing and sharing Christian, uplifting, and health-related stories from around the world. Mel has a passion for writing and graduated with a degree in English from Randolph-Macon College in Virginia. When she’s not researching and writing stories, Mel is very active in her church. You can usually find Mel playing board games with her husband and two young girls, giving someone a hug, or hunting down a good cup of coffee!