11-year-old reunites with her hero after near-drowning rescue
By Muhammad Abdul Qawee
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LEE COUNTY, Florida (WBBH) — Mia Garcia, an 11-year-old girl, reunited with Bridgett Addison, the woman who saved her from drowning at Lakes Park in South Fort Myers, days after the incident.
Just days ago, Mia’s experience at the park was anything but fun as she fell into the water and couldn’t get out. Bridgett Addison heard the screams for help that day and jumped in to save her.
“Thank God we are here, especially her,” Addison said, reflecting on the rescue.
Even though Bridgett can’t swim, she was able to help Mia out of the water. The two hadn’t seen each other since that rescue.
When asked what she would do upon seeing Addison again, Mia said, “Definitely going to run up and hug her.”
Moments later, she did just that, running to Addison and embracing her in a hug full of love and a second chance.
“I’m so happy that you are OK,” Addison said during their reunion.
Addison brought Mia balloons, a stuffed animal, and a handwritten card with a heartfelt message. “I wanted you to know how very special you are. Continue being the beautiful person God created you to be, love always, Bridgett Addison,” she read from the note.
Addison, who was in the right place at the right time, humbly said, “People keep saying you were a hero. You, your hero. Your hero. I don’t feel like I’m really a hero. I feel like if you see anybody in distress, help them.”
Mia Garcia, reflecting on Addison’s modesty, said, “It makes me feel okay. Because she is a hero, she just is. Probably doesn’t see that.”
From now on, Mia and Bridgett aren’t strangers; they’re family.
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