Heroic rescue inspires cross-country thank you from autism advocate
By Muhammad Abdul Qawee
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LEE COUNTY, Florida (WBBH) — Sheletta Brundidge, a mother from Minnesota, reached out to express her gratitude to Bridgett Addison after seeing a news story about Addison’s heroic rescue of Mia Garcia from a near-drowning incident at Lakes Park in Lee County.
Addison jumped into the water to save Garcia, and Brundidge, an autism advocate with three children who have autism, felt compelled to thank her.
“The Lord put her on my heart and in my spirit,” Brundidge said. “Would not let me rest until I found her.”
Brundidge highlighted the importance of Addison’s actions, saying, “If she hadn’t been there, if she hadn’t stepped out on faith, if she hadn’t put her own life on the line, we’d be covering the funeral right now. You know, I’m not sure why Bridgett is not already on the Today Show.”
Brundidge, who has written children’s books about her children’s journeys, contacted Gulf Coast News to connect with Addison.
“When I talked to her, I just needed to say, on behalf of all parents who have children with autism who wander, thank you because it takes a village.”
Brundidge thanked Addison not only with words but also with gifts, including a $1,000 reward, a shopping spree, copies of her books, and plans to send a large bouquet of flowers.
“I’m going to send her the biggest bouquet of flowers that any flower shop in her neighborhood can put together to deliver to her house,” Brundidge said.
Brundidge acknowledged the rarity of Addison’s bravery, stating, “She risked her own life to save this child.”
Addison, who is still overwhelmed by the experience, remains humble and hopes her story will inspire others to help strangers in need.
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