Heroes really do come at any age, and Bridger Walker from Wyoming, USA, is living proof of that.

In 2020, 6-year-old Bridger Walker risked his life to save his sister from a vicious dog attack. When Bridger saw a German Shepard charging at his sister, he did not hesitate to stand between her and the dog to protect her.

Bridger’s sister was safe, but he suffered severe injuries to his face and head, requiring 90 stitches. When asked by the media why he did what he did, the 6-year-old replied: “If anyone had to die, I thought it would be me.”

Bridger’s story and the photo of him and his 4-year-old sister, Brielle, with their faces swollen and scarred, went viral. Bridger was hailed as a hero for his bravery.

The boy has received a lot of attention as well as letters and gifts from celebrities such as actors Chris Evans, Tom Holland, Zachary Levi, Hugh Jackman, Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo.

The World Boxing Council made Bridger an honorary champion “for acts of bravery that represent the greatest human values” and awarded him a championship belt.

In a show of admiration for Bridger’s bravery, Yas Island, a leisure destination in Abu Dhabi, invited Bridger and all 24 members of his family to attend a free holiday in Abu Dhabi.

Although the Abu Dhabi trip is indispensable, Bridger’s father said that this is only a small part of Bridger’s story.

“It’s been amazing – the amazing, amazing support Bridger has received from all over the world,” he said. “I don’t know how his emotional recovery would have progressed without it.”

It took time for Bridger to heal both physically and mentally. After receiving support from celebrities and strangers alike, the family had to find a way to treat Bridger’s scars.

Plastic surgery has brought Bridger’s smile “back.” Bridger’s face is recovering well, thanks to laser treatments, and the scars are fading.

When asked if he wants the scars to go away, he replied, “I don’t want them to go away.” Bridger sees his scars as something to be proud of, but he doesn’t see them as representative of his bravery.

“I’m a big brother and that’s what a big brother does,” Bridger said.