However, when asked about his actions, Bridger’s response was nothing short of remarkable: “If someone had to die, I thought it should be me.” These selfless words left a lasting impact on the world, as people across the globe hailed him as a hero.
Today, one year later, Bridger’s father, Robert Walker, reveals that his son still firmly stands by those words. “My wife and I asked him, ‘Do you want it to go away?’ And he said, ‘I don’t want it to go all the way away,'” Robert shares. Bridger views the scar on his face as a badge of honor, a reminder that he protected his sister from harm.
“It almost bothers him sometimes when he’s called a hero because he thinks, ‘Maybe I could have done more to shield her,'” Robert adds lovingly of his now seven-year-old son.
Bridger’s selfless act captured the hearts of millions worldwide when his aunt, Nikki Walker, shared the incident on Instagram. The story went viral, with Hollywood stars, including Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, and Brie Larson, praising the young boy for his bravery.
Yet, it wasn’t just celebrities who reached out. Strangers from across the world sent Bridger heartfelt letters and meaningful gifts to show their support. Robert reflects, “It was certainly unexpected when everything went viral. It is not something we’d ever want to relive, but the light certainly outshone the darkness by exponential degrees.”
Among those deeply moved by Bridger’s story was New York City-based dermatologist Dr. Dhaival Bhanusali, who offered to provide free treatment. This offer gave the family hope after a disappointing consultation with another doctor who had said Bridger’s scars couldn’t be treated for at least two years.
The Walkers accepted Dr. Bhanusali’s offer and flew to New York, where Bridger underwent two laser procedures. When travel became challenging due to the pandemic, Utah-based dermatologist Dr. Cory B. Maughan continued the treatment with two more procedures.
These medical professionals have significantly reduced Bridger’s scarring, bringing back his smile and confidence. “In a year, Dr. Bhanusali and Dr. Maughan have been able to take care of the scarring almost completely,” Robert explains. “Seeing his smile perk back up, that was more than we could have hoped for.”
Bridger is now waiting to see how the bottom half of his scar responds to the last procedure before additional treatments. Although some redness and tightening remain, both Robert and Dr. Bhanusali see a promising future.
“We still have a little bit more work to do on the superficial, redness part of it, but structurally everything looks so much better,” says Dr. Bhanusali. Robert adds, “We want this to be a story he tells, not a memory he has to relive every day.”
As Bridger continues to heal, Robert finds joy in witnessing his “brilliant little boy” return to his normal, fun-loving, and lively self. Dr. Bhanusali also observes the transformation in Bridger’s personality, happiness, and joy.
Robert expresses profound gratitude to the countless individuals who showed their support during the past year. “It was absolutely miraculous,” he says. “For thousands—if not millions—of people to reach out from around the world to a stranger they’ve never met because they’re concerned about the well-being of a 6-year-old boy in the middle of Wyoming… there’s something special there.”
He concludes with a powerful message: “I couldn’t be more grateful. And if there’s a message in all of this, it’s that there are good people out there willing to do great things for a little guy.” Bridger Walker’s journey serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of humanity and the power of selflessness.
