Hammond, La.- Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards honored two brave young ladies Friday for their courage and heroism during a horrific pitbull attack.
The incident happened on April 27, 2012, when 8-year-old Mikayja Oliver was viciously attacked by two pitbulls while riding her bike with 11-year-old Desiree Mitchell.
Mitchell physically attempted to get the dogs off of Oliver during the attack, but when she realized that she could not stop the dogs, she ran for help.
"Most adults put in a situation like that may not have handled themselves as composed and brave as Desiree did," says Sheriff Edwards, "Most of us would have panicked or even ran away."
As Sheriff Edwards presented their plaques, he shared with Mitchell that her extraordinary act of bravery has defined her as a true hero and has shown a pure demonstration of the strength of her character.
Oliver was presented with a plaque of courage because of her will to fight while maintaining a positive attitude during this entire experience.
Many believe that Oliver's positive attitude is what aided in her journey to recovery.
Sheriff Edwards and Desiree Mitchell (TPSO)
Sheriff Edwards and Mikayja Oliver (TPSO)
