The morning news recently featured a local girl who had helped her father get assistance when he had a stroke.  Or maybe it was heart attack - I only caught the teaser, not the whole story.  I think they said the girl was nine.  For a nine-year-old to keep her head when something serious is happening to her dad is unquestionably brave, not to mention strong.  Her parents must be very proud of her. 

I wish the news had featured the story of Alexis Goggins, as well.  For a seven-year-old to jump in front of a gun to save her mother, as Alexis did, is so ferociously heroic it breaks my heart.  Her mother was hit, in the side of the head and arm, but Alexis took six of the bullets meant for her mother.  Despite being shot in the face and upper body, Alexis came out of surgery on Sunday still fighting.  She may need further surgeries.  I can't even begin to imagine what her mother must be feeling, having had her first-grade daughter put her own body and life on the line to protect her.  

A fund for Alexis's medical expenses and her family's living costs has been established.  Checks should be made out to the Alexis Goggins Hero Fund and sent to Campbell Elementary School in care of the Alexis Goggins Hero Fund, 2301 E Alexandrine St, Detroit, 48207. For information, call (313) 494-2052.