Family members on Monday got to thank the men and women who helped save a 7-year-old boy's life after a recent crash in Manatee County.
- Crash happened two weeks ago in Manatee County
- Caden Dean and his father injured, hospitalized
- EMS workers, family had emotional meeting Monday
But the compliments were not one-sided. First-responders said he is one of the bravest children they've ever met.
The crash happened two weeks ago. Caden Dean and his father were injured after his dad had a medical emergency.
Katie Dean, wife and mother, said she'll never forget receiving the call.
"I collapsed," she said. "It was awful."
Caden took his seat belt off when he realized his father was having trouble.
"My dad passed out and I tried to save him," Caden said. "I tried to wake him up and I just couldn't."
His father's foot never came off the gas pedal before the vehicle crashed. Caden's head went into the windshield, his liver was lacerated and his face was badly cut.
He was air-lifted to All Children's Hospital. He and his dad are now both out of the hospital and doing better.
"He was such a brave little boy," said Kara Kitchen of Manatee County EMS. "He was just concerned about his dad, (asked us to) let him know if he was OK and what was going on with him."
Katie Dean was overcome with emotion meeting the people who saved her child's life. And Caden got a tour of the helicopter.
"We're so thankful for everyone that was there, and apparently we raised a very strong boy," Katie Dean said.