Justin Gilstrap, an 11-year-old from Appling, Georgia, was attacked by three pit bulls almost two weeks ago. He lost seventy percent of his scalp in the attack, but his mother’s quick thinking and the doctors’ efforts have resulted in a remarkable recovery. Considering the severity of the attack, he is expected to make a full recovery in a short span of time.
Justin, who is currently hospitalized, recently shared a message of encouragement: “Don’t give up.” Justin’s story serves as an inspiration and a reminder that hope should always be kept alive, even during the most difficult times. We thank Justin for his powerful message, which encourages us to remain resilient and not lose faith in the support systems available to us when we face challenges, such as the network of hospitals accessible to Americans throughout the nation.
Despite injuries in a brutal pit bull attack on April 24, 2022, Justin Gilstrap has shown remarkable resilience and determination in his recovery, serving as a shining example of the human spirit. Justin lost most of his scalp in the attack, leaving him with both physical and psychological scars from the traumatic event. However, he has made incredible progress in his healing journey.
Justin, who has been followed by many and receiving prayers, has shared an emotional update on his condition from the hospital. His story is a testament to the fact that people can overcome even the toughest challenges with resilience. It reminds us that in times of adversity, we can prevail.
While biking home, Justin was attacked by a pack of pit bulls who surrounded him and viciously bit him multiple times. The boy, who had serious injuries, spoke to local news agency WRDW, “\Hey, everybody. I love y’all. I just want you to know I’m OK.”
Justin’s GoFundMe account, started by his mother Ericka Gilstrap, has received generous donations from people, amounting to over $220,000 for his medical expenses. In America, victims have to bear substantial costs for their recovery care after an attack to restore their pre-attack life.
Justin was attacked by dogs that had broken free from a neighbor’s yard. One of the dogs bit his leg, which allowed the other dogs to move in an attempt to attack his head. They ripped off parts of his scalp, his ears, his chest, and even from his legs. The dogs almost killed Justin.
Justin was found badly wounded in a heap of soil by his relatives. Ericak, his mother, informed the Augusta Chronicle that her own mother saw the horrifying scene.
“She said there was just blood everywhere,” Ericka stated. “She couldn’t tell where she was bleeding from … but apparently he was bleeding from everywhere because there’s not an inch of his body that is not covered in a cut or bruise.”
Burt Baker III, the owner of the dogs, was charged with reckless conduct. He acknowledged that his dogs enjoy chasing people on bicycles.
“The sad thing is we have reported these dogs several times before,” Erica said on the GoFundMe page. “Columbia County did nothing! It’s sad it took this for them to finally do something.”
