Stepdad Bear Hugged a Boy In An Attempt to Stop Him From Crying

Jordan L. Boggess (Newton County Sheriff’s Office). Right: The child known as “Baby Waylon”

The harrowing ordeal of a 10-month-old Missouri boy, Waylon, has captured hearts as he continues his courageous journey towards healing and recovery following a traumatic incident of abuse. The events unfolded on September 14 when emergency responders rushed to a home in Newtonia to find Waylon unconscious but breathing, with visible bruises on his forehead and ear. Initial assessments revealed two brain bleeds and collapsed lungs, indicating the severity of the situation.

Medical professionals at Joplin hospital quickly intervened, and Waylon was subsequently transferred to a children's hospital in Kansas City for specialized care. The extent of the injuries, including signs of abusive head trauma and physical abuse, painted a grim picture of the trauma inflicted upon the innocent child. The responsible individual, identified as Jordan Boggess, was arrested on a serious felony child abuse charge and remains in custody without bond.

Speaking out about the devastation caused, Tyler Burbridge, Waylon's parent, expressed the profound impact of the incident. Recounting the moment that changed their lives, Burbridge emphasized the irreversible harm inflicted on Waylon and the betrayal of trust by the perpetrator. The road to recovery has been fraught with challenges, but Waylon's spirit and resilience shine through, as he bravely navigates through physical therapy to regain basic skills like lifting his head and sitting up.

A beacon of hope amidst despair, Waylon was discharged from the hospital on October 24, marking a significant milestone in his healing journey. Supported by his devoted mother and a team of dedicated caregivers, he is now focused on rebuilding his strength and vitality. The family's unwavering commitment to Waylon's well-being is evident, as they prioritize his recovery and future endeavors.

In a statement shared with KYTV, Waylon's mother conveyed gratitude for the outpouring of support and emphasized their dedication to his ongoing progress. The narrative of Waylon's resilience serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals and seeking justice for victims of abuse. Despite the shadows of the past, a bright future awaits Waylon, filled with possibilities and the promise of a new beginning free from harm and fear.