It has been two years since paddock guard John Shear, 92, threw himself in front of a thoroughbred in order to save a five-year-old girl from being trampled at Santa Anita Park in California. Shear was recently reunited with the youngster for the first time since the incident.
A report by ABC News affiliate theindychannel.com explains that Shear reunited with Roxy Key, who is now eight, at a ballet studio where she dances.
“I kept saying to myself, is that Roxy? Where is she?” Shear was quoted as saying. “I was on pins and needles waiting to see her. And when I finally see her come out and dance, it felt so exhilarating I can hardly explain. I felt so emotional in my heart.”
The article retells the story of how Shear selflessly put himself in the way of danger in order to save the youngster.
"I knew I was going to get hit," Shear was quoted as saying. "I thought there was a possibility I was going to die but you cannot stop and think ‘should I or shouldn't I?’ There is a five-year-old girl. I’m 90 years old. I have had a life. She hasn’t had a life. You got to save that life."
(With files from theindychannel.com)
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