7 year old Lynwood girl honored for saving her father

Mia Dates, 7, is honored for her bravery by the Lynwood Police Department
Mia Dates,7, is honored for her bravery by the Lynwood Police Department Photo credit Xavier Bates

Xavier Dates gets a bit choked up when he recalls the day he fell down the stairs and was knocked unconscious.

"It was January 14th, I was watching the Bulls game and I went upstairs to check on my daughter. I was coming back down the stairs and I fell down and knocked my self out, unconscious."

His wife was at work, so his quick thinking daughter Mia called 911.

Dispatcher: "911, what is your emergency?"
Mia: "My dad fell down the stairs"
Dispatcher: "Are there any injuries"
Mia: "His leg is hurt."

"When I came to, I saw Mia looking over me with the phone, and the house keys. She put the dog in the cage and unlocked the door so the paramedics could get in." said Dates.

Lynwood Mayor Jada Curry with Mia Dates in her home
Lynwood Mayor Jada Curry with Mia Dates in her home Photo credit Xavier Bates

"I couldn't believe it. When I got into the ambulance, the guy explained to me, he said 'man-your daughter is brave, she called 9-1-1, put the dog in the cage and opened the door for us."

As a result of her bravery, the Mayor of Lynwood will be giving Mia the key to the city. Dates says the first grader is taking her new found celebrity in stride.

"I woke her up this morning because I was excited I saw her on the news. I said 'Mia, you're on the news' and she said "dad, don't wake me up, I need to go to school," he laughed.

Mia Dates shows off her bravery award
Mia Dates shows off her bravery award Photo credit Xavier Dates

"She's a little bossy, " he laughed. "but she loves helping people," he paused choking back tears. "If Mia wasn't here there's no telling how long I would've been on that floor. My baby helped me out."

Mia was also honored on Martin Luther Kind Day with a special certificate of bravery. Her father says she now wants to be a first responder when she grows up. Clearly she's already on her way.

Xavier Bates & family
Xavier Dates & family Photo credit Xavier Dates
Featured Image Photo Credit: Xavier Dates