HOUGHTON LAKE — A local mother says her family has witnessed the true meaning of community after her son, Dustin Pratt, survived a severe burn accident this summer.
According to Dustin’s mother, Brittany Pratt, the accident happened July 18 when Dustin and his 14-year-old brother, Blake, built a bonfire at home. Dustin fell into the fire, suffering burns on 40% of his body.
Blake’s quick reaction saved his younger brother’s life, she said.
“Dustin got up and ran, and Blake chose to react, not freeze,” Pratt said. “He tackled his brother to the ground, putting the fire out and ripping the burning clothes off his little brother. He is our hero.”
Dustin sustained second-degree burns on 29% of his body and required skin grafts on his thighs and torso.
He also suffered burns on his legs, arms and upper body. He was airlifted to C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor and later transferred to Children’s Hospital of Michigan in Detroit for treatment.
Pratt said the Houghton Lake community immediately rallied behind the family. A GoFundMe campaign was launched by a family friend, and a local T-shirt company created and sold shirts to raise money.
Dustin’s teachers, friends and community members sent cards and care packages, while a group of 11-year-old boys organized a lemonade stand in his honor.
At a recent Bobcats vs. Bucks football game, the community hosted what they called “the race of the century” to support Dustin’s recovery.
“Today marks day 89 since Dustin’s accident, and he returned to school,” Pratt said. “Once again, we felt the love for Dustin in Houghton Lake.”
Students and staff held a “clap-in” to welcome him back, and at the end of the celebration, Dustin’s first-grade teacher, Mrs. Gross, and his friend Sloane surprised him with an autographed football and a jersey from his favorite Detroit Lions player, Amon-Ra St. Brown.
Throughout his recovery, the family has used the hashtag #BobcatsFightTogether — a phrase Pratt said embodies the spirit of their community.
“This is not just a hashtag; it is a true statement,” she said. “Houghton Lake means what they say. We are so blessed to be part of such an amazing community. I am so thankful for all of them.”