NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. (WKBW) — Gary Atkinson is known around Sammy's Pizzeria in Niagara falls for his good deeds. He spends most of his time outside cleaning. He was outside picking up Tuesday when he slipped and fell. An 8th grader on his way to school saw the whole thing happen - and stepped up.
"It means by the grace of God I'm still alive," Atkinson said.
Atkinson was on the sidewalk cleaning up when Jy'Kwaun Platt saw him take a tumble. Platt is a 13-year old 8th grade student at Gaskill prep school. He stopped to help Atkinson.
"I waved somebody down and I told them to call the cops then I stayed there until the cops came," Platt said.
Atkinson wanted to thank Platt.
"If you see that kid out again, tell him I said thank you very much," Atkinson said.
Wednesday, with the help of 7 Eyewitness News, the two reunited and shook hands. Atkinson got the chance to thank Platt and offer him a little advice.
A Niagara Falls man meets the 8th grader who potentially saved his life by stopping and calling 911 after seeing the man slip fall. @WKBW pic.twitter.com/b5HNnuaIKc
— Olivia Proia (@OliviaProia) November 13, 2019
"Stick with it," said Atkinson. He said he hopes Platt sticks to helping people.
The Niagara Falls City Council and the school board will be honoring Jy'Kwaun for his good deed.
