Andre III “Trey” Howard, the 10-year-old boy who heroically protected his younger sister during the deadly plane crash in Northeast Philadelphia on January 31, has miraculously woken up from brain surgery, and his first words were both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Trey, struck by flying debris from the medical transport jet crash, was rushed to Jefferson Torresdale Hospital where he underwent emergency brain surgery.
Doctors initially warned his family that there was a strong chance he might not survive. However, after the surgery, Trey awoke and immediately inquired about two things: his sister’s safety and the upcoming Super Bowl.
His father, Andre Howard Jr., recalled, “He asked me, ‘Daddy, what’s today?’ I was like, ‘Monday.’ ‘OK, wait. We didn’t play yesterday, did we?’ ‘No, you didn’t miss the Super Bowl.'”
But what moved Andre to tears were the words Trey said next: “Daddy, did I save my sister?”
Andre explained, “It had me crying.”
According to his father, Trey recalled the moments before the crash, saying, “You told us to get down. I was just trying to help my sister … next thing I know, I thought I died.”
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The tragic accident occurred when Trey, his younger siblings, and their father were in the car picking up donuts.
As debris from the plane crashed into their car, Trey instinctively told his sister to “get down” and shielded her from the danger. Tragically, a piece of metal struck his head in the process.
The family rushed to get help, and Andre tried to stop the bleeding using a pair of socks and another man’s shirt before emergency responders arrived.
The heroic efforts of both Trey and his father have been nothing short of remarkable.
“It’s bittersweet,” Andre said. “I’m glad he listened, but that’s my job, not his job, to protect his sister.”
The community has rallied behind Trey, with NBA player Tyrese Maxey visiting him in the hospital. Trey, overjoyed, exclaimed, “Daddy, I’m a celebrity.” His father responded, “No, you’re bigger than a celebrity. You’re a superhero.”
Trey is now recovering at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where he continues to heal from his injuries.
His bravery and love for his sister have touched the hearts of many, and his journey toward recovery is one that continues to inspire those around him.
