CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — There is a wave of gratitude flowing through the Hughes family in Champaign after a 9-year-old boy discovered his great grandmother injured on the floor with a head wound.

He quickly, and calmly let his grandma know she was hurt. Now, WCIA 3 is recognizing Brai’den Daugherity as Tuesday night’s everyday hero.

Willie Brown is thankful to be alive… and it’s all thanks to her great grandson Brai’den Dougherity.

“When it happened, I was unsure of the situation but wanted to be courageous to understand what was happening so I could ensure my granny’s safety,” Brai’den said.

His grandmother is Tasha Hughes.

“If it wasn’t for Brai’den, I don’t know,” Hughes said. “And I thank God he was here this summer.”

Brai’den’s great grandmother fell and hit her head on a dresser, leaving her bleeding and unresponsive in the bedroom but Brai’den was brave.

“Just had to stay calm, stayed calm for some reason, but I just wanted to be helpful and do what I have to do to help my granny out,” Brai’den said.

It was an act deserving of a thank you.

Brai’den’s family said he really likes plushy toys, so his grandma said a couple of those are coming as another thank you in his future.