Cameron Smyly, 7 year old son of Doug and
Nichole Smyly, killed his first deer December 18, 2007, in Washington
County, an 8 point buck with a 16.5" inside spread, which may not seem
like anything out of the ordinary, but Nichole told the Bragging
Post, "We were in a near fatal car accident October 5th of this
year (2007). Cameron suffered atlantooccipital dislocation or
internal decapitation. Yes, you read that right. A mere handful
of those who sustain this injury live and those who do often face
paralysis from the neck down. Remarkably, Cameron is living,
breathing, walking and talking proof that God does still flex those
miracle muscles of His once in a while. Just 2 months and 11 days
after undergoing spinal fusion surgery (which required a month long
hospital stay) Cameron was able to hunt in a ground blind with his
Dad, and kill his first deer with a cross bow! He couldn't climb a
tree stand or use a rifle due to the recoil, but he still managed to
get that first kill!
They'd given up for the day. Doug had just started
to get up and heard something, so they sat still to wait and sure
enough he came right out in front of the blind. Doug said he was
about 20 yards away, so he got Cam situated to shoot. He got him
propped up on the table and then Cameron aimed and watched. Then he
waited...and waited and waited, and finally Doug said you have to
shoot! So, he did! The deer ran about 15 yards and fell. Cam had
aimed for his shoulder, but hit him across the neck and pretty much
slit his throat. But! He got him! I honestly don't know who was more
excited, Doug or Cameron!"