Colorado Girl Scout receives Medal of Honor for remarkable lifesaving act

Hayden Crist took initiative and saved her grandfather’s life

Girl Scout Ambassador Hayden Crist, 17, of Littleton was awarded the Girl Scouts Medal of Honor for saving the life of her grandfather, who was experiencing symptoms related to sepsis. The Girl Scout Medal of Honor is presented to young leaders who have shown heroism and sound judgment in an emergency to save a life without risk to their own.

Last December, Crist’s grandfather, Edward Bour, fell out of his chair while trying to stand. Crist found Bour, a diabetic and amputee, on the ground and in a state of confusion. Bour was unable to answer Crist’s questions, and his leg was noticeably red.

After assessing the scene, Crist called 911 despite her grandmother telling her not to and relayed her important observations and Bour's medical information to the dispatcher and paramedics when they arrived. She stayed calm and collected, reassuring her grandfather and making sure he didn’t do anything to worsen his condition.

Bour was taken to the hospital, where, after receiving professional treatment, was found to have sepsis, cellulitis, MRSA, and an altered state of mind. If Bour’s symptoms were left untreated, he would have gone into septic shock.

“Hayden's initiative and bravery in a critical moment demonstrate the very essence of what it means to be a Girl Scout,” said Leanna Clark, CEO of Girl Scouts of Colorado. “Her quick thinking saved her grandfather's life, and we are so proud to award her the Medal of Honor from Girl Scouts of the USA as a testament to her exceptional spirit.”

Crist was notified of her award at the Pikes Peak Highest Award celebration on Tuesday, May 13. Crist was also recognized for earning her Gold Award. Her Gold Award project, C.A.M.P.H.I.R., enriched the training program among overnight camp staff by creating a comprehensive health fair and training program.

Girl Scouts have been honored for meritorious deeds that have helped save lives since the inception of the organization 113 years ago. The Bronze Cross and Medal of Honor are the modern iterations of these awards.

May 21, 2025