Alligator attack victim puts focus on rescuers

CHARLESTON

Bill Hedden said God was looking over him on the day an alligator tore off his left arm as he swam in Lake Moultrie.

Speaking in public for the first time since the accident last September, Hedden, 60, said he wants to keep the attention on those who helped him that day.

Doctors said Hedden might have bled to death if not for the quick action of a group of nurses picnicking at Short Stay Naval Recreational Park as part of last year’s Bicol Association of Charleston’s annual celebration.

-- The Associated Press

This story was originally published September 22, 2008 at 6:52 AM with the headline "Alligator attack victim puts focus on rescuers."