CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. – James Edwards, the Coral Springs toddler who nearly drowned in his family swimming pool in June, has been released from the hospital.
"The first thing I said in a prayer was just, 'God, please give us the chance to take this little boy home.' And today's that day," uncle Todd Rodman said.
Edwards has captured the hearts of people all over South Florida and, thanks to social media, the world. He was released from Broward Health Medical Center on his second birthday.
His family has been channeling his fierce spirit by wearing T-shirts and posting pictures online of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Edwards' favorite cartoon. The "Turtle Power for James Edwards" seems to have caught on.
Strangers have posted words of encouragement to the family online and said they are paying forward good deeds in Edwards' honor.
Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill and other players visited Edwards in the hospital.
The Coral Springs Police Department sent Edwards a special police patch and a card for the family.
Through fundraisers in the community, the Edwards family has received some financial support for medical expenses. However, the toddler will need help eating and walking.
Rodman said the community support has been overwhelming and said he thinks the show of positivity has helped Edwards' recover.
"To have James home is just a true blessing," Rodman said. "And to have him home on his birthday is even better."