BRYANT, Arkansas — A Bryant police officer will be celebrating 5 years on the force this week— but this isn't your typical work anniversary.
Officer Samantha Hodgson has come a long way in her recovery, but she is still dealing with the impacts of that night.
Now, she has chosen to turn that pain into strength.
I've learned a lot," said Officer Hodgson. "The first little bit was challenging obviously."
On Christmas Eve 2019, just one year into her service at Bryant PD— Officer Hodgson was called to do a welfare check.
"In my mind, I'm going to help somebody," said Officer Hodgson.
However, she was the one who needed help instead. When she showed up, the man fired shots through his door which hit her in the face, neck, and shoulder.
"When I fell backwards, I opened my eyes and I see the guys looking over me and that's when it kind of clicked okay this can go one way or another," Officer Hodgson described.
She was med-flighted to a hospital and then spent 9 months at home recovering physically and mentally.
Now, she's a student resource officer in the Bryant schools hoping she can show the next generation that there's no reason to fear the badge.
"My goal by the time I retire is to bridge it.. Close that gap in one way or another," said Officer Hodgson.
When asked why she decided to stay on the force. she said it was because of her daughter.
"Just showing her there's no reason to give up. There's no reason to let it hold you down from your own goals," said Officer Hodgson.
She hopes to further her education and pursue a higher rank at Bryant Police Department.