NEWTON COUNTY, MO (KY3/Gray News) – A 10-month-old baby was released from the hospital after fighting for his life after his mother’s boyfriend admitted to giving him a “bear hug,” authorities say.

Waylon’s family says the injuries he suffered will have a lasting effect on his life.

“He was basically reset to a newborn,” his father Tyler Burbridge said.

Waylon spent about a month and a half in the hospital in critical condition.

In September, authorities say Waylon was placed in a baby sweater by his mother who walked away to use the bathroom.

Her boyfriend at the time, Jordan Boggess, picked up Waylon and tossed him into the air, but missed his catch on the second throw. Boggess told authorities he then “hug” Waylon until he stopped crying.

“Basically, he took my son’s life. He took my son’s future. You don’t throw a baby in the air,” Burbridge said.

Waylon’s family says his life has been changed forever.

“Right now, as far as we know, he can’t see. He can’t sit down. He can barely lift his head. He’s going to have to do a lot of physical therapy,” Burbridge said.

Waylon’s mother, Bessie McCamish, said the main focus was Waylon’s recovery.

Boggess is charged with child abuse and is due in court next month.

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