A father of five from California has suffered paralysis from the neck down following a heroic attempt to rescue a child caught in a rip current.
Josh Collette, aged 42, was enjoying a day at Riviera Beach in San Clemente with his family on August 15. During their outing, a young boy, estimated to be around 7 or 8 years old, became trapped in a dangerous current, as recounted by his sister, Hillary Collette, to the news station KTLA.
Witnessing the child’s distress, the mother initially jumped into the water to save her son. However, Josh Collette sprinted past her, diving headlong into the ocean in a desperate bid to rescue the child, according to Hillary’s account.
Tragically, Josh was left paralyzed after his valiant dive into the ocean, where he struck a submerged sandbar or rocks, rendering him unable to move from the neck down. This heart-wrenching incident has sparked a wave of support and fundraising efforts to assist his recovery.
As he entered the water, Collette’s sister said he struck either a sandbar or rocks and was immediately injured.
Several people then rushed to his aid and helped pull him from the water. He told his wife right away that he believed he had broken his neck.
The child Josh Collette was attempting to help was safely pulled out of the water before Collette was brought from the water, his sister said.
Collette’s sister said doctors told the family that Josh Collette was paralyzed from the neck down.
Josh Collette inadvertently hit either a sandbar or rocks after entering the water, injuring him immediately. (GoFundMe)
His sister said he was unable to speak but communicated by moving his lips; she said the family expects him to regain his ability to speak.
His family created a GoFundMe as they prepare to help with medical bills, long-term therapy and support for the family as they navigate the long and difficult recovery ahead.
“Josh was hurt in an ocean accident on Sat Aug 15th he has a spinal cord injury,” a family member wrote on the fundraiser. “The road ahead will be long, and the recovery will not be easy, we’re holding on to hope.”
“We believe in miracles! We’ve already seen so many and thank everyone for the love, support, and prayers!” the fundraiser added. “Please keep praying for miracles! Its working!”
Josh Collette with his wife and five children. (GoFundMe)
In an update shared on Friday, the family said it will take some time for him to no longer need medicine. The family also shared a picture of Josh Collette from his hospital bed.
“Yesterday was so positive and productive! So, it was hard to have a day with less progress. This guy hates medicine! He’s trying hard to get off of everything… but, that’s going to take some time. Thank you so much for all the prayers, love, and support. We love you all so much and feel so loved by all the help you’ve given us. We’re hanging in there and so grateful for all of you,” the family wrote on the fundraiser.
The GoFundMe has raised nearly $110,000 as of Sunday night.