Dramatic video shows teen lifeguard rescuing child from relentless surf
· Toronto Sun
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The frantic rescue of a child swept into powerful waves on a California beach was captured in heartstopping video.
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Footage of the heroic lifeguard, later identified as a 16-year-old high school student named Ryder by local outlet KNTV , jumped into the wild waters of Seabright Beach in Santa Cruz, Calif., after he was alerted to a child struggling in the rough waves.
The young child Ryder rescued is believed to be about 10 years old, according to the outlet.
Video shared widely on social media shows the teen lifeguard diving into the water, appearing to gulp enough air before ducking beneath each crashing breaker and battle the dangerous swells to reach the child.
Despite the pair getting enveloped by the unforgiving waves, Ryder held on tightly to the child in a bear-like hug as other beachgoers attempted to help.
‘Changed in a heartbeat’
Scott Vander Dussen, who filmed the video, told the outlet that the waves were “normal” but then “changed in a heartbeat.”
He added: “It caught a lot of people off-guard. Unfortunately, this young man was overwhelmed and swept out in just a moment’s time.”
The exhausted lifeguard ultimately was able to pull the boy back to shore, getting help from another lifeguard before others rush over to try to keep them from getting further swept away.
The child was evaluated by paramedics after reuniting with his grateful family, the outlet reported.
Lifeguard’s mom speaks out
Ryder’s mother thanked supporters for the outpouring of praise, and responded to requests for a GoFundMe page by insisting her son was simply doing what he loves.
“I am blown away by the love, kindness, gratitude and respect you’re sending his way!” she said, per Fox News .
“A few people have asked about a GoFundMe — but honestly he was just doing the job that he absolutely loves.”
She instead encouraged those wishing to support Ryder to donate to the Santa Cruz County Parks Department’s Junior Guards program, where she said Ryder and many of his fellow lifeguards trained before becoming old enough to serve, according to Fox.
Trumps weigh in
The rescue prompted President Donald Trump to recognize the lifeguard’s heroic efforts on his Truth Social account.
“We’re going to bring this heroic young man, and his family, into the White House with, perhaps, the boy he saved, to give him a High Civilian Honor. Very brave, he deserves it!,” he wrote.
The president’s statement comes after his son, Eric Trump, suggested the lifeguard receive a reward.
“Give this 16-year-old lifeguard the highest civilian honor,” Eric wrote. “This is truly the best of America. Well done!”