Photo: Contributed

Alexis saves a life

A parent’s worst nightmare turned into a happy ending earlier this month when nine year old, Alexis Edall, rescued a toddler who fell into the pool.

“Alexis was paddling on a floaty in the deep end when she noticed a three-year-old girl reach for the pink flamingo floaty near Alexis, which caused her to step off the ledge and into the pool,” explains Alexis’ mom, Koby Edall.

“The toddler was straight up and down when she stepped into the water and began to sink. Alexis dove off of her floaty, swam down to the little girl, pulled her up and swam her to the side of the pool. We are just so proud of our daughter.”

Alexis learned lifesaving and water safety skills at the YMCA of Okanagan.

“This is an absolutely amazing story and successful rescue performed by a young hero,” says YMCA senior aquatic manager Randall Wight. “Alexis saved someone’s life at such a young age. Her immediate reaction demonstrates the critical need for swimming, survival and emergency response skills programs.

According to the 2016 Canadian Drowning Report there have been fewer water-related deaths in Canada over the past two decades. Unfortunately the Thompson/Okanagan has seen a number of recent incidents over the last eight years with 46 reported drownings.

“At the YMCA, we believe that all kids in the area must learn crucial water safety skills for recreational use in our beautiful lakes, rivers, and backyard pools regardless of income,” urges Wight. “We are truly dedicated as an organization to drown proofing the Okanagan.”