A Manitoba boy has been honored by the Lifesaving Society for saving his younger brother from being swept away in the Ruby River near Kaneville in 2021.
Deegan Campbell received a Rescue Commendation Award on Thursday for his heroism in saving his 10-year-old brother, Atticus, from being pulled under a strong current in June 2021.
“The award recognizes individuals who acted with resourcefulness and courage to assist a person in a water-related rescue,” the Lifesaving Society said in a release.
Deegan said he was swimming in the river with Atticus and the currents were higher than normal.
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“While we were swimming, my brother got a little carried away in the river. And I didn’t really notice at all until I heard him yell.
Deegan’s brother was holding onto a part of a partially built beaver dam which slowed him down a bit.
“That allowed me to approach him,” he recalled. “I was trying to get to shore, but because of the currents and stuff, it took us a little further down the river.”
Deegan was going completely underwater and Atticus started pushing him down.
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“My brother was already under water and under water. He was frantic. So because he was panicking, he pushed me under water.”
Eventually, Deegan states that he was able to regain his breath and revive.
“Then I just crawl on the bottom of the river, whatever name you want to call it, with my brother on my back.”
It was an intense moment for everyone involved and Deegan is being commended for her quick thinking. He advised anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation to stay calm.
“Try to focus and try to assess what’s the best way to keep them safe.”
Deegan’s mother Kezia was at home and his father was at the river with her and Atticus at the time of the incident.
When asked about her son’s heroic action, she said, “I thank God he was there today.” He also pointed out how quickly the water level can change.
“We were there, I think, a week ago and there was hardly any water. There was barely enough for the kids to actually swim.
“But then, a few days ago when the kids went back with my husband, it was raining. Then the river went up a little. And then a strong current was created from that. You never know what the river is going to do.
Deegan was one of 17 Manitobans recently recognized for their quick thinking and efficient response.
And the Lifesaving Society said drowning is the third leading cause of unexpected death in the province.
“It’s kind of a weird feeling knowing that if it wasn’t for me, he probably wouldn’t be here.”
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