I had just finished school when I went to Brisbane to spend summer with an old friend. It was a scorching hot day when her father suggested a trip to the beach in Maroochydore. When we got there it was blustery and choppy, so we decided to go in the shallows.
Next thing I knew, the water was past my knees, then it was past my chest, and then it dragged me under. Even though I had grown up near the beach and had done plenty of swimming in my time, I’d never come across a rip before, so I had no idea what was happening. I kept trying to swim up to the top of the water, but I’d make it to the surface, take one breath, then get pulled back down. I now know you’re meant to swim sideways to escape a rip but at the time all I wanted to do was get to shore, and I was failing spectacularly.
This went on for quite a while, and I was getting very tired. It felt unreal, to go for a swim and a few moments later be drowning. I remember thinking: my mother is going to be very annoyed with me for dying.
I was quite far out from the shore at this point and the last time I made my way to the surface, I heard a voice say, “Do you need a hand?” I was too out of breath to speak so I just nodded and this person, a surfer on his board, pulled me out and took me to the beach. I didn’t even see his face because I was so focused on getting to shore. Once I stumbled back on to the sand I didn’t tell my friend what had happened, too embarrassed to speak up and not wanting to spoil her day.
If that surfer hadn’t grabbed me, I’m sure I would have drowned, as so many Australians do at the beach. That would have been the end of my story. I was 18 then and I’m 74 now. I’ve had a long, happy and productive life thanks to that stranger whose face I never saw. I’d like to thank him from the bottom of my heart.
What is the nicest thing a stranger has ever done for you?
Share your experience
What’s the nicest thing a stranger has ever done for you?
From making your day to changing your life, we want to hear about chance encounters that have stuck with you.
Your responses, which can be anonymous, are secure as the form is encrypted and only the Guardian has access to your contributions. We will only use the data you provide us for the purpose of the feature and we will delete any personal data when we no longer require it for this purpose. For alternative ways to get in touch securely please see our tips guide.Show more
If you’re having trouble using the form click here. Read terms of service here and privacy policy here
