A California father of five was paralyzed from the neck down after diving into the ocean to rescue a child caught in a rip current on August 15, according to his family. Josh Collette, 42, was at Riviera Beach in San Clemente when the incident occurred, his sister, Hillary Collette, told KTLA.
Collette struck either a sandbar or rocks upon entering the water, immediately injuring himself. Several bystanders assisted in pulling him from the ocean. He reportedly told his wife he believed he had broken his neck. The child he attempted to help was safely rescued before Collette was removed from the water.
Doctors later confirmed Collette’s paralysis from the neck down. His sister stated he was unable to speak but communicated by moving his lips, with his family expecting him to regain speech over time.
Family Launches Fundraiser for Medical Costs
A GoFundMe campaign was established to cover medical bills, long-term therapy, and family support during recovery. The fundraiser describes Collette’s injury as a spinal cord injury sustained in an ocean accident on August 15. The family expressed gratitude for support and prayers, stating, “We believe in miracles! We’ve already seen so many and thank everyone for the love, support, and prayers!”
Background on the Incident
The child, believed to be between 7 and 8 years old, was caught in a rip current. Collette’s sister noted that the child’s mother initially entered the water but Collette ran past her to assist. The family has not provided further details about the child’s identity or condition following the rescue.
Collette’s injury has prompted an outpouring of support, with the fundraiser emphasizing the long and difficult recovery ahead. The family has requested continued prayers and donations to aid in their efforts.