KELOWNA - City workers Brad Cretin, Keith Brandt, and John Billington (left to right) didnt set out to do anything heroic, but by mid-day on Wednesday, October 27th, 2004 they had saved a woman from drowning in the lake by Sutherland Park where they were working.In a letter to the crew, CUPE BC President Barry ONeill recognized their courage, heroism and example. You have done CUPE proud, ONeill writes.
They modestly insist that they were just doing their job, but it was their conscientiousness and courage that ultimately led them to rescue the drowning woman.
The crew was working around the base on Knox Mountain, surveying Poplar Point Drive as it heads towards the lake. They heard some splashing in the water and went closer to investigate. They noticed that it was a young woman struggling to stay above water. Keith and Brad went to the shore and pulled her out while John called 911.
The woman was conscious, but not coherent and her breathing was highly erratic. They wrapped her in blankets until ambulance arrived with fire and two police cruisers.
Emergency services personnel credit the trio with saving her life.
We are happy the woman is still alive and recovering well, says CUPE 338 President Brent Soroka. We are also really proud of Brad, Keith and John for rescuing her.
While city workers may be out there to survey, garden or maintain a road, says ONeill. The truth is they are in the community on the streets, in the alleys and in the parks during their daily work in a position to preserve the safety and well-being of the public. And thats what these brothers have done.
This is the second time CUPE members have saved a drowning person in recent years.