Stephen Wharton: Heroic Firefighter Risks Life to Rescue Young Boy | Pride of Britain 2021

Kacper Krauze, 13, attempted to swim across the River Eden in February 2019. Despite the unseasonably warm weather, the icy water caused his body to go into shock, and he sank to the bottom. Appleby fire and rescue officers, were the first responders. Volunteer Crew manager Stephen Wharton and Volunteer firefighter John Bell entered the river, supported by colleagues from the bank. After a brief search, they found Kacper under two to three meters of water. Stephen removed his flotation gear to dive down and rescue him. Kacper had been underwater for about 25 minutes and was in cardiac arrest when brought to the bank. Paramedics resuscitated him, and he was airlifted to the hospital, where he spent weeks in intensive care but has since recovered. His mother called Stephen her hero, saying it’s a miracle Kacper survived. Stephen expressed happiness that Kacper returned to his family, emphasising the teamwork involved. Chief fire officer Steve Healey praised the exemplary handling of the high-pressure situation. Subscribe to our YouTube channel:    / @prideofbritainawards   Follow us on X: https://x.com/PrideOfBritain Like us on Facebook:   / prideofbritain   Follow us on Instagram:   / prideofbritain   Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@prideofbritai... For more content go to: https://www.prideofbritain.com/ #prideofbritain #prideofbritainawards