A 12-year-old girl is being praised as a 'little hero' after her quick thinking saved her friend from drowning off the coast of Abergele, Conwy. Tamika and Sofia-Ann, 14, were paddling at Pensarn beach when they were suddenly overwhelmed by waves and pulled under the water. The dramatic incident unfolded on 28 May during a period of warm weather.
As the powerful waves dragged them beneath the surface, Sofia-Ann reportedly suffered a seizure. Demonstrating remarkable presence of mind, Tamika, despite also being pulled under, managed to grasp Sofia-Ann's long hair and pull her friend towards the safety of the beach. Emergency services, including rescue teams from Rhyl and Llandudno coastguard, North Wales Police, and the Welsh Ambulance Service, were dispatched to the scene after reports of three teenagers requiring assistance having been cut off by the tide.
Sofia-Ann, who was initially unresponsive, was transported by ambulance to Ysbyty Glan Clwyd in Bodelwyddan. Doctors successfully drained water from her lungs, and she has since recovered, spending a week resting at home. Her mother, Jade McKenna, expressed immense gratitude for Tamika's actions, stating, "I'm so grateful for Tamika. She put herself in more danger to save Sofia-Ann, she's my little hero."
Tamika's mother, Shantika, shared the profound shock felt by both families, admitting the thought of what could have happened would "forever haunt me." She highlighted her daughter's bravery, noting Tamika's focus remained on Sofia-Ann despite being dragged under herself. The incident has left both girls and their families shaken, with Tamika reportedly hesitant to return to the beach for some time.
Further seizures experienced by Sofia-Ann in the ambulance are currently under investigation to determine their cause. This harrowing event serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable dangers of the sea, even in seemingly calm conditions, and the critical importance of water safety awareness.