A 13-year-old boy is being called a hero after he swam for hours through rough seas to save his mother and two younger siblings off the coast of Western Australia, the Associated Press reported.
The family from Perth was kayaking and paddleboarding when strong winds and big waves pulled them out to sea. As conditions worsened, Austin Appelbee decided to swim to shore for help. He swam about four kilometers through cold, rough water, leaving behind his inflatable kayak and life jacket to keep going. When he finally reached land, completely exhausted, he was able to pass along the message.
Rescue teams were called and a helicopter later found Austin’s mother, Joanne Appelbee, and his younger brother and sister drifting about 14 kilometers from shore. In total, they spent almost 10 hours in the cold water.
Police said Austin’s actions were brave and lifesaving. His mother said sending her oldest child for help was the hardest thing she had ever done.
«I have three babies. All three made it. That was all that mattered,» Ms. Appelbee said.
