There is a common misconception that strong and confident swimmers don’t need the help of our volunteer surf lifesavers. Ross “Roscoe” Taylor, who is a volunteer surf lifesaver at Thirroul Surf Life Saving Club recently shared his story with us, with the hope that he could help spread the message that even surf lifesavers can be rescued. Thanks for sharing your experience Roscoe, we are so glad to hear you are safe and well. Roscoe’s story serves as a helpful reminder to always consider your own limitations and any medical considerations before entering the water.

 “I am a diabetic and a proficient lifesaver. Because I'm diabetic I always make a point of swimming with someone who knows I am diabetic. Not so long ago I went surfing with another club member. After a while we were separated, he returned to the beach and could not immediately locate me. After checking the showers he went back out to study the surf and saw me floating on my back some 70m from where we had been surfing. He knew I was in trouble and that I’d had a hypoglycaemic attack. He immediately alerted the patrol who completed a successful rescue. I had no idea of what I had been through until after I was literally force fed some fruit juice and started to come out from the hypo attack I had suffered. The purpose of my story is to let people know that even surf lifesavers can be rescued. If you are a diabetic, ensure that people know your condition and always swim with another person, after you have checked to ensure your sugar is at a safe level.”