Introduction

Life is full of unexpected challenges, some of which can be quite harrowing. Two experiences in my life, one from my childhood and another from just a few months ago, have left an indelible impact on my understanding of the dangers of drowning and the importance of vigilance in the face of potential emergencies.

A Childhood Swim in Mazatlan

During my childhood, while we were on Christmas holidays in Mazatlan, I found myself in a particularly scary situation. At the age of 10, I was exploring the ocean for the first time and was wading in the shallow waters near the beach. I was not planning to swim and had my glasses with me, enjoying the stunning view. Suddenly, a massive wave struck, dragging me into the deeper waters. My glasses flew off, making it difficult for me to see. In a state of shock, I stopped breathing to avoid water in my nose and mouth. I was struggling to survive as the water felt too heavy. Just when I thought I would pass out, the wave abruptly let go, tossing me up on the shore. Mom was beside herself with worry, while dad seemed confused, having missed the whole incident. It was a harrowing experience that resulted in a new prescription for glasses, procured quickly and locally.

A Modern-Day Drowning Incident

Just a few months ago, I was lying on the bed and decided to drink a large mug of water. During this process, I sneezed and involuntarily inhaled hard, leading to water aspiration. My usual lung function is impaired due to previous lung damage from pneumonia. Consequently, my oxygen level, usually around 97, dropped to 51. This was a critical moment, and I nearly passed out. I managed to call emergency services, and after a week in the hospital receiving high-volume oxygen therapy, I was shifted to a nursing home to recuperate. If I had passed out before seeking help, the outcome could have been fatal or left me with brain damage.

An Unforgettable Experience

Another near drowning scenario involved my son at a pool party. I was at a motel with a pool where several in-laws, family members, my wife, and children were celebrating. The kids were having fun in the pool, while adults were fully dressed. My son was having a great time, swimming in the shallow end. However, he slipped into the deeper area, turned under the water, and couldn’t recover from it. Despite being in the vicinity, a dozen adults and kids in the pool did not notice. I entered the pool fully clothed, grabbed him, and brought him to safety. This incident was a stark reminder of how dangerous a seemingly harmless aquatic activity can be.

Personal Connection to Drowning

Coming from a family background that embraces the ocean, I grew up in Brazil, where swimming was a part of daily life. I mastered swimming and body surfing at a young age, often swimming a mile out to the reef and back before turning eight. Even in these experiences, a sense of familiarity with the ocean's unpredictability kept me safe. One notable case where I almost drowned involved a large wave that knocked me under the water, but it wasn’t a memorable event, just another of the many.

Reflections and Lessons Learned

These near-drowning experiences have taught me invaluable lessons about the importance of staying alert in water-related activities. It has also heightened my awareness in situations where others, especially children, may be at risk. While these incidents are traumatic, they serve as stark reminders of the importance of preparation and vigilance in preventing unfortunate outcomes.

Conclusion

From childhood adventures in Mexico to a frightening incident just months ago, my encounters with near drowning have been profound. These experiences have reinforced the critical importance of remaining aware and prepared to act quickly in aquatic emergencies. Whether it’s a family vacation by the ocean or a pool party, water safety should always be a priority.