Rescue at Pensarn Beach
A 12-year-old girl has been hailed a "little hero" after rescuing her friend from drowning by pulling her out of the sea by her hair following a seizure. Tamika and Sofia-Ann, aged 14, were paddling at Pensarn beach in Abergele, Conwy, when they lost their footing and were suddenly pulled underwater.
Sofia-Ann experienced a fit while in the water, but Tamika acted quickly, grabbing her long hair and dragging her to safety on the beach.
Medical Response and Recovery
Initially unresponsive, Sofia-Ann was transported by ambulance to Ysbyty Glan Clwyd hospital in Bodelwyddan. Medical staff drained water from her lungs, and she has since recovered.
Family Reactions
Sofia-Ann's mother, Jade McKenna, expressed deep gratitude towards Tamika for her bravery.
"I'm so grateful for Tamika. She put herself in more danger to save Sofia-Ann, she's my little hero."
"Thankfully Tamika acted quickly and grabbed Sofia by her hair to pull her up and on her back to get her out the water."
Incident Details and Rescue Efforts
The incident occurred on 28 May during a heatwave. The Coastguard received reports concerning three teenagers who required assistance after being cut off by the tide. Rescue teams from Rhyl and Llandudno were dispatched, alongside North Wales Police and the Welsh Ambulance Service.
During the ambulance journey, Sofia-Ann experienced additional seizures. The cause of these seizures is currently under investigation.
Ongoing Concerns and Support
Jade McKenna emphasized the dangers of the sea and the emotional impact of the incident.
"I'm always telling her the dangers of the sea,"
"This hit me so hard that I could have lost her."
She added that Sofia-Ann is now recovering at home after a week of rest.
"She's OK now after a week home resting."
Jade also acknowledged the women present at the beach who raised the alarm and assisted the girls until emergency services arrived.
Family Perspectives on Tamika's Bravery
Tamika's mother, Shantika, described the event as a shock and shared her concerns.
"It was quite a shock. The thought will forever haunt me."
"Tamika got dragged under as well but she still focused on Sofia and getting her out of the water."
Shantika relayed that Jade had told her that without Tamika's intervention, Sofia-Ann might have died.
"I don't think Tamika will want to go to the beach for a very long time."
"My biggest fear is drowning,"
"I thought my daughter was very brave."
