Doris Heltman Fisk, 32, housewife, saved Michael L., 10, and Bernice B. Ryan, 35, from drowning, Mooers, New York, July 1, 1952. While wading in the Big Chazy River, Michael, who could not swim, slipped into deep water 30 feet from the bank and was submerged briefly. He rose floundering and drifted in a current of three-quarters m.p.h. His mother, a poor swimmer, swam to him but could make no progress in attempting to tow him to the bank. She was submerged twice by him and became unconscious. Fully clothed, Mrs. Fisk, who was in an advanced state of pregnancy, waded into the river and swam 25 feet downstream pushing a five-foot plank and reached Michael. Just as Mrs. Fisk took hold of Michael and pinned him firmly against the plank, Mrs. Ryan rose two feet away. Maintaining her hold on Michael, she drew Mrs. Ryan to the plank and swam pushing them 15 feet across the current to wadable water. Michael was carried from the water by others, and Mrs. Fisk waded to the bank supporting Mrs. Ryan, who was revived. Mrs. Fisk and Michael were nervous. All recovered. 3852-42597
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