Josh Collette is paralyzed from the neck down after diving into the ocean to rescue a young child from a rip current.
Josh Collette was paralyzed from the neck down after heroically diving into the ocean to help a young child who was caught in a rip current at Riviera Beach in San Clemente, California. The 42-year-old father of five entered the water on August 15 to assist a child who was believed to be 7 or 8 years old. While the child was successfully rescued, Josh Collette struck a sandbar or rocks upon entering the water, resulting in an immediate spinal cord injury. His sister, Hillary Collette, reported that Josh Collette was unable to speak immediately following the accident, though he communicated by moving his lips. Doctors confirmed the injury resulted in paralysis from the neck down. The family has established a GoFundMe page to assist with medical bills and long-term therapy, which has already raised nearly $110,000. The family expressed gratitude for the support and noted that Josh Collette is currently working hard to reduce his reliance on medication during his recovery.