A bird watcher saved a man’s life at Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio after discovering him in need of urgent help.
Sometimes, being in the right place at the right time isn’t just luck; it’s part of God’s plan. We often find ourselves in situations where we can make a difference. This bird watcher’s unexpected lifesaving encounter shows us how God places us where we need to be.
John Rolf, a nature enthusiast, was bird watching at Cuyahoga Valley National Park. He was searching for Cedar Waxwing birds near Ira Road, which he described as having “distinct red-tipped wings” and usually found in low brush areas. “You get the small songbirds down there, so I make it a habit to walk there and see the sunsets every night,” Rolf shared.
While scanning the trail with his binoculars, Rolf noticed something unusual. He saw a man clinging to a log in the river, struggling to stay afloat. Rolf immediately dropped his camera and binoculars but kept his phone to call 911.
“Quickly dropped the camera, binoculars, kept the phone because I thought maybe 911 wouldn’t be a bad idea,” he said. He stayed on the phone with the operator, trying to keep the man calm.
Rolf relayed instructions from the 911 operator to the man in the water, telling him, “Let go of the fishing pole, don’t worry about it.” The operator added, “Tell him to let go of the fishing pole, keep your legs wrapped tight.”
The man was exhausted, and according to Lt. Scott Cline of the Cuyahoga Falls Fire Department, “He didn’t have much longer left on him.”
If it weren’t for Rolf’s friend delaying their evening plans, he might not have been there to help. Rolf later asked the man why he wouldn’t let go of the fishing pole. The man replied, “It’s my grandson’s.” Rolf understood, saying, “I get it, you didn’t want to lose your grandson’s fishing pole.”
Rolf took a photo of the man still holding the fishing pole to remember the moment. Thankfully, after the rescue, Rolf also spotted and photographed a Cedar Waxwing, saying, “Always, I never come back without a picture of a bird.”
This incident serves as a reminder to be cautious around fast-moving water, as recommended by firefighters, because its depth can be unpredictable. The positive outcome of this story shows how critical it is to be vigilant and ready to help when needed.
Let us take inspiration from this bird watcher’s quick actions and remember that God is always watching over His children, protecting us from harm and sending people to help us in times of need. Let’s strive to be present and ready to act, bringing light and assistance to those around us.