The parents of a boy who was rescued from the deep end of a swimming pool following a seizure have hailed the teaching assistant who saved his life a hero.
The drama unfolded on Monday, March 8, when Maes Y Coed pupil Daniel Matthews was climbing up the ladder at Pontardawe Swimming Pool following a lesson.
The 18-year-old, from Pont Street, Port Talbot, had an epileptic seizure and fell into the pool, sinking to the bottom. But quick thinking teaching assistant Dai Davies, who had been swimming with the pupils, sprung into action and jumped into the deep end and rescued the teenager.
Daniel’s parents took him to hospital, where he was given the all clear to return home.
Father-of-two Dai Davies said he didn’t think twice about jumping into the deep end and rescuing Daniel.
The 44-year-old from Hendy said: “I felt confident in rescuing Daniel but it’s something that anybody would have done in my position.
“I was in shock when I returned to school, but was given a few cups of hot, sweet tea before being sent home!!
“My colleagues presented me with a certificate and a few cans of lager to congratulate me for my actions, but there was no need I would do it again at the drop of a hat.”
Daniel’s parents Kath and Clive Matthews have hailed Dai as a hero.
Kath Matthews said: “Dai is one in a million. If all the people in the world were like Dai wouldn’t it be a wonderful place!”
Leader of Neath Port Talbot Ali Thomas has praised Dai Davies for his bravery.
He said: “It is reassuring for the parents of the pupils attending Maes Y Coed that the school has such dedicated members of staff.
“I would like to offer Mr Davies the Council’s personal thanks for his actions.”
