Embarking on a well-deserved break, Angelo, a diligent 32-year-old plumber from Colorado, eagerly set off for a weekend getaway with his beloved family at Windsor Lake. As a water enthusiast, spending quality time by the lake was a cherished activity for him. Little did he know that his vacation would swiftly transform into a life-or-death situation when an unexpected encounter left him stunned.
While waist-deep in the refreshing lake waters, Angelo felt an unfamiliar object brush against his leg. Reacting swiftly, he kicked at it, propelling the mysterious item towards the surface. To his astonishment, he discovered that it was a tiny foot belonging to a three-year-old girl named Sitali. The chilling truth struck him instantly—Sitali’s body was as cold as ice.
Without hesitating for a moment, Angelo pulled the little girl out of the water, his urgency echoed by a piercing scream that aimed to attract attention and garner assistance from anyone nearby. Determined to unravel the mystery of this abandoned child in distress, he demanded answers about her identity and why she had been left unattended in the water. Sitali appeared lifeless, her delicate skin turning a bluish hue. Acting swiftly, Angelo enlisted the aid of two off-duty nurses and together they initiated cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in a desperate attempt to revive her.
The gravity of the situation attracted medical professionals to the scene, who promptly rushed the unconscious Sitali to the renowned Children’s Hospital in Aurora, Colorado. Deeply concerned for the little girl’s well-being, Angelo, even in the midst of his own family vacation, made the heartfelt decision to visit her at the hospital.
“I am going to let her know that she is loved and cherished, and she has become a part of my family,” Angelo expressed with unwavering determination.
The media hailed Angelo as a hero, but the humble plumber modestly dismissed such accolades. According to him, he was merely in the right place at the right time, responding instinctively to the dire situation as anyone with a compassionate heart would.
“When I laid my eyes upon that baby’s toes, she became my own,” he earnestly shared with Sitali’s grateful mother.
Thanks to Angelo’s prompt intervention, Sitali is expected to make a full recovery. Her lack of a life vest exposed her to the inherent dangers of the water, leading to the terrifying incident. Inspired by this experience, Angelo now aspires to safeguard other vulnerable children like Sitali. Determined to make a lasting impact, he has initiated a fundraising campaign to purchase life vests for families who are unable to afford them. Equipping children with this essential safety gear while they engage in water activities will help mitigate the risks of drowning.
The remarkable story of Angelo’s bravery reached the ears of CBS Denver, garnering a resounding response from the public. Many individuals expressed their admiration for Angelo’s selfless act of heroism. Here are some of the heartfelt comments shared:
“May God watch over him. Angelo’s quick thinking exemplifies the importance of a comprehensive approach in solving problems.”
“For goodness sake, people! When children are near water, vigilance is paramount. I still find myself anxious for my twelve-year-old, who fearlessly embraces life without recognizing its true perils. Let’s never take safety for granted, as our little ones are still learning.”
