California Dad Paralyzed Saving Child From Riptide

When Josh Collette saw a young child struggling in a rip current at Riviera Beach in San Clemente, California, he didn't hesitate. The 42-year-old father of five ran past the child's mother and dove into the ocean on August 15.

But as he entered the water, Collette struck either a sandbar or rocks. The impact injured him immediately, and he told his wife right away that he believed he had broken his neck.

Several beachgoers rushed to help, pulling Collette from the water. The child he was trying to save was safely rescued before Collette was brought to shore.

Doctors later confirmed the devastating news. Collette was paralyzed from the neck down due to a spinal cord injury.

His sister Hillary told local news that Josh was unable to speak at first but communicated by moving his lips. The family expects him to regain his ability to speak as his recovery progresses.

Why This Inspires

What happened to Josh Collette is heartbreaking, but the response has been profound. His family created a GoFundMe to help with medical bills, long-term therapy, and support for his wife and five children during the difficult recovery ahead.

The community answered with overwhelming generosity. As of Sunday night, nearly $110,000 had been raised to help the Collette family navigate the challenges ahead.

In a recent update, the family shared that Josh is already fighting hard. "This guy hates medicine! He's trying hard to get off of everything... but, that's going to take some time," they wrote from his hospital bed.

They described days of both progress and setbacks, but their message remained hopeful. "We believe in miracles! We've already seen so many and thank everyone for the love, support, and prayers!"

The road ahead will be long for the Collette family, but they're not walking it alone.