Vacationing Firefighter Helps Save Man

Massachusetts firefighter Michael Desouza helped save a 75-year-old priest while vacationing on the island, pulling the man to shore and performing CPR after he was found unresponsive in the water.

The New Bedford Fire Department posted the photo below online, saying, “The New Bedford Fire Department is pleased to announce that one of our Firefighters who was vacationing in Bermuda with his family, along with a 911 Dispatcher for the City of Waltham, MA were credited with the rescue and resuscitation of an elderly male involved in a near drowning incident.

“While at the beach, FF Michael Desouza and the 911 Dispatcher were made aware of an elderly male unresponsive in the water. The 75year old male was found floating in about 2 feet of water next to his elderly brother. They brought the male ashore and was found to be unresponsive, not breathing, and pulseless. Once out of the water, they initiated CPR. After performing chest compressions for a short time, the male patient experienced a return of spontaneous circulation [ROSC] and became semi-conscious. Two surgeons who were nearby on the beach arrived to assist with patient care after CPR was initiated. The patient was transported to a local hospital.

“The patient is a Catholic priest from Halifax, Nova Scotia Canada and was on the cruise with his family celebrating his 50th anniversary of ordination as a priest. He recovered fully and was able to return home.

“FF Desouza exemplifies what the New Bedford Fire Department’s slogan ‘Service Above Self’ means. His lifesaving actions illustrate that the knowledge and skills learned as a firefighter can be called upon to save a life no matter where in the world you might be.

“FF Desouza is assigned to Ladder Company 3.”

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