SAN CLEMENTE, Calif. — A family beach outing at Riviera Beach turned into a life-changing emergency for a San Clemente father who rushed into the Pacific Ocean to help a child caught in a rip current.

Josh Collette, 42, was at the beach with his family on Aug. 15 when he noticed a child, believed to be around 7 years old, struggling in the waves.

According to Josh’s sister, Hillary Collette, who spoke with a local news outlet, the child’s mother initially went into the water to try to reach the youngster.

Josh then sprinted into the ocean himself. His decision to help ultimately came at a devastating personal cost.

Josh Suffers Severe Injury in the Water

Moments after entering the ocean, Josh struck either rocks or a sandbar, suffering a severe injury. Beachgoers immediately rushed to help and worked to bring him back toward shore.

Josh was conscious enough to tell his wife what he believed had happened. He told her that he thought he had broken his neck.

The seriousness of the injury soon became clear after Josh was taken for medical treatment. Doctors later told his family that he had been paralyzed from the neck down.

The injury has left the father of five facing an uncertain and difficult recovery. Despite the circumstances, his family said Josh has remained in good spirits.

Child Josh Tried to Rescue Gets Out Safely

The child Josh had rushed into the water to help ultimately made it safely out of the ocean before Josh was rescued. That outcome has provided some comfort to the family as they deal with the devastating consequences of Josh’s injury.

His sister said Josh has not yet been able to speak, although doctors have told the family that they expect he will eventually regain that ability.

For now, his relatives remain focused on his recovery and supporting him through the early stages of what could be a long rehabilitation process.

Family Faces Long Road to Recovery

Josh’s family expects his recovery to involve extensive medical care, therapy and other long-term expenses.

Relatives have started an online fundraiser to help the father of five manage medical bills, rehabilitation costs and other expenses associated with his injury.

The family has also emphasized its determination to remain hopeful despite the difficult road ahead.

“The road ahead will be long, and the recovery will not be easy, we’re holding on to hope,” a family member wrote on the GoFundMe.

The message also thanked people who have supported Josh and his family since the accident.

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“We’ve already seen so many [miracles] and thank everyone for the love, support, and prayers!”

Family Holds Onto Hope for Josh

The incident has left Josh facing a dramatically different future than the one he expected when he arrived at Riviera Beach with his family.

His attempt to help a child in danger resulted in a life-altering spinal injury, but the child he entered the water to help survived.

Now, Josh’s loved ones are focused on his recovery and the possibility of regaining movement and communication abilities as treatment continues.

The family says the road will be long, but they remain hopeful as Josh begins what they expect to be an extensive rehabilitation journey.

What do you think about Josh’s decision to rush into the water to help the child? Share your thoughts and messages of support in the comments.