Inspiring Heroine: Jamey Ruth Klassen Saves Kayaker from Drowning in Georgian Bay

Aiden Starling

Updated Sunday, September 22, 2024 at 12:00 AM CDT

In a heart-pounding tale of bravery and quick thinking, 16-year-old high school student Jamey Ruth Klassen showcased extraordinary heroism by saving the life of Christopher G. Robertson, a 40-year-old kayaker, in Georgian Bay, Collingwood, Ontario. Robertson's kayak capsized, leaving him submerged and unconscious, but thanks to Jamey's swift actions, his life was spared.

The incident unfolded when Robertson's kayak took on water and capsized. Holding onto his overturned kayak, Robertson called for help. Jamey, who was on the beach at the time, immediately sprang into action. She swam approximately 600 feet to reach the kayak. By the time she arrived, Robertson had already submerged beneath the water's surface. Without hesitation, Jamey dived 12 feet to pull the unconscious man to safety.

Demonstrating remarkable strength and composure, Jamey positioned Robertson face up, with his head resting on her shoulder. He was not breathing, and time was of the essence. Grasping him around the chest with one arm, Jamey used her other arm and legs to swim back toward the shore. Nearly exhausted, she shouted for help, and a man on a paddleboard responded. Together, they placed Robertson onto the paddleboard and brought him to shore.

Once on shore, Robertson was revived and subsequently taken to a hospital, where he received treatment and made a full recovery. Jamey's heroic efforts did not go unnoticed, as she has been recognized for her bravery with accolades, including being featured on the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission's website.

The community has lauded Jamey as a true hero, with many expressing admiration for her selflessness and courage. Comments from onlookers highlight the significance of her actions, with one user noting, "She is my favourite human of the week," while another remarked, "That's a true hero, someone driven by an unconditional commitment to sustaining life, no matter the cost."

This inspiring story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have in a life-or-death situation. Jamey Ruth Klassen's bravery and quick response not only saved a life but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the incredible feats that can be accomplished through determination and courage.

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View source: Imgur

Top Comments from Imgur

CommentsThisTimeLastYear

600 feet out and back is just under 1/4 mile (0.4 km), half of it pulling an unconscious body. Oh and then the dive. Seriously strong swimmer!

MagicSpiderP***Hat

Why was that dude out kayaking without a life vest if he couldn't swim?

FauxFoxPaw

What a f***ing hero.

PigsWeGetWhatPigsDeserve

Can we talk about the d***** who went out to sea in a kayak without being able to swim or wearing a life vest, effectively putting two lives at risk? I feel a steep, steep fine is in place.

HzZbVYAx77aoiuN9Zy

Looks like she got some award https://www.carnegiehero.org/hero-search/jamey-ruth-klassen/

dbox

Strong girl, sea?

tzahtman

The description of her rescue is the basic rescue swim taught to all life guards, pretty sure Navy and Marines are taught as well, so I'm guessing she has some training.

MisterLemons

Strong swimmer. Farm?

Comadus

That’s a true hero, someone driven by an unconditional commitment to sustaining life, no matter the cost. I’d love to meet her; she would be such an inspiration to so many. Treasure her, people like her are truly one of a kind.

whatwhenwherewhyhowwho

She is my favourite human of the week

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