A 28-year-old father tragically lost his life after heroically rescuing two people from drowning at a wild swimming spot while enjoying a family picnic. Rushabh Patel, described as a loving husband and devoted father, was with his family at Newport Pagnell Beach near Milton Keynes on May 24 when he spotted two swimmers struggling in the water.
The Heroic Rescue
Without hesitation, Mr. Patel jumped into the River Great Ouse to save the pair. He managed to bring both swimmers to safety, but sadly lost his own life in the process. Emergency services rushed to the scene, and he was airlifted to Milton Keynes University Hospital. Despite doctors' efforts, he was pronounced dead on May 28. It is believed he suffered a cardiac arrest after entering the cold water.
Organ Donation Saves Five Lives
Following his death, Mr. Patel's organs were donated, saving the lives of five other people. His brother, Aman, paid tribute: "Rushabh's final act on this earth was one of extraordinary courage and sacrifice. He gave his life while saving others. He was a hero in every sense of the word."
Fundraiser for Family
A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Mr. Patel's wife, Mili, and their 18-month-old daughter, Vrumi. The page states that Mr. Patel, originally from India, moved to the UK to create a better future for his young family. It reads: "He was a loving husband, a devoted father, a caring son, and a loyal friend whose kindness touched everyone who knew him." And: "A little girl, only 18 months old, has lost the father who will never get the chance to watch her grow up."
Heatwave Water Deaths
Mr. Patel was one of 18 victims who died in water-related incidents during the Bank Holiday heatwave in the UK. Among them was a 13-year-old girl pulled from waters in North Yorkshire and a woman in her 60s who died trying to rescue her dog from the sea. The RNLI has warned about cold water shock, which can cause uncontrollable gasping, increased blood pressure, and panic leading to drowning.
