Boy Reunited With Cork Brothers Who Rescued Him From Drowning

A boy from Wexford, Dean, met his heroes. The Cork brothers saved him two years ago. They met at a local soccer game today. This was their first meeting since the rescue.

Dean chatted with James and Paddy McCarthy. They talked about sports for thirty minutes, acting like old friends, according to Dean’s mom
The rescue happened August 12, 2022, at Youghal Beach.

Dean was with his dad, Darren, that day. A strong riptide pulled Dean out to sea, almost 300 yards from shore. They visited Fota Wildlife Park before the swim.

Paddy and James saw Dean struggling and rushed into the water to help him. Two lifeguards aided them in the rescue while the brothers kept Dean afloat, even submerging their heads.

Siobhan said they did not discuss the Youghal event. Instead, they acted like they were old friends and spoke of other things. They had tickets to a Dublin kickboxing event, but it got cancelled, so they went to Cork.

Siobhan messaged the brothers’ mom, inviting them to James’ soccer match . Siobhan hugged her, feeling emotional, saying it was a moment with goosebumps and felt like they knew each other for years.

Siobhan stayed in touch online with James and Paddy, who were briefly whisked away after the rescue. Emergency services treated them for their efforts.

James stayed in the hospital for a week because of a stomach infection. Dean also went to the hospital later, showing signs of secondary drowning.

James and Paddy felt guided to save Dean. They weren’t supposed to be at that beach because two other swim spots rejected them earlier that day.

Dean became a successful kickboxer and now has seven All-Ireland titles. James and Paddy often commented online, encouraging Dean’s victories.

They finally talked about Dean’s wins in person. James shared boxing tips with Dean, as he had amateur boxing experience.

Siobhan described them as humble and genuine, noting how well they got along with Dean. She thanked them for saving her son and said she believes Dean would not be alive now otherwise.

Siobhan mentioned Dean rarely speaks of the event. Today they talked about sports, not the rescue, and James joked about losing his soccer match. Dean also plays soccer, and Siobhan hopes this meeting gave Dean closure.