Lifesaving cop to learn to swim
2008-02-08 10:23
Karen Ebersohn
Groblershoop - A policeman who risked his life to save the lives of three drowning children, will soon fulfil one of his greatest wishes - to learn how to swim.
Beeld recently reported how Constable Masire Tathebe, 28, who had never learnt to swim, saved three boys from possible death by drowning in a quarry.
A businesswoman from Pretoria, who wished to remain anonymous, read the report and decided to help Rathebe learn to swim.
"I regularly read the newspaper and after reading it, I always think of ways to make a contribution to the community we live in," she said.
"The report on the policeman who could not swim but still decided to save the boys' lives, touched me."
Meaningful contribution
She then decided to pay for swimming lessons for him.
"If this policeman can learn to swim, he might be able to make a meaningful contribution to his community in some other way one day."
She said she hoped her willingness would inspire others to get involved in their communities. "If everybody makes a difference somewhere, we can start building our nation."
The woman said if the swimming lessons were a success, she would like to launch a project to teach the children of Groblershoop to swim.
Water safety
Rathebe was delighted to hear that he would be able to learn to swim.
"It's a big surprise, I always wanted to learn to swim. I want to thank the woman from the depth of my heart and encourage her to keep doing good to others," he said.
Rathebe said he would one day also like to teach his own children to swim and inform the children of the community about water safety.
"I think I will be able to do my job better after the swimming lessons. I'm terribly thankful."
Groblershoop police spokesperson Inspector Wilna Basson said the police wanted to thank the woman for her kindness and initiative.
She said Rathebe's swimming lessons would be organised.
- Beeld