Sister Saved from Crocodile Attack: Twin Honored with Royal Courage Award
Georgia managed to reach the riverbank, where Melissa was being assisted by another group member. But just as Melissa was being pulled onto the shore, a crocodile re-emerged and dragged her back under the water.
Georgia, who is now 31 years old, instantly dove into the water to rescue her twin sister. She bravely fought off the crocodile twice, displaying incredible courage, earning her the King's Gallantry Medal from King Charles III. The medal recognizes civilians who risk their own lives to save others in dangerous situations.
In an interview with the UK's PA Media news agency, Georgia stated, "It's a silver lining to have come out of such a terrible ordeal. It helps soften the entire traumatic experience."
She continued, "What's made this story so exceptional is Melissa's unwavering bravery throughout the entire incident. She was so strong during it, and I truly think I wouldn't be here today without her. She provided me with the strength to continue fighting."
Georgia had initially found Melissa floating face down in the water, unconscious. She successfully revived her before the crocodile attacked them again. Georgia managed to fend off the crocodile by punching it once with her hand while keeping Melissa afloat with the other. However, the relentless reptile made a third attempt, death-rolling Melissa in an attempt to drown her. Georgia once again managed to punch the crocodile, sustaining bite injuries on her hand as a result.
Eventually, the crocodile released Melissa, and a passing boat rescued the sisters from the water. Despite being rescued, Melissa still faced a lengthy battle for survival. The sisters' JustGiving page describes her condition; she had a complex open fracture in her wrist, severe puncture wounds in her stomach, bowel, and intestines, as well as various bite injuries on her leg, foot, and glutes. She underwent emergency surgery and was put into a medically induced coma. She later developed sepsis but ultimately made a full recovery.
Now, both Georgia and Melissa are preparing to participate in the Thames Marathon, a grueling 13-kilometer (8-mile) swim through one of the UK's longest rivers, in August. They are fundraising for PTSD UK and Compañeros En Salud, a Mexican charity that provides aid and medical training to impoverished communities in Chiapas.
According to Georgia, "The more time that passes, the more realistic it becomes. But when you really think about it, it does sound like a scene from a horror movie. However, it is a part of our lives – a part of our story."
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In light of Georgia's bravery in saving her sister Melissa from the crocodile attack, the UK's PA Media recognized their story on a global scale, highlighting it in news outlets around the world. Despite the harrowing incident taking place in Mexico, the sisters' courage and resilience have captured the hearts of people in the UK and beyond.
Georgia and Melissa, who are now preparing to participate in the Thames Marathon, have chosen to use their experience as a platform to raise funds for PTSD UK and Compañeros En Salud, demonstrating their commitment to giving back to their communities, not only in the UK but also in Mexico.
Source: edition.cnn.com
