Mr. Alex Scott - Braving the Freezing Water

Alex Scott is a 24-year-old student of the University of New Brunswick. On February 27, Golden Year 5 (2008), he and his friend Robert Foley were on the Saint John waterfront when they heard someone shouting for help. They rushed to the railing by the lighthouse and saw a man thrashing in the water. Alex leaped over the railing and into the frigid harbor after Robert made a 911 call. Alex was in the water for about five minutes as he tried to keep the man's head above water. Police, firefighters and paramedics were on the scene in minutes and a rescue line was thrown over the railing. Alex grabbed the rope, tucked it under his arm, and the two were pulled toward shore. Alex was treated in the hospital for hypothermia and later recovered. Unfortunately, the man he tried to save did not survive.

Hearing of Alex's courageous rescue attempt, Supreme Master Ching Hai honored him with the Shining World Hero Award. On May 18, fellow initiates from the Montreal Center presented the beautiful crystal plaque Award and various gifts to Alex at his home. Alex felt immense happiness and honor upon receiving the Award and said he liked the "Hero" T-shirt and wonderful books from Master.

After the ceremony, everyone enjoyed a vegetarian barbecue prepared by our Association members. Later, Alex took the initiates to the place where he had jumped into the water in an attempt to save the man's life, and explained he is working with the municipal officer to make some improvements along the harbor boardwalk. Thank you, Alex, for being such a compassionate, courageous hero and an inspiration to us all.