Greenford Cyclists Save Woman In Canal

Adam Gajewski & Adrian Sobolewski praised after winter rescue


Picture: Marina Turner - John)

A Greenford residents' newsletter has highlight two 'unsung heroes'' who saved a woman's life.

In the week after Christmas, Adam Gajewski & Adrian Sobolewski had been on one of their regular early morning rides along the Grand Union Canal when they saw a woman in the water. They took immediate action which has been recounted in North Greenford Residents Association Magazine.

Aaron and Marina Turner-John write, ''... they spotted her body under the water and rushed to her aid. Once they had managed to get her out of the canal, Adam and Adrian called the paramedics. While they waited for them to arrive, they kept her talking and woke up local canal boat residents to collect blankets and clothing to warm her up. The lady told Adam and Adrian that she had lost all hope and felt that she had no other option. She had tried to get help from her GP but this had not been forthcoming and she had nowhere left to turn. Their courageous efforts saved her life for which she was very grateful. Hopefully she got the help and support she needed to get through a challenging time in her life.''

Mental Health problems have worsened across all age groups over the last year and according to the Office for National Statistics the proportion of adults with symptoms of depression has almost doubled since the start of the pandemic.

Research Funding has been made available for UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) projects to tackle COVID-19’s impact on mental health.

Chief Medical Officer for England, Professor Chris Whitty, is Head of the NIHR, he said, ''Mental health is one of the major challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated restrictions that have been needed to control it.

"This new research funded by NIHR and UKRI will help us to unpick the mental health impacts in several vulnerable groups, so we can identify those at risk sooner and make sure they can get the help they need."

The Samaritans say, ''The coronavirus pandemic is affecting the way many of us live our lives, and it's normal that this will affect people's mental health.''

They have listed tips and resources for anyone who has been struggling.

Samaritans volunteers are always available and you can call free day or night, on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.


Annemarie Flanagan

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24th March 2021