health
February 4, 2026
An ‘amazing feat’: how was 13-year-old Austin Appelbee able to swim for four hours to save his family?
Saltwater, survival backstroke and sheer mind over matter may have helped the teenager save his family, experts say
TL;DR
- Austin Appelbee, 13, swam 4km and ran 2km to get help for his stranded family.
- His family's inflatable paddleboards and kayak were pushed offshore by strong winds.
- Experts described his feat as 'superhuman,' exceeding perceived limits.
- Fight-or-flight hormones and mental determination are cited as potential factors.
- The incident is compared to other cases of extraordinary endurance, including Yusra Mardini's rescue.
- Children's rapid recovery abilities and rapid hormone release in children are highlighted.
- Austin passed out from exhaustion after calling for help and was hospitalized.
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