37-year-old Manasa Loco from Nabua is being hailed a hero after rescuing 68-year-old widow, Maya Lata, who was trapped in rising floodwaters on Sunday night at Nabua Muslim League Settlement.
Speaking to fijivillage News, Loco says he had just returned from work at the CWM Hospital when he decided to check on the elderly woman, who lives alone in the settlement.
Loco says when he arrived, he found Lata’s home almost half submerged, with floodwaters rising upto her neck.
She was struggling and swimming inside the house, unsure of what to do.
He says he immediately broke into the house and pulled her to safety.
Loco spent the entire night caring for Lata at her home, keeping her warm and calm as the floodwaters continued to rise.
He adds yesterday morning, he took her to the hospital after noticing signs of a possible stroke.
Loco adds that Lata is currently admitted in serious condition at the CWM Hospital Emergency Department.
The 37-year-old says he is still helping clean up her home following the extensive damage caused by the flooding.
Loco is urging people to look out for one another, especially the elderly and vulnerable, during disasters.
He says lending a hand in times of need can save lives.
