A park accident in Essex left a 5-year-old girl with a serious hand injury, and firefighters did not stop at the scene.
Olive Cook-Taylor was hurt while playing on a roundabout at a park in Hockley, England, according to Essex County Fire and Rescue Service.
As Olive was taken to Southend Hospital for emergency treatment, firefighters stayed at the playground and searched the area for the parts of her injured hand that surgeons would need. After finding them, the crew placed them on ice and took them to the hospital under emergency lights.
Olive was later transferred to Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford, where surgeons successfully reattached her fingertips.
Eight weeks later, Olive visited Rayleigh Weir Fire Station to thank the firefighters who responded that day. She toured the station, met members of Red Watch and gave the crew paintings she had made.
Her mother, Linda, said the family was deeply grateful.
“Everything happened so quickly, and while Olive was being taken to hospital, the firefighters were still doing everything they could to help,” she said.
“We’re incredibly grateful for what they did that day. Their determination and care meant so much to us as a family.”
She added, “It’s amazing to see how well Olive is recovering. She’s been so brave.”
During the visit, firefighters gave Olive a Certificate of Bravery signed by Chief Fire Officer Rick Hylton, recognising the courage she has shown during her recovery.
Group Manager Dave Walpole praised the crew’s response.
“Our firefighters showed great professionalism, determination and care in supporting Olive and her family,” he said.
“While Olive was receiving treatment, crews remained focused on doing everything they could to assist.”
He said Olive’s resilience throughout her recovery had been “remarkable.”
Watch Manager Dave Taylor said the crew was pleased to see her doing so well.
“It was wonderful to welcome Olive to the station and see how well she is doing,” he said.
“She has shown real courage throughout her recovery.”
Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said Olive is now back enjoying life and taking part in majorettes again.
Read more from Sunny Skyz.
