From the vibrant city of Chicago comes an inspiring tale of bravery as two remarkable individuals united to rescue an infant who was swept into the waters of Lake Michigan.
30-year-old Lio Cundiff was enjoying a conversation with his aunt at Belmont Harbor when suddenly, he felt the gusty winds pick up, quickly followed by a terrifying scream from a nearby woman. In that moment, Cundiff realized the horrifying truth—the wind had knocked the bassinet of a stroller right into the lake.
“I could see the lady was overwhelmed with panic and unable to help, which is completely understandable. It clicked for me, and I thought, ‘I guess I’m going in,’ and I just jumped in,” Cundiff recounted, reflecting on his spontaneous act of courage. “I didn’t really have a plan.”
Upon reaching the stroller, Cundiff faced a challenge as he struggled to pull the baby out. He had to lift the top part of the stroller to prevent it from sinking further into the chilly water.
In a fortunate twist, Luis Kapost, an American Airlines pilot, arrived on the scene as a second hero. Combining Cundiff’s impulsive heroism with his own calm demeanor, Kapost quickly assessed the situation. Spotting Cundiff battling the heavy, soaked stroller, he tossed him one arm of his Chicago Cubs jacket, providing much-needed support.
Holding onto the other sleeve, Kapost helped keep Cundiff afloat until the baby’s nanny arrived to assist in lifting the stroller out of the water.
Rescue teams soon arrived and transported both the baby and Cundiff to the hospital for evaluation.
“I called my work and my girlfriend. My aunt was on the line and heard everything unfold. I just dropped my phone and I think she called my mom. I wanted to make sure they all knew I was okay and that the baby was safe,” Cundiff shared with local media.
Despite the sunny weather, the water was still quite cold, and at the hospital, doctors noted that Cundiff had elevated heart enzymes, prompting them to recommend a night of observation.
Kapost praised his fellow rescuer, stating, “That’s the true definition of a hero—someone who acts selflessly to help others, even when it puts their own life at risk. He’s absolutely a rock star.”
As for Cundiff, he felt a bit awkward being labeled a hero, humbly identifying himself as just a server and stand-up comedian who happened to be in the right place at the right time.
Let’s celebrate the courageous actions of these two heroes and spread their inspiring story with friends!
