Our prayers are continually with those whose lives have been forever altered by the devastating events of Hurricane Helene. In the midst of such tragedy, we have also seen examples of the best humanity has to offer in terms of kindness, care, and bravery.
One such example was from a gentleman named Eddie Hunnell. The 57-year-old Hunnell was in Grassy Creek, NC for his son’s wedding. While there, he and several onlookers noticed flood waters had picked up a home owned by Lesley Worth and was carrying it downstream. As you will see in the video below, they also came to realize Worth was still trapped in the home. It was then Hunnell literally sprang into action.
Watch the WCNC news feature via WRAL below for what happened next. Afterwards, we will use his example to break down the anatomy of a heroic act.
A 9-Step Process of Heroism
The following is the 9-Step Process of Heroism we learn from Eddie Hunnell and the video above:
1. Heroism Is Often Birthed During Crisis
Unless you are a first-responder, you are often not afforded the opportunity to schedule a heroic act. Heroism usually comes during times of unwelcome interruptions. As previously mentioned, Hunnell and his family were in town for a wedding when one of the most devastating natural disasters in our nation’s history was thrust upon them. What was supposed to be a wedding was now a life-or-death situation.
2. Heroism Is A Natural Response To Panic
As demonstrated and rightfully so by those standing along the banks of the river, the natural response to crisis is panic. However, the natural response of heroes is action. Which leads to the next point….
3. During Panic And Crisis, Heroes Ask The Right Questions
During times of crisis, many people ask “Why?” But the better question to ask is “How?” That is what Hunnell and all who perform heroic acts do. His response to watching Lesley and her home being dragged down the river was, “When it was happening, I was trying to make a calculated risk. How do we save her?”
4. Heroic Acts Are Often Performed By Those Who Have Been Prepared To Do So
Hunnell said, “I grew up swimming on a swim team. I was a lifeguard. (I’m in) OK shape.” Little did he know how much his childhood activities would be needed as a 57-year-old man. Who knows what will be required of you today that was acquired, learned, or experienced long, long ago.
5. Heroism Often Results From A Deep Burden
There are things we would like to do, and there are things we need to do. It is the things we need to do which have the greatest impact on others. Hunnell continued, “I just couldn’t watch her die. I felt like I needed to do that.” Two questions everyone reading this article should ask and answer are: “What things can you not bear to watch any longer?” and “What do you need to do about it?”
6. Heroism Requires The Proper Tools
To avoid being swept up in the flood’s currents himself, Hunnell was wearing a life vest and tethered to shore by a rope. Likewise, you also must have the proper resources to perform heroic acts.
7. Heroism Comes With A Personal Cost
Heroism is not neutral. It will take something from you. Hunnell admitted, “It didn’t really hit me until I laid down in bed that night and about had a panic attack.”
8. Heroism Usually Doesn’t Have Another Option
If the solution to your problem had multiple options, it would not require heroism. It would require excellent decision-making skills. Hunnell concluded, “but I didn’t see another option.” There was only one thing he could do to save Lesley’s life.
9. Heroism Should Be Followed Up On
After being rescued, Lesley Worth and her husband Phil were honored guests at the wedding rehearsal dinner. It was a brief moment of relief for a couple who lost everything in the flood.
Conclusion
If heroism is required of you or someone you know, this list gives you a template of what will be required. But the price is worth it because others are desperately counting on you.
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