With so many sad stories sweeping across the media, one like this reminds us there is always hope. On a stormy afternoon in Lake Mary, Florida, a team of first responders found themselves racing against time as a powerful thunderstorm loomed on the horizon. They had been alerted to cries echoing from deep within a storm drain and soon realized a small but important life was trapped underground. With the threat of rain fast approaching, the crew knew they had to act quickly to prevent a tragedy.
“Seminole County Animal Services (SCAS) and Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) joined forces to rescue one of the tiniest residents of Seminole County, a four-month-old kitten,” SCAS later shared on Facebook. Among the first responders was firefighter and paramedic Dave Gomez, who, along with his team, was determined to save the kitten before the storm made the situation more dangerous.
Their first attempt involved using traps to lure the kitten out, but when that didn’t work, they switched to a more direct approach. “After multiple failed attempts with traps, SCFD firefighters went down the drain themselves to coax the kitten out,” SCAS explained.
The rescuers removed the heavy grate that covered the drain, and Gomez carefully climbed down a ladder into the catch basin. Once inside, he knelt down near the drainage pipe, hoping to entice the kitten with an open can of cat food. With the help of a long pole, he tried to nudge the kitten closer to safety. At first, the frightened kitten refused to budge, but after some time, he finally began to crawl toward the opening where Gomez was waiting.
Moments later, the tiny gray tabby darted into the catch basin, eyes locked on the food. Before the kitten could take a bite, Gomez scooped him up with both hands, securing the rescue. The rescuers quickly loaded the kitten into the SCAS van just as the storm clouds burst open.
“The rescue happened just in time — within the hour, the storm drain was completely washed out by the downpour,” SCAS wrote. The kitten was whisked away to SCAS headquarters, where the veterinary team gave him a thorough checkup and, of course, plenty of food. Despite his ordeal, the kitten was in good health. To honor his rescuer, the little tabby was given a special name: Dave, after the firefighter who had pulled him to safety.
SCAS shared the rescue story online, hoping it would lead to an adoption. And sure enough, it only took eight days for a family to step forward. His new family decided to rename him Apollo, fitting for a cat who had survived such an incredible ordeal.
This incident sets a dangerous precedent for what is acceptable in our educational institutions.
Now settled in his forever home, Apollo enjoys all the comfort and affection his new family can give. Once trapped in a storm drain, he now watches thunderstorms from the safety of his warm bed. From a near disaster to a happy new life, Apollo’s journey is a testament to the dedication of his rescuers and the power of a second chance. Click ‘play’ below to watch the kitten’s rescue. Thank you to the rescuers for saving his life!