9-year-old twins were swimming in a pool—a closer look at the bottom helped them save a 4-year-old’s life

The little girls didn't hesitate to jump into action after spotting something unusual and it made all the difference

PUBLISHED 13 HOURS AGO

(L) Twin sisters talk to each other after getting out of pool. (Representative Cover Image Source: Getty Images| Pascal Broze), (R) Little girl struggling on raft in pool by herself. (Representative Cover Image Source: Getty Images| S Benitez)

There are no specifications when it comes to becoming a hero and saving another. Age is not a determining factor but rather observation is. The Wixom Police Department commended 9-year-old twins, Ava and Addison Apostopolos, for their sharp vigilance that helped save the life of a 4-year-old. The duo was casually swimming when they noticed something unusual at the bottom of the pool. When they understood what was actually happening, they acted responsibly and smartly to help in due time. Their bravery and intelligence were honored with the Police Department Civilian Citation Award.

Preteen twin sisters hanging out together. (Representative Image Source: Getty Images| Photo by Pitavix)

According to a report shared by 23 ABC, the duo had gone to visit their grandmother and went to her apartment complex’s swimming pool. Both were enjoying themselves while relaxing when they noticed there was something at the bottom of the pool. Upon looking further, the twins were shocked to see a little girl down there. She wasn't responsive or moving and the young girls quickly went into action. Addison had goggles and decided to go a little further inside the water and get a better view, WXYZ-TV Detroit Channel 7 revealed. When she noticed the girl, she quickly went down and brought her up and out of the water.

Little child's hand held high above water in distress cry for help. (Representative Image Source: Getty Images| Photo by PRImage Factory)

When the 4-year-old was out, she was not breathing. Her lips had turned blue. A maintenance worker, Cody Boyette, came on the scene and quickly administered CPR to the little girl. With his prompt action, she was revived. She was quickly transported to the hospital and recovered. The twins received much praise for their astute thinking and action at such a young age. Their dad, Jason Apostolopoulos, noted that helping and being prompt are something their family has always been striving for. "We're just all about helping, we're aware of our surroundings and taught them the same thing, if you see something, do something," he said.

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The twins were initially shocked by the event. However, over time, they were able to embrace the fact that they made a difference. They noted that they were proud of coming to the girl’s rescue as soon as they noticed. "I am very happy that she's alive now and I hope she's having a good time," the duo remarked. Ava, Addison and Boyette were awarded at the City of Wixom Council meeting. “Without the quick observations and actions of these three individuals, it is believed that the child would have perished,” the department’s post read.

The officer at the event, too, said, “I have no doubt in my mind that these three people here saved a young child’s life.” The family is beyond proud of their twins, calling the rescue a “wonderful thing” to have happened. “The city of Wixom really honored them and that was wonderful and they were really proud of that," the dad said. Many people were relieved to know that the young generation is alert and brave. Kaitlynn Tennison said, “Thank you, girls, for acting fast. So brave.” Kathleen Gawronski added, “Ava, Addison, and Cody's heroic actions deserve every bit of recognition they receive.”