Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A British holidaymaker saved the life of a one-year-old toddler after catching her as she fell from a hotel balcony, it was reported today.
Helen Beard, 44, of Worksop, England, was relaxing by a pool in the American resort of Orlando when she saw the child dangling through a railing of the fourth-four balcony.
The Briton, of Worksop, Notts, ran to a spot directly under 16-month-old Jah-Nea Myles, before she fell, striking the balcony below on her way down.
Mrs Beard broke the US child's fall, before she slipped from her arms and hit the ground, according to police reports.
The drama unfolded at the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites shortly after 11pm on Wednesday.
Jah-Nea was taken to hospital following the incident but did not sustain any serious injuries.
The toddler's mother, Helena Myles, 20, told Reuters: "She's perfectly fine. Not a scratch on her body.
"I'm thanking the Lord above right now for saving my child's life. I'm also thanking that lady because she was an angel sent from heaven."
Ms Myles and her daughter, who live in Longwood near Orlando, were staying at the Econo Lodge in adjoining rooms with friends from North Carolina.
She said that she left the youngster in the care of the friends, who did not notice she had slipped out of their room until they heard the sound of screaming.
"I'm not upset with anyone. I've had it out with my friends. But other than that, I'm thanking God right now that my child's here," Ms Myles added.
Police said no criminal charges are pending.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments