
Grab your sunscreen and your tissues, folks, because this story is an absolute wipeout of emotions (the good kind)! When Hurricane Helene tore through Indian Rocks Beach, Florida, one local surfer decided it was time to hang tenâon heroics.
Meet Marty Thomas: surfer, neighbor, legend. đââïž As floodwaters surged through his neighborhood, Marty didnât sit around waiting for the storm to blow over. Nope. He grabbed his trusty surfboard, strapped on his courage, and got to work saving lives.
A Surfboard of Hope
While most people sought safety indoors, Marty saw an opportunity. With floodwaters rising and his neighbors stranded on porches and rooftops, Marty paddled right into actionâliterally. Equipped with nothing but his board and a âget it doneâ attitude, he made trip after trip through the flooded streets.
One rescue at a time, he helped elderly neighbors climb aboard his board and carefully navigated the choppy waters to safety. Families trapped in their homes passed him their pets, including cats, dogs, and even a particularly grumpy parrot (who we hear still isnât a fan of water). đŠđ
The Neighborhood Cheers
For the people stranded during Heleneâs wrath, Marty wasnât just a heroâhe was a lifeline. One rescued neighbor described the experience as âlike seeing an action movie play out in real life, except it was our real-life superhero.â
Even as the rain poured down and winds howled, Martyâs determination didnât falter. Neighbors gathered on balconies and rooftops, cheering as Marty paddled back and forth, soaking wet but full of grit. By the end of the ordeal, he had personally saved about a dozen people and countless pets.
âItâs What Neighbors Doâ
When asked what made him step up, Marty brushed off the praise like the humble hero he is. âYou Idonât really think about it,â he said. âWhen you see someone who needs help, you just do it. Thatâs what being part of a community is all about.â
As the floodwaters receded, Marty was hailed as the town hero, though he insists he was just doing what anyone else would do. (We think heâs being modest. Super modest.)
Be Like Marty: Heroes Among Us
This incredible story reminds us that even in lifeâs stormiest moments, thereâs always room for courage and compassion. Whether itâs rescuing a neighbor or lending a helping hand, acts of kindness make waves that ripple far beyond their origin.
Your Turn! Share Your Good News đ
We know youâve got uplifting stories to tell, and we want to hear them! Have you witnessed or experienced a selfless act of kindness? Send us your good news at news@giggleglobenews.com, and letâs celebrate the heroes in our lives!

#SurfingToTheRescue #HeleneHero #NeighborGoals #GoodNewsRipples
