Woman in coma after trying to save golfer Brian Harman’s six-year-old son from drowning

A woman is in a coma after trying to save Brian Harman’s six-year-old son from drowning in October, the American golfer revealed on Tuesday. Speaking ahead of the RSM Classic on St. Simons Island, Georgia, Harman shared the harrowing details of the incident and expressed his gratitude and hopes for his family friend, Cathy Dowdy, who remains in a critical condition after her brave efforts to rescue his son from a rip current.

The tragic event unfolded while Harman, 37, was in China for a tournament, leaving his wife and children vacationing in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. Harman’s son had been bodyboarding with a friend when they were suddenly swept out to sea by a strong rip current. Another man, Crane Cantrell, risked his own safety to dive into the water and pull Harman’s son to safety. However, in a heroic act, Cathy Dowdy also rushed into the ocean to try to help.

“She went in after my son,” Harman explained in an emotional statement. “He’s six years old. She couldn’t get to him… Cathy got injured really badly.” Dowdy, who had no personal connection to the child but acted out of sheer bravery, was severely hurt in the process.

The 53-year-old Dowdy was quickly assisted by a lifeguard who helped her out of the water and performed CPR until emergency responders arrived on the scene. Despite the critical condition she was in, Dowdy’s selfless act of courage saved a young life. However, the physical toll of her actions was immense, and she has been in a coma for nearly six weeks.

“It’s been a difficult time for us,” Harman said, visibly moved by the support from his community. “Our world kind of turned on its head.” He went on to say that he wanted to use his platform to bring attention to Dowdy’s actions and those of Crane Cantrell, praising their selflessness and bravery. “They disregarded their own safety to save my son. How do you thank people for that? I don’t know, except to tell their story,” he added. “The bravery they showed… I think that’s the most beautiful thing you can do in this life.”

Dowdy’s family and the community have rallied around her during this difficult time. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support Dowdy and her family, raising over $80,000 to date. According to updates on the page, Dowdy was initially treated at the Mayo Clinic before being transferred to Select Specialty Hospital in Savannah, Georgia, closer to home. Her husband, Mike Dowdy, provided an update on November 19, noting that although Cathy’s vital organs are stable, there is concern over potential brain damage. “She is still unconscious and still having some neuro storms,” he wrote. “This causes a roller coaster ride with blood pressure and breathing rate. We need her on an even keel to try and wean her from the vent. Please pray for calmer days ahead.”

In his press conference, Harman expressed his deep appreciation for the outpouring of support from both the local community in Glynn County and the broader St. Simons Island area. “The support we’ve gotten from the community is one of the most touching things I’ve ever experienced,” he said, visibly moved by the kindness and generosity extended to his family and Dowdy’s loved ones.

Harman, a three-time PGA Tour winner, has enjoyed a successful career, with his most significant victory coming in 2023 when he won the Open Championship—his first major title. Currently ranked No. 24 in the world, Harman’s career-high ranking was No. 8 earlier this year. Despite the personal challenges he is facing, he remains committed to his sport and the people who have supported him through this difficult ordeal.

As Dowdy continues to fight for her life, her heroic actions will not be forgotten. The community continues to rally around her, hoping for a miracle while celebrating the selfless acts of bravery that saved a child’s life. Harman’s request for prayers and support highlights the powerful bond between friends, family, and the wider community as they navigate this heartbreaking situation together.