White County first responders reunite with toddler saved from drowning

Deputies and firefighters who assisted in the rescue visited Ari at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

White County firefighters with young Ari who they helped save from drowning on March 5, 2025. Assistant White County Fire Chief Josh Holland is pictured holding Ari. With them are, from left, Captain Jody Holland, and firefighters Trace Swoszowski and Terry Stewart. (White County Public Safety)

White County first responders who helped save a toddler’s life in March visited her at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Tuesday to see her progress.

Ari is the child that White County Sheriff’s deputies Wesley Vandiver and Jaileen Brown rushed to help after receiving a pediatric drowning call on March 5, according to WRWH News. The deputies performed CPR until firefighters arrived to continue lifesaving efforts.

White County Firefighter Trace Swoszowski holds Ari at the hospital while visiting her on April 22, 2025. (White County Public Safety)

Fire Captain Jody Holland, Assistant Chief Josh Taylor, and firefighters Trace Swoszowski and Terry Stewart traveled to visit Ari and her parents, Hannah and Patrick Day. It was the first time they’d seen each other since that frightening day. A social media post by White County Public Safety described the reunion as emotional and filled with gratitude.

Ari’s recovery continues at Children’s Healthcare, surrounded by her family and medical staff.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with her and her caregivers throughout this journey,” the post said. “We look forward to the day we welcome Ari back home to White County.”

Dean Dyer of WRWH contributed to this report