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The woman, identified only as Kassandra on Facebook, ran into the water but was overcome by strong currents, Brigantine police said.
First responders including the Brigantine Beacn Patrol rescued the unidentified children.
The incident occurred at about 9:30 a.m. on July 13 when the women’s children, who were wading in the ocean, “appeared to have become overpowered by the current and were in distress,” police said.
“(A) witness observed the woman run into the ocean to attempt to rescue her children, and subsequently observed her become distressed and disappear underwater,” police said.
“Because of the mother’s selfless actions and the witness immediately seeking help, the children were able to be rescued by Brigantine Beach Patrol who were training prior to their shift on a beach nearby,” police said.
The woman was taken to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center in critical condition, police said. The children were evaluated by Brigantine Fire/Rescue and were reunited with family.
Earlier this week, the mother made a surprise recovery to visit with her family. She also presented officials with flags and refreshments to show, the beach patrol said.
“It was reiterated to her by public safety personnel that her own selfless actions were directly responsible for saving the lives of her children,” the beach patrol said.
“We were truly happy to see the amazing recovery that Kassandra has made and are very appreciative of her and her family’s generosity,” the patrol said.
Brigantine Police Chief Richard Casamento said, “This is a prime example of all three Public Safety Departments working together and utilizing their training and experience to save lives. I’m proud of the professionalism and skill of the members of our Public Safety Departments here in Brigantine.”
"I am proud of our Public Safety Departments and the work they do every day to protect and serve our island,” said City Manager James Bennett. “They all deserve to be recognized for what they do. Getting to see this young woman who came back from a terrible life-threatening accident is positive proof we have the very best."
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