Pride of Australia: Hero speaks after saving pregnant woman
A man who made a split-second decision to help save a pregnant woman was being repeatedly punched in the head has been nominated for a bravery award. VOTE FOR YOUR HEROES.
NSW
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It was the split-second decision that helped save a pregnant woman.
Martin Barrett was on his way to work through Surry Hills when he saw Alexa Cojanu, 26, being repeatedly punched in the head in a random, unprovoked attack.
Ms Cojanu, who was 30 weeks pregnant, clutched her stomach before falling onto the road as she was assailed by a 28-year-old schizophrenic woman.
Mr Barrett put himself in harm’s way to protect Ms Cojanu from her attacker.
“I think anyone who was walking by that morning would have stepped in and I am just glad I was there and could help Alexa,” Mr Barrett told The Daily Telegraph yesterday.
Since the incident, Mr Barrett said he has become “more aware” about his ability to make a positive impact each day regardless how big or small.
“When it first happened, I received messages from people all over the world and was able to reconnect with people I had lost touch with over the years,” he said.
“It’s also impacted some of my closest friends who are now actively looking at ways to positively contribute within their own circles.”
An off-duty probationary officer who happened to also be walking by helped restrain the attacker.
Police praised the actions of Mr Barrett and the officer at the time. “The civilian did not hesitate to leap to the rescue of the pregnant woman and we commend his bravery,” Detective Chief Inspector Adam Johnson said.
Mr Barrett’s bravery has also earned him a Pride of Australia nomination.
Mr Barrett, who moved to Australia eight years ago, said the whole experience had “reinforced” the importance of community.
“We all can do things to make the world a better place for one another. Australia has given me so much and I’m happy I was able to give a little something back,” he said.
To nominate your unsung hero, visit prideofaustralia.com.au
Originally published as Pride of Australia: Hero speaks after saving pregnant woman
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