Lifeguard Connor Hessler returns to North Shores

Connor Hessler, who was severely injured during a lifeguard competition July 17, made his return to North Shores Beach Patrol Aug. 12.

"It's been a difficult and challenging time for Connor, his family and the entire North Shores staff and community,” said North Shores Capt. Kent Buckson.

As part of his recovery, Hessler visited his summer stomping grounds to check in with fellow lifeguards and beach staff. 

"We at North Shores are so thankful that Connor is on the road to recovery," Buckson said.

Despite being in a neck brace, Hessler was all smiles as he posed for pictures with his co-workers, checked out beach conditions and was even able to get up on the stand.

"It was amazing to see Connor walk back into the North Shores Headquarters,” Buckson said. "There were plenty of hugs and tears of joy."

Following the traumatic incident, Buckson started a GoFundMe page that began with a goal of $25,000. Within hours, the Cape Region community had not only surpassed the goal, but also forced Buckson to raise the goal to $50,000, then eventually $65,000. A total of 668 donations netted $66,871.  

Hessler wrote a letter Aug. 10 on the fundraising site to thank those who donated.

“I would like to thank each and every one of you for your outpouring of love, support and prayers. Your donations have made it possible for me to receive the medical care I needed. I still have a long road to recovery, but I can happily say on [Aug. 5], I was discharged from my inpatient rehabilitation facility. I am proud to announce that I walked out of the facility on my own two feet with no assistance. I will continue to do rehab at an outpatient facility when I go back to school in a few weeks. I still have a lot of work to do to get back to my normal self, but I have a lot to be thankful for thus far. Thank you again!”