Since the rainwater first flooded Houston, Bowie has been out on his boat every day, helping to drag stranded people from the water.
He is one of countless local rescuers who are going out of their way to help their fellow Texans as the city grapples with the heaviest tropical rainfall in U.S. history. So far, Bowie figures he’s saved up to 30 people.
“A lot of these people we know personally and others are just neighbours,” he told CTV’s Chief News Anchor and Senior Editor Lisa LaFlamme, who joined Bowie Tuesday in his search for survivors.
His first rescue was his father, whose home was flooded with four feet of water. He now patrols washed-out regions of the city in his boat, passing by abandoned pickup trucks, half-submerged gas lines and floating debris in search of anyone in need.
Bowie views the natural disaster as a moment of spiritual reckoning.
“I do have faith in God, so when you’ve gone through enough challenges in life, you gain more faith. And I think trials are faith builders,” said Bowie.
An estimated 17,000 people displaced from their homes are staying in shelters, and the American Red Cross expects that number to rise. Ten deaths have been reported in connection with Hurricane Harvey, but that figure is also expected to grow.
Despite his brave efforts, Bowie was forced to cut his rescue mission short Tuesday on account of treacherous waters.
“When that current is whipping like that, when it’s that strong, it’s kind of tough,” he said.
Asked why he makes the risky rescues, Bowie’s answer is simple.
“We’re trying to be good neighbours,” he said.
With a report from CTV’s Chief News Anchor and Senior Editor Lisa LaFlamme
