Flash floods. Tsunamis. Rivers. Oceans. Hurricanes. The force of moving water is powerful, majestic sometimes, and also potentially deadly.

Lakes. Ponds. Swimming pools and spas. Even still water offers a hidden hazard. It only takes 30-seconds for a child to drown. And contrary to what people think, there is usually no cry for help. Drowning is a silent killer...

PHOTO: Earl Higgins, 1950-1980

The Drowning Support Network offers PEER GRIEF SUPPORT for those who have lost loved ones in drownings or other aquatic accidents, including when no physical remains have been recovered, or the recovery process has been lengthy and difficult. Water rescue/recovery personnel are also welcome to participate.

On February 17, 1980, Nancy Rigg's fiance, Earl Higgins, lost his life attempting to save a child that had been swept down the flood-swollen Los Angeles River. The child survived, but Earl was swept 30-miles downstream past rescuers who were unable to perform a safe or effective swiftwater rescue. Earl's remains were not recovered until nine months later.

Too many families continue to suffer the loss or injury of loved ones in open water. In addition to sudden death bereavement, post-traumatic stress injury (PTSD) is frequently a compounding problem.

We lend one another emotional support and guidance. We promote drowning prevention programs, water rescue training for emergency responders, standards for recovery operations that reduce the burden on grieving families, and we lobby for change in the way all open and moving water related emergencies are managed.

We honor confidentiality - no research or nonprofit solicitations allowed.

Information on this site is designed to support, not replace, physician-patient, provider-patient relationships.

Founder/Moderator: Nancy Rigg

Co-Moderator: Janet Keller

Sponsor: Higgins Langley Memorial and Education Fund