‘I owe my mom a trip’: Langley diver who helped in Thai rescue coming home

LANGLEY (NEWS 1130) – A diver from Langley is coming home after taking part in the grueling mission to rescue a soccer team and their coach from a cave in Thailand.

The 35-year-old, who is being hailed a hero, is flying out next week.

“It’s been difficult,” says Erik Brown, of what life has been like after the rescue.

But he says seeing the boys healthy and out of the hospital couldn’t make him happier.

“I would really hope to see the kids sometime soon,” he tells NEWS 1130. “I’m lucky enough to live here in Thailand and be close enough that I can make a trip back up to the northern parts and say hello and see how they are doing — and who knows, maybe teach them how to dive.”

Brown adds he will always be inspired by the boys’ strength. “I think they are a testament for the rest of the world to follow.”

He knows the situation wasn’t easy for his family, adding the TV footage from the scene must have been difficult for them to watch.

“There’s been quite a bit of support from Canada. I know that this is equally as hard on the people around you. So, I think I owe my mom a trip home.”

It’s been tough to return to “normal” life, following the rescue, but Brown is looking forward to unwinding after such a challenging mission.

“I have this really comfy couch and a really cuddly dog that I’m probably going to spend a little bit of time with.”

The first thing he’s going to do once he’s back? Eat some sushi.

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