Drama erupted on the evening of 14 November 2025 when baby Daniel Pharoe suddenly choked after taking fever medicine at home in Cape Town. Panic set in as his mother, Miriam Pharoe, rushed him towards help—initially heading for the hospital but stopping at the nearby Brackenfell fire station instead.
Quick-Thinking Firefighter Steps In
Firefighter Arlin Thielman was ready and waiting. With calm precision, he stabilised little Daniel, turning a critical situation into a hopeful one. Thanks to his quick action, the baby’s emergency status improved from yellow to green before they even reached CapeGate Mediclinic.
“That 5–10 minutes of help, tapping him, showing us which position to keep him, reassuring us, calling for a rescue vehicle, the calls to CapeGate Mediclinic and the check-ins on our way and while we were at the hospital, we appreciate it,” Miriam told the Cape Argus.
Mayor Hails Local Hero
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis lavished praise on Thielman, calling him “’n ware Kaapstad-held!” and saying, “Ons stad is trots op hom.” South Africans flocked online to shower the firefighter with thanks, hailing him for going far beyond the call of duty.
Everyday Heroism Makes a Difference
For Arlin Thielman, it was just another day on the job. But for Daniel’s family—and a grateful city—his bravery and quick thinking made all the difference. This heartwarming rescue reminds us that sometimes, the biggest heroes wear fire helmets, not capes.
