On October 8, 2024, Marlies saved someone who had fallen into the water due to a medical issue. Thanks to her quick and decisive actions, the victim was safely rescued from the water and handed over to the emergency services. Without her help, it could have ended very differently.
The board of the Carnegie Hero Fund stated that her efforts were a demonstration of civic courage and good citizenship, and of great importance for the rescue. During the presentation, Deputy Mayor Micheline Paffen-Zeenni noted that Marlies commitment is an impressive example of heroism, courage, and caring for one another in our city.
The Carnegie Hero Fund distinction is for people who, at the risk of their own lives, save the life of another or attempt to do so. Even if someone puts themselves in a dangerous situation for another without immediate life-threatening danger, a distinction can be awarded. In Amersfoort, the hero medal was last awarded in 2018.
