A two-week vacation to the Florida Keys meant Mary and Jameson Sr. could share the beauty of their favorite turquoise-blue waters with their four children. On that serene day at Looe Key Reef, their oldest, ten-year-old Jameson Jr., was swimming among the marine life, capturing breathtaking footage of a sea turtle when a massive bull shark attacked. Nine miles from shore and even farther from a hospital, their son weakening, the Reeders prayed for help—and it came through a miraculous chain of events.

Rescue at the Reef is the true story of a young boy who defied death with an unshakable faith in the power of Jesus to save him. Even in immense suffering, he focused on caring for those around him, so much that it surprised even hospital staff. His unshakeable peace made an impact on patients and visitors, and his story quickly spread, drawing the attention of strangers and the media.

With reflections on faith, suffering, and the hidden gifts that often go unnoticed, Rescue at the Reef is a living reminder that with God, even the most fearsome challenges can be faced—and conquered. This unforgettable story will leave you on the edge of your seat, inspired by the ripple effects of hope that overcome impossible odds.

Jameson Reeder

is the founder and president of Urban Village, a non-profit movement designed to be a missional arm of the church to reach beyond the walls of the building in major cities of the western world. Jameson is also the founder and owner of BEST Landscape Lighting a business he started with his oldest sons after the shark attack. Most importantly, Jameson is the father of four boys and one daughter and the husband of Mary Catherine. The Reeder family resides in Charlotte, NC.

Mary Catherine Reeder

is a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst who coaches parents and other caregivers of children with Autism and related disabilities. She helps children with Autism live, work, and play in their communities as independently as possible. Mary is the wife of Jameson and they share in the joy of raising their five children: Jameson Jr., Noah, Eliana, Nehemiah, and baby Malachi!