I surprised even myself when I agreed to a family rafting trip on the North Umpqua River over the Fourth of July weekend this year.

I've never been one to enjoy swimming, floating or boating in the river, so everyone was somewhat impressed by my decision. The dread of drowning and the fear of what may be lurking in the depths has always kept me a drylander. Now, don't get me wrong. I value the absolute beauty and tranquility of the river, but I value it from the river bank.

The day started out full of fun with the promise of adventure. I really felt quite at ease as we chatted and enjoyed each other's company and the scenery of the mighty Umpqua. There were eight of us — three in one raft and five in the other. My son was the most experienced and he navigated the rapids and channels well, giving advice and guidance throughout the early part of the day. Random conversations were occasionally interjected with a reminder of safety.

The serenity of the river and the splendor of the surrounding forest were magnificent.

The cool water splashed us all and kept us refreshed as the summer sun beat down. Osprey soared overhead and swallowtail butterflies fluttered on the shoreline. We enjoyed a picnic lunch in the shade of the trees on a convenient picnic table. The day seemed about as relaxing as a day can get.

After lunch, we, once again, secured our life jackets and set out down river. The approaching rapids were powerful and demanded our respect. Maneuvering over and through the boulders kept me a little on edge as we drifted. We seemed to be doing well and my son proved his ability until at one rapid, he announced, “Hold on.” I turned just in time to see a massive rock that we were about to hit sideways. The raft shifted and the left side went under and was swamped with water. I knew we were going over. mentally prepared myself to swim and to make it to shore.

The rushing sound of water and the white bubbly rapids surrounded me. I expected to come to the surface at any moment, but as I analyzed the situation, I realized I was under the raft and could not reach the surface. A million thoughts raced through my mind. Where is my family? Are my son and daughter under the raft too? Does anyone know where I am? Can this really be happening? How do I get to the surface? I knew I shouldn't have ever done this!

I pushed and fought to get out from under the raft, trying to hold my breath as best I could. Suddenly, I emerged, gasping for air. I could see my son just out of reach, and I could hear my daughter yelling. I struggled to swim and catch my breath, but the more I tried, the more water I seemed to swallow. I remembered the advice about floating feet first and knew that I needed to calm down.

Another rapid was fast approaching, and I could see my daughter trying to reach me. She somehow managed to pull me to shore, and I could see my son safely on the other side. The other raft was close behind and by the time they approached, I was on the water's edge trying to regain my composure. My daughter's leg was gashed from hitting something and we were both overwhelmed by the situation.

After recovering for a short time, we were coaxed back in the raft for a short distance until we came to a safe departure point.

The scenic beauty of the Umpqua River is but one of its qualities. Its sheer strength and power are to be respected and not be taken for granted. I appreciate both of these, but from now on, I'll stick to my appreciation from the bank.

Robin Henrikson is a resident of the Melrose area. Her daughter, photographer Shelby Henrikson, will be a senior at Sutherlin High School this fall.