Have you ever been afraid, too afraid to help? To be honest, I don't know. The last time I was really afraid was when I was about 7 or 8, and then it was over. I have always had a shelter for problematic predators. Problems such as behavioural disorders caused by their owners and illnesses. I also worked in a zoo and often sat with the animals in the cages that everyone was afraid of (so the place wasn't cleaned). I certainly don't like all animal species, but fear is another story. I find the presence of large numbers of insects particularly disgusting. I don't find bats scary. Gosh, now I keep thinking about who showed me a bat. By the way, I think it's quite remarkable that the one you rescued left so quickly.
I think it's great that you went into that swimming pool to rescue the animal despite your fear.