November 2nd 2024.
Meet Kenji, a 61-year-old regular surfer at a popular spot called "Sandpiles" on the beautiful island of Maui. Surfer's paradise, they say. But even in paradise, danger lurks. Just last Friday morning, Kenji was attacked by a shark while catching some waves off Waiehu Beach Park. It was a terrifying ordeal, to say the least.
Kenji was sitting on his board, enjoying the peacefulness of the ocean, when suddenly a shark appeared and bit his leg. The attack was so sudden and unexpected that Kenji didn't even have time to react. His leg was completely severed below the knee, according to Maui County officials. But Kenji didn't let that stop him. With incredible strength and determination, he managed to swim back to shore, a true testament to his bravery.
The local Fire Department Assistant Chief, Jeff Giesea, called Kenji's ability to swim back to safety "extraordinary." He was quickly assisted by other surfers, including David Basques, who saw the attack happen. David recalled the moment, saying he heard a yell and then saw Kenji splashing in the water. He knew something was wrong and immediately went to help. With the help of others, they were able to bring Kenji to shore.
Police officers arrived and applied a tourniquet to Kenji's leg to stop the bleeding. But unfortunately, his leg could not be saved. Kenji was rushed to the hospital in critical condition and underwent surgery. However, even after such a traumatic experience, Kenji's love for the ocean remained strong. According to his friends, he declared his love for the sea after leaving surgery.
A GoFundMe page was started to support Kenji, and it has already raised an incredible amount of money, over £38,000. The page describes Kenji as a "bright light" on the island, always out in the ocean no matter the weather. And it's true, Kenji's love for surfing and the ocean is undeniable.
As a precaution, the beach where the attack occurred has been closed, and people are advised to stay out of the water from Paukukalo to Waihee until further notice. Shark attacks are rare, but they can be fatal, as seen in the tragic case of 49-year-old lifeguard Tamayo Perry, who passed away after being attacked while surfing off Goat Island in June.
Another survivor of a shark attack, 20-year-old Angus Kockott, shared his terrifying experience. While snorkeling in French Polynesia, he was suddenly faced with an eight-foot shark that left his arm looking like a "stripped drumstick." Angus credits his survival to having a small knife on hand, which he used to defend himself from the shark. He said he was grateful to have had it that day.
Despite the dangers, for many like Kenji, the love for the ocean and the thrill of surfing is worth the risk. Let's hope for a speedy recovery for Kenji and a safe return to the waves for all surfers.
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