David Daniel, a 43-year-old Glenside native who has lived in Silver Springs, Florida since 2016, was recently attacked by a nurse shark while walking in shallow water after fishing in in Key West, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.
The shark bite caused an “arterial bleed,” according to the Key West Police Department, which released a statement on the incident.
Thankfully, two nearby nurses ran to help him and stopped the bleeding via tourniquet.
“Sector Key West watchstanders received a report of a Good Samaritan rescuing an individual bitten by a shark. A USCG Station Key West boat crew escorted the Good Samaritan to Station Key West, where the individual was transferred to EMS in stable condition,” the Coast Guard’s Southeast District said in a social media announcement.
“I turned around and saw it swimming along the coastline of a sandbar. Then he turned and just beelined right for me like a movie,” Daniel told Click Orlando. “By the grace of God, I was lucky enough the boat next to us docked up and was full of nurses and medics.”
According to a GoFundMe launched by a friend, Daniel was flown to a nearby medical facility for emergency treatment, after which he underwent surgeries on August 23 and August 25.
From the fundraiser’s description:
Right now, Dave is expected to be unable to walk for 6 to 8 weeks and will need extensive physical therapy, with months away from work while he heals. Because he does not have health insurance, this sudden emergency has created an overwhelming financial burden on top of the physical and emotional toll of recovery. Donations will help cover medical expenses, physical therapy, living expenses, and other costs while Dave is unable to work. Robyn is asking for any support you can give during this incredibly difficult time. Every donation, share, and kind message will mean so much to Dave as he focuses on healing. Please consider giving if you are able, and thank you for your prayers, generosity, and kindness during Dave’s recovery.
$10,846 has been raised at the time of this writing.
You can watch WSVN-TV‘s video coverage of the incident below:
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Photos: GoFundMe