Pro Surfer Bethany Hamilton's Nephew Seeks Medical Miracle after Tragic Drowning Incident

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13/10/2024 23h14

### Pro Surfer Bethany Hamilton Seeks Medical Miracle for Nephew After Drowning Incident

Bethany Hamilton, renowned pro surfer and shark attack survivor, has asked for medical aid and prayers for her 3-year-old nephew, Andrew, after a tragic accident. The toddler was discovered unconscious in a bathtub and was quickly airlifted to a hospital in Oahu, Hawaii.

Hamilton turned to Instagram on Saturday to share the heartbreaking news, revealing that the incident happened on Friday night. Accompanying the post was a touching photo of Andrew holding a surfboard. Hamilton expressed hope and desperation, stating, "He still has a heartbeat and has fight in him." She also poignantly admitted, “We are wrecked," emphasizing the crucial role that proper medical care plays in such critical situations.

Seeking any possible assistance, the surfer reached out to her followers for help, particularly for any information on enhancing her nephew’s chances of recovery. Her brother, Noah Hamilton, also voiced his support, describing Andrew as a "resilient kid" and an "amazing swimmer," despite the grave situation. "He's three-and-a-half going on five," Noah shared with the Daily Mail. "He was found not breathing in shallow water, but his vitals were enough to get him to Oahu."

In an effort to explore all medical options, Bethany managed to contact Dr. Paul Harch, a specialist in hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). This treatment, often used to address decompression sickness, has shown promise in treating children who have experienced drowning incidents. Dr. Harch notably succeeded in reviving an unconscious child who had drowned in 1997.

Bethany took a moment on Sunday to thank her fans for their overwhelming support via her Instagram Story. She acknowledged the reluctance to make the incident public but understood that sharing it could potentially bring in more valuable information. "I don't plan on posting a lot," she wrote, indicating that she would be stepping back from social media for the foreseeable future.

Hamilton's life story inspired the 2011 film "Soul Surfer," starring Anna Sophia Robb. At the age of 13, she lost her arm in a tiger shark attack off the coast of Kauai in 2003. Despite this life-altering event, she continued to compete in surfing contests and earned the Best Comeback Athlete ESPY Award the following year.

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