Bradenton Girl Recovering After Surviving Shark Bite, Hand Saved by Surgeons
A 9-year-old girl from Bradenton is recovering after surviving a traumatic shark attack that severed her hand while snorkeling off Boca Grande on June 11. Leah Lendel and her parents joined doctors at Tampa General Hospital on Thursday to share her remarkable story of survival and recovery.
The attack occurred during a family outing when Leah was snorkeling near the shore. Without warning, a shark bit down on her right arm, severing her hand just above the wrist. Her parents, Nadia and Jay Lendel, witnessed the terrifying moment and rushed her to safety. A nearby construction crew assisted in wrapping her wound, and emergency responders quickly transported her via helicopter to Tampa General Hospital.
There, a team of specialists from Tampa General and Muma Children’s Hospital performed emergency surgery. Doctors were able to successfully reattach Leah’s hand, repairing blood vessels, nerves, and tendons in a race against time. Surgeons emphasized the complexity of such a reattachment, noting that while blood flow was restored quickly, nerve regeneration will take time and therapy.
To aid her healing, Leah now wears a medical device to keep her arm elevated and reduce swelling, which is essential to preserving circulation and mobility. She also receives support from a hospital therapy dog named Belle, who has become a comforting presence during her recovery.
Despite the trauma and the long road ahead, Leah remains in high spirits and shows signs of strength beyond her years. Her family credits the surgical team and the swift emergency response for what they believe is nothing short of a miracle.
Leah continues to receive follow-up care and rehabilitation, but her story is already one of courage, resilience, and hope.
