I’m deeply saddened to share the harrowing story of professional surfer Bethany Hamilton’s 3-year-old nephew, Andrew, who was found unconscious in a bathtub on Friday evening. The details of this tragic incident have left the entire Hamilton family reeling, and they are now desperately seeking help to give the young boy the best chance at survival.
In a heartbreaking Instagram post on Saturday, Hamilton revealed that Andrew was airlifted to a hospital in Oahu, Hawaii, the morning after the drowning accident. “He still has a heartbeat and has fight in him,” the surfer wrote alongside a photo of her smiling nephew holding a surfboard.
Hamilton, who famously survived a shark attack that cost her an arm when she was just 13 years old, made a passionate plea for assistance, saying, “We are wrecked. But I know how proper medical support can make or break someone’s chance of survival, and in this case, we’re asking for help from anyone who has information on what we can do to give my nephew the best chance.”
The pro surfer’s brother, Noah Hamilton, provided additional details about the incident, describing Andrew as a “resilient kid” and an “amazing swimmer” who was “found not breathing in the shallow water of a bathtub.” Despite his young age, the toddler was able to be airlifted to the hospital, suggesting he may have had some vital signs upon discovery.
Bethany Hamilton wasted no time in reaching out to medical experts. She revealed that she was able to connect with Dr. Paul Harch, a hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) clinician based in Louisiana. HBOT is a well-established treatment for decompression sickness and has been used to help patients who have experienced near-drowning incidents, including children.
In an update to her original post, Hamilton said, “We are hopeful. Thank you for your prayers and support. We are in contact with Dr. Harch and many helpful individuals.”
The outpouring of support from Hamilton’s followers has been heartwarming, with countless fans offering prayers and well-wishes for the young boy’s recovery. As a news reporter, I can’t help but be moved by the compassion and concern radiating from the surfer’s community, especially considering the profoundly personal nature of this tragedy.
Hamilton, who inspired the 2011 film “Soul Surfer” based on her harrowing shark attack, has always been a beacon of resilience and determination. Now, as she and her family face this unimaginable challenge, it’s clear that those same qualities are propelling them forward, fueled by a fierce determination to give Andrew the best possible chance at survival.
While the details of the boy’s condition remain uncertain, Hamilton’s willingness to openly share this profoundly personal struggle and her eagerness to seek out every available medical resource is a testament to the strength of the Hamilton family. They are not only fighting for Andrew’s life but also seeking to raise awareness and potentially help others who may find themselves in a similar situation.
I can only imagine the heartache and anguish the Hamilton family is experiencing. Still, I’m heartened to see the outpouring of support and the family’s unwavering commitment to exploring every avenue for their beloved nephew’s recovery. It’s a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of community in times of crisis.
I urge anyone with relevant medical expertise or information to heed Bethany Hamilton’s call for assistance. This young boy’s life hangs in the balance and every second counts. Let’s come together to support the Hamilton family and give Andrew the best chance at a miracle recovery.