Shark Bite Sophia

Sophia Raab is organizing this fundraiser.

Donation protected

Surfing is the thing that makes me feel alive. And on Wednesday, that was almost taken away from me.

I was paddling in after catching waves in the Palisades, when I felt a sudden burst of pain in my leg. I had no idea what happened—just that it was the most painful experience of my life.

I looked down at my leg and saw that a chunk of my thigh was missing. It was completely peeled open. I could see the inside of my leg. It was the goriest thing I had ever witnessed, let alone something on myself.

At that moment I thought I had caught my last wave.

I started surfing only a few years ago, but it wasn't long before I was out there every day. I know I'm lucky to not have lost my leg completely...or an arm, or serious organ, or my life, quite frankly.

I'm in shock but also so grateful for the support of my loving friends and family. I'm determined to get back in the water—won't be letting a baby shark stop me from doing what I love!

But going from doctor to doctor along with the bills from the E.R., it seems like I will not be able to afford the proper care necessary to recover from the attack.
If you have anything at all that you could donate to my cause it would be more than appreciated. Either way I am blessed that I even have a shot at walking again.

I will receive my MRI results later today and have a follow up appointment with the doctor Monday. All of these medical bills are beyond me in cost, any little bit helps. Even your positive thoughts and prayers are appreciated.

More of my story here:
http://ktla.com/2017/05/05/woman-suffers-possible-shark-bite-while-surfing-in-pacific-palisades-doctor-says/