Kenji's Shark Attack Recovery GoFundMe raises over $107,000 as Hawaii man returns to surfing after losing part of his leg

A 61-year-old surfer named Kenji Nonaka suffered a shark attack on November 1, 2024, while he was surfing at the Waiehu Beach Park in Hawaii. According to the County of Maui Police, fire personnel, along with medics and police officers, reached the scene immediately to rescue Kenji, who was in critical condition. Later, he was taken to Maui Memorial Medical Center for additional treatment.

"Kenji is a mainstay for morning Pakuz and Sandpiles sessions and has been surfing these breaks for over 30 years," the GoFundMe campaign post read. "The morning of November 1, Kenji was attacked by a shark, losing his right leg just below his knee. His good friends and regular morning crew helped him in, and he is currently recovering well in the ICU,".

As per the reports, Kenji survived the shark attack; however, he lost part of his right leg in the incident. He was discharged from the hospital on November 8, 2024.

Kenji's shark attack recovery GoFundMe raises over $107,000

After the shark attack incident, Kenji's family started a fundraising campaign on GoFundMe to help them fund hospital bills, rehab bills, and other traditional charges. The campaign has raised a total of $107,160, surpassing its $100K target.

"the biggest and most heartfelt thank you to everyone who has donated to Kenji’s recovery - we passed our goal! - Kenji and Tomoko are both incredibly grateful for everyone’s generosity and support. The tremendous love for Kenji and his love for surfing is truly beyond words," the GoFundMe post read.

As per the post, Kenji had all his staples removed after two weeks and has been making good progress in rehab since his release from the hospital. It was also reported that has been doing one-legged exercises. On December 22, the GoFundMe post updated that Kenji was back in the ocean for the first time since the shark attack.

In an interview with KITV, Kenji revealed that he has been surfing lying down or sometimes on his knees since the shark attack incident.

"Water is not sacred, just make me happy. But, sometimes I am a little bit scared of the shark because sometimes a big fish jumps...but I still respect them," Kenji said.

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Kenji is reported to get a prosthetic leg soon so that he can continue coming back to his beloved ocean and surf like he used to before the shark attack.

"Thank you so much again for everyone’s support, far and wide, in helping one of the most stoked and positive humans! Kenji is continuing to heal and regain his strength," a recent update on the GoFundMe page stated.

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