A New Zealand tourist who was bitten by a shark while diving in Fiji says he feels “incredibly lucky” to have kept his leg and has praised those who came to his rescue following the ordeal.
Henry Gibbs shared an update on social media on Friday, six days after the attack, revealing he is recovering after undergoing four surgeries and a skin graft.
“First dive in Fiji ended in a pretty nasty shark incident. Feeling incredibly lucky to still have my leg, full use of my foot and to be on the mend,” Gibbs wrote.
He used the post to thank the many people in Fiji and New Zealand who had offered support since the incident.
“Just wanted to say a genuine thank you to everyone who’s reached out over the past six days since the incident, both in Fiji and back home in New Zealand. The support has honestly meant a lot.”
Gibbs paid special tribute to two men, Colby and Dan, crediting them with helping save his leg by acting quickly after the attack.
“Massive thanks to Colby and Dan, who got me out of the water and dealt with the wound so quickly, and to everyone involved afterwards.”
He reserved particular praise for Dan, who remained with him throughout the emergency.
“A special thank you to Dan, who was by my side through the whole ordeal, and of course Mum as well.”
Despite suffering serious injuries in the attack, Gibbs said he does not blame the shark.
His recovery continues following multiple surgeries, with medical treatment focused on repairing the damage to his leg while preserving full use of his foot.
