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Sydney Shark Attack Survivor Triumphs: Victim Off Life Support and on Path to Recovery

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A musician who was mauled by a shark in one of the worst spates of attacks seen in a state for years has been taken off life support and is “healing”, his family said.

In a harrowing turn of events, a man was urgently transported to Royal North Shore Hospital, where doctors were compelled to amputate his lower right leg. Initially in critical condition, his situation has seen a remarkable change.

Andre de Ruyter, 27, was one of four victims attacked by sharks in 48 hours last month after he was bitten by a suspected bull shark while surfing at North Steyne Beach in Manly on January 19.
Andre de Ruyter, 27, was one of four victims attacked by sharks in 48 hours last month after he was bitten by a suspected bull shark while surfing at North Steyne Beach in Manly on January 19. (GoFundMe)

Today, his family expresses profound gratitude for his resilience, calling him a “survivor.” In a heartfelt social media post, they shared, “He’s just been able to come off his breathing tube and is healing exceptionally.”

Doctors have noted encouraging signs in his recovery, although they caution that there is still a significant journey ahead. This message of hope is tempered with realism, acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead.

The family also extended their appreciation to blood donors, as their contributions were crucial. He required 13 bags of blood, underscoring the life-saving impact of these donations.

His family also thanked those who donated blood, saying he needed 13 bags.

They also posted an image of his hospital wall covered with photos and a photo of his dog, Luna, visiting him.

The family started an online fundraiser for prosthetics and rehabilitation to support his recovery, which has already raised more than $16,900. 

Andre de Ruyter, 27, was one of four victims attacked by sharks in 48 hours last month after he was bitten by a suspected bull shark while surfing at North Steyne Beach in Manly in Sydney on January 19.
Andre de Ruyter is a musician on the South Coast. (Instagram)

In the 48 hours that followed, Ruyter was bitten by a suspected bull shark, the same day as an 11-year-old boy’s surfboard was bitten by a shark at Dee Why Beach.

The attacks were attributed to previous wild weather considered a “once-in-a-500-year event”, which created the perfect environment for bull sharks to lurk in coastal waters around Sydney and wider NSW.

The heavy rain caused unusually high levels of freshwater to run through rivers and estuaries into saltwater systems and beaches, creating brackish water.

Bull sharks are one of the few species of sharks that can tolerate brackish waters.

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