ENCINITAS, Calif. (KGTV) -- The Encinitas teenager bitten by a great white shark is thanking all who saved him and those who continue to support his recovery.
It was nearly two months ago when 13-year-old Keane Webre-Hayes was attacked while lobster diving at Beacon's Beach.
Webre-Hayes sustained substantial damage to his left torso and face. His humorous was broken, ball joint broke in half, and rotator cuff torn apart in several places. He also lost a significant amount of his deltoid and lat muscles.
The 13-year-old underwent hours of surgeries and got 1,000 stitches.
"I feel really thankful to have my arm, to be alive, and I'm thankful to probably in the future help other people," said Webre-Hayes.
He's now considering a career in lifeguarding. Those who helped him are on a long list of people he wants to thank.
“The people that towed me in from the kayak, the first responders, the pilot, the doctors, the nurses, all the companies that have given me things, it's motivation to get back out there and do what I love, like surfing and skateboarding," said Webre-Hayes.
His mother, Ellie Hayes, says she is grateful for the outpouring of support and financial donations which will help with ongoing medical expenses.
"It’s one of the ultimate tests, and I know that there’s a reason and meaning, and there’s good that we can do with it," said Ellie. "We don’t know what that is right now, we’re going through it day by day, but we're open and ready to make sure we spread the word of courage and strength."
Webre-Hayes will continue physical therapy and could have additional surgeries in the future.
