Surfer Injured in Shark Attack Receives Aid from Fellow Surfer

<p>A 56-year-old man from Western Australia is undergoing a "long recovery" after losing his foot in a shark attack while surfing alone, according to 9 News Australia.</p><p>Mel Ismail was surfing at Glenfield Beach when he was bitten by a shark on Monday morning. The shark not only bit his leg but also damaged his surfboard.</p><p>Dr. Mary Pinder, head of the ICU department, stated, "[He is] receiving specialist care from an experienced multidisciplinary team with the capability and expertise to manage complex and critically unwell patients locally." She added, "This person remains in a stable condition; however, he has sustained serious injuries and faces a long recovery."</p><p>Ismail was rescued from the water by Shannon Dunn, a fellow surfer who also works for the region's emergency services. Dunn noticed Ismail waving for help from the shore, quickly paddled out on his board, and brought the injured surfer back to shore.</p><p>Once ashore, some teenagers assisted by creating a tourniquet from a surfboard rope. Dunn then transported Ismail to a waiting ambulance in his vehicle.</p><p>The shark attack is currently under investigation, and authorities have advised swimmers in the area to exercise caution. A section of Glenfield Beach was temporarily closed following the incident.</p><p>The full extent of Ismail's injuries is not yet known. He is in serious but stable condition at Geraldton Health Campus’ Intensive Care Unit/High Dependency Unit.</p>