Photo: Titans of Maverick’s
Shawn Dollar of Santa Cruz, California was seriously injured yesterday afternoon while surfing massive waves brought by a slew of strong storm systems that slammed the West Coast on Labor Day. The big-wave surfer, Titans of Maverick’s competitor, and holder of several Guinness World Records was surfing a spot on California’s Central Coast while wave heights were said to be reaching the 25-foot feet range.
Details of the accident are still unclear at this point, but according to Titans of Maverick’s, Shawn broke his neck in four places, incurred head trauma and a concussion. He safely made it to shore and was quickly tended to by fellow surfers, whom swiftly transported Shawn to the ER, where he received immediate medical attention. Shawn is in stable condition at this time.
“I’m so thankful I’m alive and present today,” Shawn told the TOM. Being surrounded by my loved ones through this time has been paramount for me. I’m so grateful for those who where there in my scariest and darkest hour and who acted on my behalf to get me to safety and reach the hospital in time. I’m thankful to learn that even with these severe injuries I will make a full recovery. They will be met with challenges but with my family’s support and community encouragement I will be back in no time.”
We extend our deepest condolences to the friends and family of Shawn, and we’re wishing Shawn a speedy recovery.
