Shark Attack Survivor Raises Funds for Prosthetic Hand After Insurance Denial

Elisabeth Foley, a 45-year-old woman from Ashland, Virginia, is crowdfunding to acquire a prosthetic hand after her insurance company denied coverage following a life-altering shark attack in Florida. The incident occurred on June 7, when Foley was ambushed by a shark, resulting in the amputation of her left mid-forearm and severe injuries to her midsection.

Foley described the moment of the attack, recalling how she first spotted the shark, which she compared to "a huge mass" resembling a torpedo. In her attempt to fend off the predator, she experienced intense pain as it clamped down on her leg. Following the attack, she endured two months of hospitalization and is now facing multiple surgeries to address nerve damage and reconstruction.

Medical professionals have recommended a myoelectric prosthetic hand, a high-tech device that would allow her to regain significant functionality. Initially slated to receive the prosthetic on Christmas Eve, Foley was devastated to learn that her insurance deemed the device "not medically necessary," leading her to launch a GoFundMe campaign to raise $73,000 for its cost.

As of Thursday, the campaign has achieved 81% of its goal, raising over $59,260. Foley emphasized the importance of the prosthetic for her quality of life, stating that without it, she would face significant challenges in mobility and daily living.