Heartfelt Update from Mother of 30A Shark Attack Victim

Ann Blair Gribbin's emotional Facebook post detailing the harrowing shark attack on her daughter, Lulu Gribbin, has spread like wildfire across social media, garnering widespread support and prayers for the young girl.

On June 5, what began as a joyful mother-daughter beach trip to Rosemary Beach took a tragic turn. Ann, Lulu, and Lulu’s twin sister Ellie were among friends when the unimaginable happened. Walking along the beach, they noticed a crowd staring out into the water. Panic ensued when Ann's friend couldn’t reach her daughters, prompting a frantic search.

Ann soon found Lulu surrounded by people on the ground, her daughter’s body pale and lifeless. Lulu had suffered severe injuries from a shark attack, losing her left hand and requiring the amputation of her right leg. Despite losing two-thirds of her blood, Lulu miraculously survived, thanks to the immediate response of bystanders who applied tourniquets and the quick action of emergency personnel.

In her Facebook post, Ann described the terror and helplessness she felt as they raced to Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, praying for Lulu’s survival. Lulu’s strength shone through as she awoke from surgery, her first words being, "I made it." Her bravery and resilience in recounting the attack were remarkable; she remembered being bitten on her hand and leg and credited a man and a young boy for pulling her to safety.

Ann’s gratitude was evident as she thanked everyone involved in saving Lulu’s life, from the beachgoers who rendered first aid to the medical team at the hospital. She expressed profound thanks for the outpouring of love and support from friends, family, and strangers alike, acknowledging the long road to recovery ahead.

"Sweet Lulu is more worried for her friends than she is herself, which is a testament to her character," Ann wrote, asking for continued prayers for Lulu’s strength, healing, and acceptance. She urged the community to be understanding and compassionate towards Lulu as she navigates her new reality.

Ann's heartfelt update has not only brought attention to the dangers of shark encounters but also how important prayer has been for her family in the face of adversity. As Lulu continues her recovery, the Gribbin family remains hopeful and grateful for the love and support that surrounds them.

The shark attack occurred during a rare spate of incidents along the Florida Panhandle. Lulu was one of two teenage girls injured in the attacks, which also severely wounded a 45-year-old woman. The beaches have since reopened with warnings, and authorities continue to monitor the shoreline for shark activity.

See the full story on the shark attacks here via The Pensacola News Journal.