Canadian woman loses hands after shark attack in Turks and Caicos

A Canadian woman’s relaxing getaway turned into a “nightmare” after she endured a shark attack in Turks and Caicos.

The woman’s brother-in-law, Al Chevarie, detailed the harrowing incident in a GoFundMe he created for the victim, who remains unnamed, and her husband, identified as Ralph Chevarie.

According to Al, his sister-in-law was attacked by a “seven-foot bull shark” in only hip-deep clear water.

“The shark then circled around and bit her thigh. Not satisfied, the shark came back again and when she put both hands in front of her to protect herself, the shark cut off both of her hands, one at mid forearm and the other at the wrist,” he wrote in the GoFundMe description.

The description in French says her two hands were “instantly amputated.” The GoFundMe’s location suggests the family is based in Quebec.

Al says Ralph managed to wrestle away the shark so that his wife could escape.

A press release from the government of Turks and Caicos confirms that the incident occurred on Friday, February 7, at a beach adjacent to Blue Hills, Providenciales. It says the shark was estimated to be around six feet but did not verify the species.

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force revealed the victim is 55 years old.

Al recalls his sister-in-law collapsing on the beach and being treated to first aid. The government says she was taken to Cheshire Hall Medical Centre “where she was stabilized and later flown off island for further medical care.”

The island’s government noted that further investigation determined the tourist had attempted to engage with the shark from the shallows to take photos.

A Facebook Post from local government confirms the attack and advises how people can stay safe in the water.

“The DECR would like to urge the public to always be aware of your surroundings, follow local advisories, and respect marine life,” reads the press release. “Swim in designated areas, avoid murky waters, never swim alone and do not attempt to feed marine wildlife under any circumstances.”

The victim’s brother-in-law is calling on Canadians to donate to the fundraiser to help the family pay for her recovery.

“This is something that has completely altered their life in the blink of an eye. I ask, if you can, to please help them; they will need a lot of support to get through this. Any and all contributions will be greatly appreciated,” wrote Al.

As of Tuesday afternoon, they’ve raised close to $26,000 with donations from over 350 people.

In an all-caps message, the fundraiser’s organizer asked the media to “stop hounding” and trying to get in contact with him, his friends and relatives. “THERE WILL BE NO COMMENTS,” he noted.

A photo from the scene, from the gofundme launched for the victim.

This isn’t the first time a Canadian has experienced a shark attack in Turks and Caicos.

Last May, a Canadian kiteboarder survived a shark attack while “casually snorkelling with friends and family” on the island.