Advanced Care at TGH Helps Young Patient Recover After Shark Attack

Published: Jun 26, 2025
leah lendel and her family pose with her tgh care team at press conference to discuss her shark bite survival story

A nine-year-old girl’s courage and the life-saving expertise of her Tampa General Hospital care team captivate the nation.

Tampa, FL (June 26, 2025) – A shark attack off the coast of Boca Grande nearly cost nine-year-old Leah Lendel her hand. But thanks to the swift action of her family, first responders, and the extraordinary care team at Tampa General Hospital (TGH)—the region’s only academic health system* and Level I trauma center—Leah’s story became one of survival and strength. Surgical specialists from the Florida Orthopaedic Institute and pediatric experts at the Muma Children’s Hospital at TGH worked swiftly to save her hand. Now on the road to recovery, Leah is courageously sharing her journey.

View a recap of the press conference and a collection of news coverage chronicling this remarkable story below.

*University-based program