Lulu Gribbin : Update on Walton County shark attack victim – WDHN

(WDHN) — Following the recent shark attacks in Walton County, the mother of one of the teenage girls involved has shared an update on her daughter’s condition.

On Friday, three shark attacks were reported at two beaches located approximately four miles apart. The initial attack occurred at Watersound Beach, where a 45-year-old woman sustained injuries resulting in the loss of the lower part of her left hand. Fortunately, she is currently in stable condition.

The subsequent attacks took place near Seacrest Beach, with victims identified as 15-year-old Lulu Gribbin and 17-year-old McCray Faust, both from Mountain Brook, Alabama. Gribbin suffered severe injuries to her upper leg and hand, while Faust sustained minor injuries to her foot and has since been discharged from the hospital.

Authorities believe that all three incidents were caused by the same bull shark.

Lulu Gribbin’s mother shared a detailed account of the events leading up to and following the attack on her daughter through a post on caringbridge.org.

On Sunday, June 9, 2024, I feel compelled to share Lulu Gribbin’s story, urging everyone to continue praying for this beloved child. Lulu, her twin sister Ellie, and I embarked on a mother-daughter beach trip from Birmingham to the shores on Wednesday, June 5. The first two days were filled with joy and excitement as we enjoyed the beach with friends and dined together.

However, Friday took a devastating turn as we were walking back from lunch on the beach. A commotion among the beachgoers caught our attention, and we soon learned of the shark sighting. Panic ensued as we searched for the girls. Upon reaching the scene, I found Lulu lying on the ground, unconscious and gravely injured. The sight of her wounds was harrowing, and I could only pray for her survival as she was swiftly taken for medical attention.

Lulu underwent emergency surgery at Sacred Heart in Pensacola, where it was revealed that she had lost her left hand and part of her right leg. Despite the challenges ahead, her resilience shone through as she bravely faced the recovery process. The outpouring of love and support from well-wishers has been a source of strength for our family, and we humbly request continued prayers for Lulu’s healing and well-being.

As we navigate this new reality, we remain grateful for the medical team, first responders, and strangers who played a vital role in saving Lulu’s life. Her journey towards recovery will be arduous, but her spirit and determination will guide her through.

Ann Blair Gribbin, mother of Lulu

A community-wide prayer service was held at St. Luke’s Birmingham, the home church of Faust and Gribbin, on Sunday at 4:00 p.m.