A man who bravely leaped into shark-infested waters to rescue a woman under attack has recounted the terrifying ordeal.
Blake Donaldson and his partner were at the beach enjoying a day out when an unexpected crisis unfolded before them.
While at Gunyah Beach in Bundeena, Australia, last month, Donaldson heard cries for help coming from Mangyon ‘Mani’ Zhang, who was in the water.
The 57-year-old woman was the only other person present with Donaldson and his partner when she fell victim to a shark attack.
Despite the perilous circumstances, Donaldson chose to dive into the water to attempt a rescue.
Describing the events to 60 Minutes Australia, Donaldson said: “I just [had] to jump in. The fight-or-flight kicks in, and I just made the decision. Sure there could be a shark but my reaction was, ‘I just have to save this woman.
“I wasn’t thinking about the shark, I wasn’t thinking about my own safety — I just can’t watch this woman drown. Either you watch someone drown or you go out and help them. A couple seconds could mean someone’s life.”
Fortunately, Donaldson managed to bring Zhang back to shore after first placing her on a paddle board, with no clear idea of where the shark had gone.
Donaldson’s partner, Ellen Melchert, was knowledgeable in first aid and tended to Zhang’s severe 15-inch knee wound until emergency responders arrived.
Reflecting on the harrowing event, Zhang shared: “I can’t move. I can’t even think. I can’t breathe. I don’t feel like I have any oxygen coming to my lungs. I thought I should take a deep breath.”
Marco Aielli, an intensive care paramedic, explained to 60 Minutes Australia that Zhang was in a critical state, having suffered a severe loss of blood.
Zhang lost consciousness but later regained it after undergoing surgery.
Now on the road to recovery, Donaldson and Zhang were reunited in a heartfelt meeting just weeks after the traumatic event.
“You saved my life. Words … cannot express … how thankful I am,” Zhang expressed to Donaldson.
Donaldson humbly responded: “They say, ‘You’re a hero.’ I don’t think about it, but then it sort of does hit you and makes you realize you did save someone.”
Despite his modesty, it is undeniable that Donaldson’s actions were instrumental in Zhang’s survival.