The victim of the latest shark attack on North Carolina shores on Thursday spoke out after being bitten about 30 feet from the shore along Ocracoke Island.
Andrew Costello, 68, was flown to Vidant Medical Center in Greenville after being bitten on his left lower torso, his hip, his lower left leg and both hands.
"I'm recovering after a frightening and painful shark attack that occurred on July 1," Costello said in a statement. "I feel very fortunate to have survived thanks to the incredible assistance I received from medical personnel on the beach, both those on duty and vacation."
Costello says he's focused on his recovery and appreciates everyone's concern.
"I am receiving the best care at Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, N.C. where I was airlifted yesterday," Costello said. "I want to thank everyone from the Ocracoke National Park Service lifeguards to the EMTs and hospital medical staff for their professionalism and excellent care."
Costello received a major, but non-lethal shark bite to his thigh, Dr. Eric Toschlog from VMC said.
"While his injuries will require multiple additional operations, July 2, he has been upgraded to good condition," Toschlog said. "We are optimistic that he will make a full recovery."
This was the third shark attack along the North Carolina coast since the weekend and the seventh since the start of June.