WAILUKU, Hawaii (KHON2) — Kenji Nonaka, 61, is back where he belongs—surfing the waters of Maui—just two months after surviving a horrific shark attack. Kenji expressed his love for surfing by saying, "I love surfing, I want to go back surfing." The incident took place early November 2024 at Waiehu Beach Park, notorious for its surf breaks, when he was grievously injured.
The attack was severe, with the shark completely severing his leg just below the knee, forcing him to undergo extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. After weeks of physical therapy, his doctor finally gave him the go-ahead on December 19 to get back on the waves. The very next day, on December 20, he took the plunge at Kahului Harbor, filled with excitement but also serving as a reminder of the traumatic event he had just endured.
Kenji described his return, stating it felt "like being a beginner all over again." With determination and some assistance from the local surfing community, he managed to paddle out and catch small waves on his belly. With his wife, Tomoko, cheering him on from the shore, he smiled, radiantly celebrating this significant moment of joy and accomplishment.
A few days post his initial return, he braved another surf session at one of his favorite spots, just down the shoreline from where he was attacked. Even though Kenji still harbors some fear, he expressed respect and admiration for the ocean and its creatures, reinforcing his love for surfing at the same time. "The ocean is their property, all marine life property. That’s why I respect them. I still love them," he remarked.
Kenji is also physically recovering and is determined to finish up house projects as he continues his rehabilitation. He stated he still walks with crutches but remains optimistic about the future. Unable to keep down, his dreams of larger waves remain alive. He will soon travel to Honolulu for prosthetic fitting. "Then I’ll try and stand up then I don’t know. A couple of years later, I want to try again, big wave," he said, showcasing his unwavering resilience and passion.
The local community has rallied around Kenji during this difficult time. He set up a GoFundMe to assist with medical expenses, which surpassed its $100,000 goal, receiving around $107,000. His GoFundMe update celebrated not just his recovery but also the day of his triumphant return, coinciding with the winter solstice and the arrival of large northwest swells to the region: “On a day when there is much to celebrate… we are so overjoyed to share Kenji is back in the ocean!”
This heartfelt support speaks volumes about Kenji's positive impact on those around him. His friends and local surfers have echoed much gratitude for his recovery, ensuring he had the encouragement and company during such strenuous rehabilitation. His determination is contagious, inspiring many both on and off the waves.
Throughout the recovery process, Kenji demonstrated resilience through exercises at home, embracing each challenge with enthusiasm. Reports stated he pinched small milestones like performing one-legged push-ups and planks, showcasing his unwavering spirit. Even during tough moments, he maintained positive outlooks, famously declaring, "Tomorrow mo’ bettah," as his mantra, promoting hope within himself and his supporters.
Kenji's heartfelt thank-you also went to first responders, local firefighters, ambulance crews, and all local residents who helped him during the horrific shark encounter. Reflecting on their quick action during the traumatic episode, he stated, "Ambulance, firemen, all my friends. I’m so happy. Thank you all,” eliciting more support and respect from the community.
His experience and connection with the ocean remind us all of nature's innate power and unpredictability. Kenji Nonaka’s story of recovery from nearly fatal injuries serves as not just one of survival but also one of unwavering tenacity and love for the sport he adores. Though innocent encounters with nature can sometimes lead to tragedy, they can also lead to empowerment through resilience, creating joyous moments of triumph against adversity. Nonaka looks forward to riding waves again, embodying the very spirit of surfing—perseverance, love, and respect for the ocean.