Ali Truwit faces night terrors in Paris after shark attack

Ali Truwit, a 24-year-old swimmer and Paralympian, faced significant emotional challenges after surviving a shark attack in May 2023 while snorkeling in Turks and Caicos. The attack resulted in the loss of her left foot and part of her leg, but she managed to swim to safety and receive medical attention. Following her recovery, she participated in the Paralympics, where she was excited to support her teammates and compete herself. During a practice session in Paris, Truwit experienced a triggering moment when she saw an underwater camera, which reminded her of the traumatic incident. This led to an emotional breakdown, causing her to cry with her mother for hours. Despite her mental struggles, she focused on positive affirmations and the support from her loved ones, which helped her cope with the stress of the situation. Truwit employed various coping strategies, including reflecting on joyful memories and engaging in 'cute-kid therapy' to uplift her spirits. She emphasized that her participation in the Paralympics was already a victory in her mind, regardless of the race outcomes. Her resilience and determination to overcome her trauma were evident as she navigated her recovery journey. In sharing her experiences, Truwit aims to make her story relatable and accessible to others facing similar challenges. She acknowledges the importance of being open about her struggles, as it can provide hope and encouragement to those on their own paths to recovery.