“Sending Prayers”: Surfing Community Gather as 14-Year-Old Surfer in Critical Condition After Brutal Accident

Kai Thompson, a 14-year-old surfing prodigy, recently won the 14 and Under Airshow division at the NSSA West Coast Regional Championships and has been steadily building a following on social media. With over 100,000 TikTok followers, his account showcases impressive surf videos, capturing the attention of fans as he rises in the surfing world. However, just as his career was taking off, Kai was involved in a severe accident while driving to a surf spot, turning what was supposed to be a carefree ride into a moment of crisis.

On October 7, Kai’s parents took over his Instagram account to share a heartfelt update about his condition. They explained that while they initially hesitated to post about his situation, they felt it was important to keep his followers, friends, and family informed. The message revealed that Kai had been injured just a few streets away from home. His injuries were extensive, including lacerations to his face, mouth, and tongue, a broken nose that will require surgery, bruised ribs, a broken pelvis, and a severe concussion. Most concerning, however, was the internal bleeding caused by a grade 4 tear in his liver and kidney. Despite the gravity of his injuries, Kai had managed to make it through the night without needing surgery or a transfusion, offering a glimmer of hope.

Kai’s parents expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support and prayers from the surfing community and beyond. They requested continued good vibes and prayers, sharing that his condition was still fragile, particularly as they awaited more news on the internal bleeding. The family emphasized how much the positive messages from fans would mean to Kai when he was able to read them.

In response to the accident, the surfing community rallied around Kai, sending well-wishes and messages of encouragement. USA Surfing left a supportive comment, and numerous fans also sent prayers and love, with some calling Kai “strong” and urging him to stay resilient. His Instagram following has grown to nearly 35,000, with many of his followers eagerly hoping for his recovery.

Famed surfer Jamie O’Brien, who has been a mentor to Kai, also showed his support, leaving a heartfelt comment with blue hearts and prayer emojis. O’Brien, known for his own successes in surfing, has been seen surfing alongside Kai in the past, demonstrating the close bond between the rising star and his mentor. Other prominent surfers, including Kalani Robb, Koa Smith, and Brad Domke, have also shared their love and support for Kai, showcasing the strength and unity of the surfing community during difficult times.

Throughout this challenging ordeal, Kai’s family has remained open and transparent about his condition, providing updates to keep everyone informed and maintain a positive outlook. The overwhelming love and support from the surfing world and Kai’s social media following has shown just how many people are rooting for his recovery. With such a strong community behind him, there’s hope that Kai will be back on his board, conquering waves, sooner rather than later.