Maya Gabeira shows thumbs up after near-drowning experience.
Brazilian big wave surfer Maya Gabeira has survived a near-drowning experience at Praia do Norte, Nazaré, but she is already recovering in a Portuguese hospital.
Gabeira, 26, surfed one of the biggest waves ever by a female rider during the Big Monday swell in the Nazaré North Canyon when she was caught by the whitewater.
After calling for jet ski support, Maya Gabeira lost consciousness due to exhaustion.
She had to be rescued by fellow Brazilian charger Carlos Burle, who brought her to shore for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
"Thank you for your love and care. Nothing more than a broken ankle. I am recovering well. Keep supporting. I will be back shortly. Love you all", Gabeira wrote on her Facebook page.
Her smile says it all. Gabeira is fine and will join the waves as soon as she recovers from the traumatic experience.