Emergency Surgery: Solidarity Campaign Launched for Chilean Big Wave Surfer
- Ayelet Fuentes Guerra
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Natalia Escobar, a two-time Chilean Open and Junior National Champion, suffered a serious accident while surfing one of the most powerful swells of the season in Pichilemu.
A week ago, the athlete shared on her Instagram account, @cataescobardi, that she had suffered a heavy wipeout at Punta de Lobos and had to be rescued after experiencing intense pain in her leg and hip. The initial diagnosis suggested a muscle tear. However, the final medical examinations revealed a far more serious injury: a complete avulsion of her hamstring tendons with a seven-centimeter retraction, along with a tear of the adductor magnus muscle.
This means the tendons were completely torn away from the bone, leaving emergency reconstructive surgery as the only option for her to regain normal mobility. According to Escobar, the procedure must be performed within the next month to maximize the chances of a successful recovery.
“Today I have to put my pride aside, open my heart, and ask for your help. Healing and moving forward is my only goal right now,” Escobar wrote. Unfortunately, the cost of the surgery and the rehabilitation process exceeds her financial means, prompting her to seek support from the community.
The campaign has already begun to be shared by fellow athletes, organizations, and specialized media in an effort to help one of Chile's leading big wave surfers begin her recovery as soon as possible.
Those wishing to contribute can do so through the campaign shared by @cataescobardi on Instagram, where donation options are available through BancoEstado, Mercado Pago, and PayPal for supporters from other countries.
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