‘He is incredible and strong’: Mother of snorkeler seriously injured in boating accident in Lower Keys posts video during his recovery – WSVN 7News | Miami News, Weather, Sports

SOUTHWEST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) – A South Florida mother has broken her silence after a video went viral showing her son after he was seriously injured in a boating accident in the Florida Keys.

It’s been a difficult few days for Jill Bender after her son Sean Bender was struck by a boat’s propeller while snorkeling under the Boca Chica Bridge in the Lower Keys on Thursday.

The ship’s propeller severed the 20-year-old’s arm and he suffered cuts to his head and neck.

The mother posted a video on Facebook showing her son laughing and happy with the family, with the caption: “This is the Sean we know. This is the Sean that should go viral. He is amazing and strong. The sweetest boy who follows the rules.”

Bodycam video shows officers and first responders rescuing Bender while his family is by his side.

“Stay with me, Sean. Sean, stay with me,” a family member said. “It’s going to be okay.”

Bender is in an artificial coma at Jackson South Medical Center.

A family friend told 7News that Bender’s arm was severed by the ship’s propeller, but doctors were able to successfully sew it back on.

Jill continued to talk on Facebook about how strong her son is and thanked people for their prayers.

“Our son Sean Bender was snorkeling with his father, brother, friend and cousin in Key West when he was struck by a speedboat. He is (in intensive care) under heavy sedation and has severe injuries to his right arm, neck and head. We are grateful for the tremendous support and prayers you are giving us all. Please keep up the good work.”

The incident is currently being investigated by the authorities. No arrests have been made so far.

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