In a world that often feels oversubscribed with negative news, take a moment to soak this one in — a story of resilience and perseverance.

Aussie surfer Kai McKenzie has returned to the waves (not for the first time) after a shark attack claimed his right leg.

Kai McKenzie’s story has become one of extraordinary resilience and hope. After surviving a brutal shark attack that cost him his leg, Kai refused to let the ocean become a place of fear. Months into his recovery, he made the powerful decision to return to the water — paddling out again at the very break where his life changed forever. His return to surfing wasn’t about denying what happened, but about reclaiming what he loves, proving that trauma doesn’t get the final word. Through grit, humour, and an unbreakable spirit, Kai has shown that resilience isn’t just surviving the worst moments, but choosing to move forward anyway, offering inspiration to surfers and non-surfers alike.

Check out the recent clip of him shredding — in his own words, “I lost my leg, but I didn’t lose surfing.”

More from @kai_mckenzie here 

When this finally surfaced, it left viewers in disbelief. Bits and pieces of the session had already been seen through the individual riders, but witnessing the entire day unfold from start to finish is something else entirely. Legendary drone pilot Shaun Petersen had been quietly sitting on this footage for almost a year… and boy was it worth the wait. Watch as Australia’s biggest chargers take on one of the world’s heaviest waves on an absolute MAXING day. Only the bravest — or maddest — need apply.

Shot via the expert drone pilot skills of Shaun Petersen. @shaun__petersen @shaun.drone

Featuring: @jackisabaker @themadhueys @_billyolsen @matisjosrolland @curtjohnson35 @oscarberry123 @kippcaddy1 and a whole host of other mad dogs willing to give the death slabs a good nudge!

Edit: We Bodyboard

Music: Terra Requiem - Dian Shuai
Alonia - Valante
Better Off (Instrumental Version) - Torii Wolf
The Source of Existence - Polar Nights
The Star Slowly Fades - Of Water
Hologram (Instrumental Version) - Torii Wolf