(BIVN) – The 27-year-old woman who received a shark bite while swimming on the Napo’opo’o side of Kealakekua Bay on Monday has written a letter about her experience, while recovering in the hospital.

The woman, who received injuries to her lower back and right hip area, was transported to the Kona Community Hospital and was last reported to be in good health by police.

“Our shark-bite patient, a 26-year old female, prefers not to do interviews, and is requesting privacy,” wrote Judy Donovan on behalf of Kona Community Hospital, maintaining the patient’s anonymity. “Since she and her family recognize the natural interest in her story, she is releasing the attached statement.”

The patient wrote:

I am happy to be recovering following a shark encounter that happened on August 20th in Kealakekua Bay.

On Tuesday morning, I was snorkeling in the bay. I was returning to shore after swimming near a pod of dolphins. I was about 30 feet off shore timing out the waves to climb out of the water. Something bumped me pretty hard on my back. At first, I had no idea what it was. But then, I think adrenaline kicked in when I realized I was bitten.

The shark it knew it had made a mistake; that I wasn’t its natural prey. It let go. I looked back and saw the shark’s face out of the water as it turned and swam away.

Then, my natural instincts took over. I knew I had to make it to shore, and screamed for help.

Thankfully, people came to help me out of the water and put pressure on my wounds. I can’t remember their names, but everyone at the bay was incredible. I walked to the parking lot and waited for the EMTs who arrived almost immediately.

I am receiving excellent care at Kona Community Hospital. I would like to thank everyone from the Medic 6 EMTs and hospital staff for their care and compassionate professionalism.

Finally, I’ve been living and working at a bed and breakfast near Kealakekua Bay since coming to the Big Island. I am especially grateful to the B&B owners, who have become my guardian angels during this scary situation.

I appreciate everyone’s concern. For now, I will not be doing interviews so that I can focus on my recovery. Thank you.