After being bitten by a rattlesnake during a hike, a woman from Florida had to spend her birthday in the intensive care unit. Now, her boyfriend is speaking out about her recovery and urging others to exercise caution when enjoying nature.
Derrick Hunter shared, “May 24th was her 21st birthday. Unfortunately, she had to spend it in the ICU.” Originally, celebrating her birthday didn’t involve such circumstances, but they are grateful that she survived to reach this milestone.
Hunter continued, “We didn’t think she was going to make it through the following day, but she’s a fighter, and she defied the odds. Miracles do happen.” Sierra Lynn, Hunter’s girlfriend, was hiking at the Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park near Sarasota when she was bitten on the leg, likely by an eastern diamondback rattlesnake, told WSVN.
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, transporting her via ambulance and airlifting her to Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Hunter recalled the intense moments when the family was called in, fearing the worst. However, Lynn managed to pull through.
Lynn hopes that her experience will serve as a warning to others about the need for caution on Florida’s trails. Hunter emphasized that dangerous wildlife extends beyond alligators and sharks in the state, as there are numerous venomous snakes and spiders.
Hunter advised using a walking stick to scare off snakes along outdoor paths and urged hikers to be mindful of their steps. “Step on the log and not over the log—that’s a crucial point. By stepping on the log, you startle the snake and reduce the chances of getting bitten,” he emphasized.
Sierra Lynn is still in the ICU, and it remains uncertain whether her leg will require amputation.
