The long-time Jacksonville resident who was nearly killed while diving for golf balls told FOX 13 Tampa that he was lucky to have survived.
Scott Lahodik, a professional diver who makes his living by locating golf balls that have been hit into water hazards, was attacked July 7 while working at a course in Charlotte County.
Lahodik worked in the industry for many years in the Jacksonville area and has been diving for golf balls for nearly 30 years.
"He just came and, full blast, grabbed my arm all the way back in his throat and then he started to roll with me," Lahodik told FOX 13 on Saturday. "He rolled a couple times and then he still didn't let go so I knew I had to do something, so I started punching him up by the eye and then he let go.
"There's probably over 400 staples and stitches, and we're just praying no infection sets in over the next couple days."
Lahodik is set for a second surgery on Monday. He said he doubts he will ever be able to work as a golf ball diver again.
The family has set up a GoFundMe to help defray his medical expenses.