Following the culmination of a day of action at the Lexus Pipe Pro last week, a swarm of free surfers descended on Pipe and Backdoor to try and snag a few tubes before the sun set. One of those was underground North Shore charger Lucas Godfrey who knows that reef better than most. However, after struggling to find the exit on a backdoor bomb, he suffered a serious spinal injury and was rushed to Queens Hospital. The regular footer may now need surgery to stabilise his spine.

A fundraiser has now been set up by Anna Godfrey to help Lucas with medical costs, therapy and other expenses which may be required.

In a Go Fund Me page, she wrote: “On February 7th, North Shore surfer Lucas Godfrey (@skywalka) suffered a serious injury while surfing Backdoor. After the Pipe Pro had finished, Lucas paddled out and charged a bomb at Backdoor. He pulled into a heavy barrel, but was unable to find the exit. As he fell, he was sucked over the falls and slammed into the reef while in a seated position, feeling the full force of the wave crashing down on him. In that moment, he heard a loud pop—the devastating sound of his spinal cord compressing.

“Despite being in immense pain, Lucas fought his way to the surface, and then took more waves to the head. Thankfully, fellow surfers and North Shore lifeguards rushed to his aid, assisting in what could have been a life-threatening situation. Lucas was rushed to Queens Hospital and diagnosed with an Acute L1 Burst Type Compression Fracture, a severe spinal injury requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation. Doctors are closely monitoring his condition, and surgery may be needed to stabilize his spine and ensure the best path to recovery.

“Lucas is a passionate and fearless waterman, always pushing his limits in the ocean. His love for surfing and the community around him is unmatched. Now, he needs our help. The road to recovery will be long and challenging, with medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, potential surgery, and lost income all adding up.

“We are asking for your support to help Lucas get back on his feet—literally. Any contribution, big or small, will go a long way in covering his medical bills, physical therapy, and the support he needs to heal and return to doing what he loves.

“If you can’t donate, please share this campaign and send Lucas your love and encouragement. Your kindness, prayers, and support mean the world during this difficult time.”

We wish Lucas a speedy recovery. Anyone who wants to donate, can do so by clicking here.