The man hailed as a global hero for his bravery during the Sydney terror attack has suffered a significant health setback while in the United States seeking specialist medical care.
A Plea for Prayers from New York
Ahmed Al Ahmed, the Sydney shop owner who confronted alleged gunmen at Bondi Beach, has asked people worldwide to remember him in their prayers. His health has taken a downward turn during his stay in New York, where he is receiving treatment for multiple gunshot wounds sustained on December 14.
In a recent video posted to his Instagram, a visibly unwell Mr al-Ahmed was seen lying in a hotel bed surrounded by visitors. He revealed he had to cancel numerous appointments after experiencing "sudden swelling" in his hand and "severe pain". The courageous father of two has already undergone three rounds of surgery following the attack, which left 15 innocent people dead.
Pain and Resilience Amid Global Support
"When the pain returns after the medicine wears off, I feel discouraged," Mr al-Ahmed admitted. He quickly added, "But when I remember that I did what I did to protect innocent people and that so many people love me and are wishing for my recovery, I feel hope, optimism and joy."
He expressed profound gratitude to those who visited him despite cancelled meetings. "Despite [cancelling meetings, people] came with such kindness and respect to check on me in my modest hotel room, just to make sure I was okay," he said. "Thank you from all my heart."
The alleged terror attack was carried out by Naveed Akram, 24, who has been charged with 59 offences including 15 counts of murder. He acted alongside his father Sajid Akram, 50, who was shot dead at the scene by police.
Meeting Dignitaries Before the Setback
The health scare came shortly after Mr al-Ahmed met with former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, who is now Australia’s Ambassador to the United States. The Bondi hero also visited the United States Congress in New York, meeting with senators and congress members.
In footage seen by The Mirror, Mr Rudd told him: "You did an extraordinary thing, my friend. Your image went across the world. We love you for it."
This continues a series of high-profile meetings for Mr al-Ahmed. In the aftermath of the attack, he was visited in hospital by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and New South Wales Premier Chris Minns. Mr Albanese described him as "the best of our country", while the state leader dubbed him a "real-life hero".
Reflecting on his split-second decision to charge towards the gunman, Mr al-Ahmed previously explained his motivation: "I don't want to see people killed in front of me, I don't want to see blood, I don't want to hear his gun, I don't want to see people screaming and begging, asking for help. That's my soul asking me to do that."
The world now watches and hopes for the recovery of the man whose act of incredible courage, caught on camera and shared globally, defined the response to a tragic day.
