The man hailed as a global hero for his bravery during the Sydney terror attack has suffered a distressing health setback while seeking specialist treatment in the United States.
A Sudden Decline in Health
Ahmed al-Ahmed, the Sydney shop owner who confronted alleged gunmen at Bondi Beach on December 14, has seen his condition worsen. In a video posted from a New York hotel room, a visibly unwell al-Ahmed explained he had to cancel appointments after experiencing "sudden swelling" in his hand and "severe pain".
"My health has declined again," he stated, lying in bed surrounded by visitors. The courageous father of two has already endured three rounds of surgery for multiple gunshot wounds sustained while disarming one of the attackers.
An Emotional Plea for Support
In his heartfelt message, al-Ahmed described the mental battle he faces as pain returns when medication wears off. "I feel discouraged," he admitted. "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 plans, saying they came "with such kindness and respect to check on me in my modest hotel room". His closing words were a direct appeal: "Thank you from all my heart. Please remember me in your prayers."
A Hero's Journey and Ongoing Ordeal
Al-Ahmed's act of bravery, which was caught on camera and went viral worldwide, occurred during a terror attack that left 15 innocent people dead. Naveed Akram, 24, has been charged with 59 offences, including 15 counts of murder. His father and alleged accomplice, Sajid Akram, 50, was shot dead by police at the scene.
The health scare comes just hours after al-Ahmed met with former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, now Australia’s Ambassador to the United States. Al-Ahmed described it as "a great honour". 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 meeting followed visits from other high-profile figures after the attack, including Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and New South Wales Premier Chris Minns. Mr Albanese labelled him "the best of our country", while Mr Minns called him a "real-life hero".
Reflecting previously on his split-second decision to act, al-Ahmed 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 global community now watches and waits, hoping for the recovery of a man who risked everything to save others.
