With the surfer and her family facing mounting medical costs, and with Heather’s loss of income due to the accident and the lengthy recovery process taking her out of commission from her other job as swimming instructor and surfing coach, it didn’t take long for members of the global surfing community (and their friends and supporters) to jump into action and find ways to help.

From virtual calls for donations on the web, to a recent fundraiser in Bournemouth in the UK, the support has been amazing.

Heather and her family have expressed their gratitude in a letter that was published on Surfline.com today:

“Heather and her family are very touched by the awesome love and support shown by everyone all over the world. A huge thank you to all of you who have contributed towards the fund – thank you so much!

The hospital costs are already quite formidable and they require most of the costs upfront which is a daunting prospect for the family. Heather was also supposed to have started her swimming school next week and now will not be able to do so, which means a loss of income for her. Please help where you can and spread the word – every little bit, no matter how insignificant you might think it would be, WILL help. Your contributions despite the economic recession mean a great deal to Heather and her family.”

If you would like to help by contributing to the JettyGirl Benefit for Heather Clarke, you can do so by going here.