Patient story
Meet Lucky
Discover how your support helps turtles like Lucky return home.
Patient Info
SPECIES
Green Sea Turtle
aGE
5-10 Years
wEIGHT
12.1 Lbs
DATE ARRIVED
07/23/2026
ISSUE
Boat Strike
the story
About Lucky
Lucky is a juvenile green sea turtle who was found floating in a canal behind a home. The turtle had been seen floating in the area for over a week but had evaded rescuers efforts. The homeowners thankfully kept a watchful eye on the Lucky and were successfully saved the turtle. Once out of the water, volunteers from Sea Turtle Adventures responded and transported Lucky to our hospital.
Rescue
Lucky was floating and could not dive due to an old healing boat strike injury. Although unable to stay underwater, the turtle was adept enough to swim away from several rescue attempts. Covered in barnacles and algae, Lucky easily blended into the surrounding environment making them hard to spot.
Diagnose
Upon arrival, Lucky had to be stabilized due to extreme hypoglycemia. Once it was safe to perform the exam, bloodwork and radiographs were taken. Bloodwork showed signs of starvation and overall poor health. The radiographs showed fractures along the spine, ribs, and pelvis caused by a boat propeller strike.
Care
Lucky has a long road towards recovery with a guarded prognosis. The spinal injury resulted in rear flipper paralysis. The pelvic fractures have caused issues with passing stool. Lucky’s treatment plan involves intense physical therapy, supportive care, and antibiotics.
Fun Fact
Sea turtles use their rear flippers like a ship’s rudder to steer and control their buoyancy or pitch. When paralyzed, these turtles often become buoyant with their rear end higher than their front end. You may see turtles like Lucky moving their rear flippers, but these are involuntary movements. Boat strikes impacting the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and the rear flippers. Although movement can happen, the flippers cannot be controlled intentionally. Pictured above is a sea turtle’s spine which is part of the top shell or carapace.
Symbolically Adopt Lucky
Before release, patients like Lucky need extensive care. Your adoption helps cover the costs of medication, food, and rehabilitation equipment.
*Adoptions are symbolic donations that support our mission.