Florida Alligator Attack Survivor Dr. Amber Perren Opens Up About Harrowing Ordeal and Recovery

By Ronald Rodriguez Last updated Sep 10, 2025

Stuart, FL – In a chilling encounter earlier this summer, Dr. Amber Perren, an optometrist from Stuart, Florida, survived a terrifying alligator attack on the St. Lucie River in Martin County. Months after the traumatic event that left her with severe injuries, Dr. Perren courageously shared details of her fight for survival and ongoing recovery.The attack, initially thought to involve an 11-foot alligator, has now been confirmed to have been from an 8-foot male alligator. Despite the size discrepancy, the incident was life-threatening, with Dr. Perren enduring broken bones, a severed radial artery, and lasting numbness.

A Fight for Survival: Dr. Amber Perren’s Experience

Dr. Perren, who relies heavily on her hands to operate her optometry clinic, described the moment the alligator latched onto her hand. “My hand was just hanging,” she said, explaining how she was “just punching his head” in a desperate attempt to escape. She recalled their eye-to-eye encounter with the gator and her instinctive mindset to “get away.”

Her husband played a crucial role in the rescue, bravely entering the water amidst the danger. He described pulling her back from the alligator’s grasp in a tense struggle. Their quick actions enabled Dr. Perren to get to safety, but not before sustaining severe injuries that required five surgeries and airlift transport to a trauma center.

“You could tell it was really bad right away,” her husband said, reflecting the severity of the attack.

Ongoing Challenges and Medical Concerns

Despite the surgeries, Dr. Perren faces long-term effects, including numbness in her thumb and wrist, though she can now wiggle her fingers. Medical experts highlight the risk of infection from the Aeromonas hydrophila bacteria commonly found in alligator teeth. Such infections require careful monitoring and treatment following attacks.

Understanding the Rarity of Alligator Attacks in Florida

While the attack was harrowing, statistics show that such incidents are extremely rare. With an estimated 1.3 million alligators and a combined population of over 166 million residents and tourists in Florida, there are only about 7-8 unprovoked alligator attacks reported annually.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) estimates 1.3 million alligators statewide
Florida population: approximately 23.4 million residents
Tourism adds an additional 143 million visitors annually
Only 7-8 unprovoked alligator attacks occur each year

Dr. Perren’s case was a freak accident, underscoring the importance of vigilance around water bodies. The FWC advises always assuming alligators may be present, even if not visible, and practicing safety wherever there is potential exposure.

For those interested in learning more about coexisting safely with Florida’s alligator population, comprehensive guidance is available through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Read the full details and interview with Dr. Amber Perren at BroBible.

What Can We Learn From This Incident?

Dr. Perren’s survival and ongoing recovery highlight not only the dangers posed by wildlife but also the incredible resilience of individuals in life-threatening situations. Her husband’s quick thinking and bravery reinforce the importance of support and immediate action during emergencies.

Key takeaways include:

Immediate response is critical during wildlife encounters
Understanding medical risks like bacterial infections is essential post-attack
Public awareness and caution can help prevent rare but serious attacks

What do you think about this harrowing alligator attack story? Have you ever encountered wildlife unexpectedly in Florida? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!