‘Super-fit’ surfer dies after freak neck infection caused him to drop 5 STONE in six weeks

A SUPER-fit surfer died after a freak neck infection caused him to drop five stone in just six weeks.

Brad Masters, 41, reportedly weighed a healthy 90kg last year but his weight plummeted to 58kg as he fought for his life in Siloam Hospital, Bali.

The dad-of-one from Perth, Australia, went to hospital on Christmas Day after noticing a swollen gland in his jaw.

He was using antibiotics to treat pneumonia just weeks earlier but his partner Trish Kincaid said his neck was "scarlet and bigger than his head" by the time he got further medical help.

Brad's family said he underwent two major surgeries to clear the infection, but the procedures weren't successful.

The well known surf photographer went on to contract a superbug and was placed in an induced coma on life support.

The infection then spread to his lungs and gave him pneumonia.

Brad died in hospital early on Sunday, with his heartbroken family writing on social media: "It is with great sadness that we share the news of Brad's passing in the early hours of this morning.

"Brad tried really hard to stay with us but unfortunately his body was extremely weak to keep fighting.

"We will take comfort in the beautiful images he created through his photos and his quirky ways. We will miss you every second of every day."

Brad worked as a surf photographer and personal trainer and had lived in Bali for years along with his partner and son.

The thrill-seeker was known to travel the world looking for waves and amassed an enormous following by photographing the likes of Kelly Slater in the water, Daily Mail Australia reports.

Slater and Mick Fanning are among many mourners who have paid tribute to the skilled photographer who was said to be in "permanent isolation" in hospital due to Covid restrictions.

It is not clear how Brad first came to be unwell in the lead up to Christmas.

And his family desperately battled to raise funds for his treatment, which was not covered by insurance.

"He put up a hell of a fight but sadly he was so weakened that he could not fight anymore," a spokeswoman for Brad's fundraising campaign said.

"We will take comfort in the beautiful and funny memories that will ease the pain over time. It is so hard to imagine a world without you and your quirky ways.

"Your beautiful son Kai, Dad, Justin, myself, Morgan, Trish, family and friends will miss you every minute of everyday.

"The love and support that has been shown towards Brads family over the last 6 weeks will never, ever be forgotten. We cannot thank you enough and we will all be eternally grateful."

It is understood Brad's parents were able to say goodbye to their son in his final days.

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