The 49-year-old, who's battled depression, was hospitalized in the ICU after the incident ... and there were times it didn't look good. Back in July, he underwent surgery after a bout with pneumonia.

Now, the Hawaiian native -- who came up with stars like Kelly Slater and Jamie O'Brien -- is continuing to fight ... and his daughter is reporting the "little triumphs" he's making in his recovery.

"We are taking one day at a time and celebrating each little triumph," Kaila Toetuu said on social media ... "My dad is a warrior and fighting everyday to get better and stronger."

"He has said a few words and is now in therapy daily- physical, speech and occupational."

"My family and I thank you for your continued support for My dad as he continues to heal. It’s going to be a marathon not a sprint but we work every day to make sure he is surrounded with love, laughter and ohana."

Kaila also notes the woman in the photo is her mother, Sunny's first wife.

The family launched a GoFundMe page to help cover costs for Sunny's medical costs and it's already raised over $128,000.