Bethany Hamilton, a native of the beautiful Hawaiian islands, embarked on her surfing journey at the tender age of eleven. By the time she reached thirteen, she had already established herself as a skilled and respected surfer, earning a reputation within the surfing community that was second to none.
However, it was a harrowing and life-altering incident that would catapult Bethany to national prominence. On October 31, 2003, a tiger shark brutally attacked her, severing her left arm just below the shoulder. This devastating event occurred while she was competing in a local surf competition off the coast of Kauai.
Despite the enormity of her injury, Bethany's indomitable spirit and unwavering determination enabled her to make a remarkable recovery. With the support of her family, friends, and medical team, she persevered through a long and arduous rehabilitation process.
In the years that followed, Bethany's remarkable story inspired countless people around the world, and she became an iconic figure in the surfing community. Her remarkable resilience and courage in the face of adversity have made her a true inspiration to many.
Bethany's incredible journey has also been immortalized in a bestselling book, 'Soul Surfer', which was published by MTV Books. The book has been adapted into a major motion picture, further cementing Bethany's status as a surfing legend and a true American hero.
