Bethany Hamilton

Bethany with her shark bitten surfboard (http://www.soulsurfer.com/gallery.html ())

A hero is someone with courage to reach their goals in life, a huge heart for others, and loves God. A hero is a person who makes a difference in other peoples lives, and is someone who people want to be, not just someone people say they admire. And that is exactly what people think of when they think of Bethany Hamilton. Other than having courage, a huge heart, and a love for God, she is extremely compassionate for people other than herself. 

Bethany in the hospital (http://sloblogs.thetribunenews.com/sidetracked/2009/05/the-shark-that-bit-bethany-hamilton/ ())

Lifeguards and doctors truly believe if it weren't for her strong water sense and faith in God she would not have been able to get through her series of tragic events. But from a young age, her parents, Thomas and Cherilyn Hamilton, taught her about Jesus Christ. When she was 5 years old, she made a huge commitment to Jesus and developed a personal relationship with Him. Bethany made a huge difference in my life and millions of other kids all over the world because she wasn't afraid to get back on her board and pursue her dreams. Because of her faith she has been able to touch thousands of people all over the world with her life story. She recently just set in motion her own charity, Friends of Bethany, which helps and supports shark attack survivors and terrified amputees, and sets out to inspire people with her life story. Every single day her story is constantly growing as she pursues to be the best at whatever God has in store for her. Bethany has been in multiple TV shows and magazines such as The Biggest Loser, 20/20, Inside Edition, The Oprah Winfrey Show, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, The Today Show, People, Time, and American Girl.

Bethany Hamilton relates to me in a few ways, but most of all is her dedication and faith in God. Of course, I can't surf like her or anything, but I sure wish I could. I think its her life style that relates to me so much because she stays strong with God at all times no matter what obstacle may happen. But just like ever other Christian out there, they all have their ups and downs with their faith, so I'm sure Bethany has those moments every once in a while. Her actions inspire me most by her fearlessness and trust in God that he will protect her through her traumatic experiences. Bethany is a huge motivation to others and me just by the courage to get back into the water and pursue her dream of being a pro surfer.

Bethany Hamilton on Nikki Beach (http://www.justjaredjr.com/2011/05/20/bethany-hamilton-soul-surfs-to-cannes/ ( Andreas Rentz))

Bethany Hamilton definitely proved what a true hero is, someone who is courageous, has a huge heart, and loves God. But not only that, she is a person who will continue to make the right decisions and encourage others to pursue their dreams exactly like she did. I hope that some day I could be just like her and show everyone the power of faith in God.