Bethany Hamilton

http://ocnjdaily.com/surfer-bethany-hamilton-excit ()

Born in Kauai, Hawaii, Bethany Hamilton is a true inspiration to all. At only the young age of thirteen, one can go through the unthinkable. Battle wounds are what most may think tear us apart, but they're exactly what this world needs to bring us together. Bethany shows characteristics of a true hero through changing the lives of others, and believing that everyone can do what they set their minds to. Despite having to face a new and challenging future Bethany decided not to let life get her down and to help others overcome their challenges. On October 31, 2003, Bethany was attacked by a 14-foot tiger shark losing her entire left arm, altering every plan she had for herself. Just months after the attack she was back on her board living life within the borders of life's many challenges!

The surfboard that was destroyed by the shark. (http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2003/Nov ())

Changing a life is saving a life. Not only has Bethany changed the lives of so many, but has shown others who may believe that life without a part of them is useless that life is truly a gift! "If you googled the word "inspirational," a picture of Bethany Hamilton ought to be the first image to appear on the screen" (Bricknell). Bethany encourages others to be themselves and to never give up no matter what happens within the course of life. Her story motivates people to be brave and to be thankful for what they have. Through every obstacle put in her path, Bethany pushed forward and persevered even in the dark times when she wanted to give up.

The books that have been written about Bethany. (http://www.surfertoday.com/surfing/6050-the-bethan ())

Challenges cause setbacks but a setback doesn't mean that we lose hope. Bethany suffered a horrific and terrifying experience at such a young age. Some people would have chosen to give up but not Bethany, she was determined to surf again. In the beginning, she faced many challenges she thought she could not overcome. Through her perseverance and strong belief in God, she accomplished what she set out to do. "It was what God had taught me growing up that helped me overcome my fear and get back on the board. 'Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go' (Joshua 1:9)" (Hamilton). Her perseverance to come back to the sport she loved and to show others they can do what they set their minds to it, makes Bethany a hero in our eyes!

A hero is someone who is the best version of them self. Heroes put others in front of themselves, they use their strong minds in order to change the lives of others...They put their mistakes behind them in a way of never looking back! Bethany Hamilton managed to make the best out of something horrible, she is a role model to people of all ages and shows others that no one ever has to lose hope due to just some minor setback!