Bethany Hamilton

(http://www.grindtv.com/athlete/bethany-hamilton/)

If you got your arm bit off by a shark would you get back in the water? Born on February 8, 1990. She began surfing at a young age. At age eight she entered her first competition where she won the short and long board divisions. Succeeding in every competition she entered, she dreamed of going pro. On October 31, 2003, she was attacked by a 14-foot tiger shark. It left her with a severed arm. After several surgeries and losing 60% of her blood she was on her way to recovery with a positive attitude. She returned to competitions in January of 2004 and didn't do so hot so she gave up hope for awhile. She had it in her mind that she didn't want to surf anymore. But after long afternoons with nothing to do she decided to get back on the board. Just over a year after the attack she took first place in the explorer women's winning her first national title. Well Bethany Hamilton did all this. Bethany Hamilton is bold because she is faithful, strengthening, and never gave up.

She was faithful through all her injuries. She never completely lost faith in God through all her injuries. He is always faithful. When she gave up hope He was right there, telling her that He is right there with her and she can succeed. She is inspiring, she showed me how hard it is to stay faithful. She also showed me that it also works out in your benefit.

(http://www.google.com/search?tbm=isch&hl=en&source=hp&biw=1680&bih=896&btnG=Search+Images&gbv=2&oq=bethany+hamilton+&aq=f&aqi=&gs_upl=1616l6317l0l11028l17l13l0l0l0l0l0l0ll0l0&safe=on&q=bethany%20hamilton&orq=bethany+hamilton+)

She strengthened people along the road. Even when she didn't realize she was showing people what God can do and that strengthened them in their relationship with him. People who heard her story were strengthened just by hearing it, not by knowing her. Altogether, she strengthens people more than she realizes.

She never gave up on her on her dream. Well at one time she did, but she just got right back on the board and succeeded. She showed me no matter what happens if you are doing something you love, never give up and you can succeed. With the help of God, she did what she loved. That is an amazing feeling just knowing God is by your side.

The fact that Bethany was able to succeed all those things is amazing. She once thought she would never be able to do all these things. Even without realizing it, she accomplished way more than anyone thought she would. She has by far exceeded anyone's expectations. Bethany has showed us what succeeding is like.