Bethany Hamilton

Bethany surfing after her attack. (http://blaze.prepare.co.za)

Losing an arm in a shark attack would usually cause people to give up hope. However, this isn't the case for Bethany Hamilton. Bethany Meilani Hamilton, born with saltwater in her veins, has been surfing since birth alongside her parents, Tom and Cheri. Living her whole life on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, Bethany had the dream of becoming a professional surfer. She won a numerous amount of surfing competitions which advanced her towards achieving her dream. Her dreams were put on hold when a 15-foot tiger shark attacked Bethany, causing her to lose her left arm, on October 31, 2003. Bethany's determination to get back on the board lead her to becoming an inspiring hero.

The pain that Bethany endured after the attack made it seem as if she would never surf again. However, in a short amount of time she got back on the board. "Three weeks after her accident, Hamilton was back in the ocean surfing again." (Speed) Bethany's determination to pursue her dream of surfing, even after losing her arm, sets an example for teens everywhere. She demonstrates that there's always a way to overcome the toughest obstacles in life. Bethany exhibited maturity far beyond her years when dealing with her attack. "Hamilton's reaction to what would have been a devastating game-change for most thirteen-year-olds is a testament to how her life has played out since then." (Speed). Bethany's choice to continue on in life and strive to be the best she can be, prevented her from spending her whole life as a victim. (Speed) Her overwhelming determination helps her succeed in life. Without knowing it, her choices have influenced many with difficulties. She motivates them to strive and find the light at the end of the tunnel.

The character traits that make up a hero separate them from the rest of society. Bethany Hamilton demonstrates her character trait of caring throughout her everyday life. In 2004 Logan Aldridge lost his arm in a boating accident and became faced with the same challenges as Bethany. (People Weekly) Bethany used her unfortunate experience to help Logan further accept his new way of living. Hamilton's way of dealing with her disability has become a positive influence, helping others overcome their personal challenges. Another way Bethany shows her heroic qualities is by supporting organizations across the globe. Instead of dwelling in her past tragedy, she desires to move forward and help others do the same. "Bethany serves as the spokeswoman for the beating the odds campaign, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping at-risk teens succeed in life." (New Moon Girls) Bethany's dedication to helping her community shows her true character. Even though Bethany hasn't had a life experience relating to the at risk teens, as she did to Logan Aldridge, she still feels its necessary to give back to the community. Bethany's positive actions prove her to be an inspiration to others.

Bethany Hamilton has become a hero not only for her determination to get back on the board but for the strength she instills in others. She overcame the challenge of having one arm and even achieved the dreams she set as a young child. The help and motivation she has given to others show the intensity of her caring nature. Bethany will always be remembered as the mature young girl who overcame countless obstacles to follow her dreams.