The Story of Bethany HamiltonBethany Hamilton was born to a family of surfers and started surfing at a young age. By the time she was eight, she was competing in local competitions. At thirteen, Bethany was well on her way to achieving her dream of becoming a professional surfer.However, on October 31, 2003, Bethany's life took a dramatic turn. While surfing off the coast of Kauai, Hawaii, she was attacked by a 14-foot tiger shark. The shark bit off her left arm just below the shoulder. Despite the severity of the injury, Bethany was determined not to let this tragic event derail her dreams.Bethany's recovery was remarkable. Just one month after the attack, she returned to the water to pursue her passion for surfing. With the support of her family, friends, and her faith, she adapted to her new reality and found ways to balance on the board and ride the waves with one arm.In 2004, less than a year after the attack, Bethany entered her first major competition since the injury. She didn't just compete—she excelled. Bethany won fifth place in the Open Women's division of that competition. Her courage and determination were widely celebrated, and she quickly became a symbol of hope and resilience.