Bethany Hamilton Reflects on Losing Arm to Tiger Shark 20 Years Later

Twenty years ago on October 31, 13-year old surfer Bethany Hamilton was attacked by a 14-foot tiger shark resulting in the loss of her left arm.

Hamilton and friend and fellow pro surfer Alana Blanchard were surfing her home spot, Tunnels Beach on the North Shore of Kauai.

Despite the tragic incident, Hamilton has persevered. She's continued to surf and serves as an inspiration for people overcoming challenges. Yesterday, she reflected on her journey since that life-changing day.

Hamilton posted the photos above yesterday and captioned them:

"20 years later… This was the location of my shark incident as a 13 year old girl.

"I’m in awe of how much God has made beauty out of something so scary and so awful. When we face challenge, it can be hard to have hope beyond our chaos, but it is essential.

"I hope that my life can be a hint of hope for you in the challenges that you face. I see the challenges along the way as a call to live in faith and to trust in God to carry me through it all! I’m so grateful to God for his faithfulness Life today…

"I have an incredible husband, 4 amazing children, one super strong arm and a body that still allows me to surf and do my thang! I see so much goodness through one of the hardest moments of my life. Thank you Jesus!!

"The past 20 years has given me the opportunity to step into a call to bring hope to others and to be a part some really amazing things.

"Check them out!: • @ohanaexperiences (mentorship for young women) • @beautifullyflawedfoundation (Incredible retreats for men and women with limb differences) But no doubt being a mom now and serving my family is the best call to my life!

"Here’s to the next 20 years!!!"

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