This week marks the 13th anniversary of the shark attack that claimed Bethany Hamilton's left arm and threatened to end her surfing career.
The attack came early in the then 13-year-old's promising amateur career and she was back in the water within a month.
Hamilton acknowledged that fateful day with an emotional post and photo on her social media channels, crediting her survival and success to the strength of her family and her faith in Christ.
"Thirteen years ago from today life with one arm began. So many doubts, fears and unknowns flooded my world," Bethany wrote. "But the hope I found as a Christian led me to overcome, along with the amazing support of my family, the kindness of my community and my life's passions."
Now at age 26, Hamilton has shared her story in a memoir and a film. She's also had a successful surfing career, gotten married, and given birth to a son. Her husband is a minister.
Hamilton lives in Hawaii with her family. Fans and friends of the athlete have also started the non-profit foundation Friends of Bethany Hamilton, which focuses on spreading messages of Christianity, particularly to youth and amputees.
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