Athlete Testimonies:

Bethany Hamilton

Bethany Hamilton was born a surfer girl. Her parents were surfers and her older brothers were surfers. Then, on October 31, 2003, a 14-foot tiger shark changed Bethany's world. She lay peacefully atop her surfboard when a large, gray shape loomed on her left side. She felt an odd tug on her left arm. Then the water filled with blood. "Please, God, help me. God, let me get to the beach," she prayed. Hamilton's prayer was answered. She made it to the beach and the hospital. "He kept me alive that day because He had plans for me," recalls Hamilton.

Hamilton came right into the glare of the camera when the world found out about this young surfer's story. There were interviews on Inside Edition, 20/20, and The Today Show. She also visited the Crystal Cathedral and talked with Robert Schuller. Bethany has used this platform to tell others about Jesus. "I really believe God was in this whole thing. If I didn't have one arm, I wouldn't be sharing God's Word with everyone," says Bethany.

Despite all the publicity, Hamilton wants to be a typical 17-year-old girl. She is leaving her future in God's hands and taking one day at a time.

Uncommon Challenge