"Soul Surfer" Bethany Hamilton—who lost her left arm due to a shark attack when she was only 13 years old—inspired a lot of young girls when she hosted the third annual Make-A-Wish Hawaii Surf Camp for wish kids and their respective families.
Hamilton shared her life story with the wish kids and told them how she now juggles work with motherhood. She also encouraged them to cherish their friends and families and focus on what really matters in their life, according to the Gospel Herald.
Camp participants had nothing but praises for Hamilton. "She [Bethany] makes me want to fight my disease so I can live a long life," 12-year-old Contessa said.
Another participant from Missouri, 13-year-old Carlei, added that Hamilton was the perfect host because of how she conquered her disability. "I wanted to meet someone that went through something tough, but got through it because she was brave. Someone to tell me to stay strong and to uplift me," she said.
The adoration went both ways as Hamilton also expressed how she enjoyed the Surf Camp as she raved about the participants. "One wish girl, I was extra proud of, because she overcame her fear of the water and ended up actually surfing waves, though I bet there were a few who overcame ocean fears," she shared.
"I love just sitting and talking with the kids and sharing life. I hope all of the families enjoyed their time with our community and in beautiful Hawaii," she said.
Meanwhile, Hamilton shared on her Instagram account (@bethanyhamilton) that people must not let their fears get in the way of their passions. "Be WILLING TO TRY!" she wrote. "My passion for surfing out-weighed my fear of sharks and of maybe being unable to surf with one arm. Instead, I was willing to try surfing with one arm. Today I surf as a professional and I love what I do!"
