Fourteen years ago, things were not looking promising for Bethany Hamilton after a shark attack cost the 13-year-old surfer her left arm and nearly her life. But thanks to a solid family support system and her unshakeable faith in Jesus Christ, Hamilton returned to the ocean she loved in full-force.
Today, the “Soul Surfer” author is a professional surfer, wife, and mother of two. This week, Hamilton and her husband, Adam Dirks, welcomed their second son, announcing his arrival via an Instagram post Tuesday.
“We are overjoyed to welcome our son Wesley Phillip Dirks into the world!” the photo caption reads. “It’s been a beautiful time getting life started with the four of us! We are thankful to God for our two lil guys!!!”
Dirks and Hamilton were married in 2013, welcoming their first son, Tobias, in 2015.
Faith and family are at the heart of Bethany’s work as an author, speaker, and surfer. Her most recent project, a new documentary called “Unstoppable,” is due to release this summer.
According to the film’s website, “Unstoppable” follows Hamilton’s “journey from childhood into motherhood – the ups, downs and her powerful resilience against all odds to become one of the leading professional surfers of all time.”
In 2016 alone Bethany’s capacity to inspire reached new heights as she beat a six-time world champion and the top-ranked surfer in the world at a major competition. From chasing her toddler, to chasing the biggest waves, Bethany is continuously rewriting the rules on being a fearless athlete, and brings new meaning to the phrase “Surfs Like a Girl.”
Last month, Hamilton and Dirks announced that Bethany’s inspiring tale of perseverance in the face of immense challenges is now a children’s book. In an Instagram post, Hamilton noted that the picture book is “Tobias approved.” “Unstoppable Me” will be available in bookstores everywhere June 5.