Writer, surfer and shark attack survivor, Bethany Hamilton may have only just turned 18, but she's already achieved more than most people three times her age.
The Rip Curl international team member has just had one of her most successful competitive seasons ever - finishing third in the Women's World Qualifying Series (WQS), and on her 18th birthday, she announced that she was joining the team for enviornmentally savvy footwear company Ocean Minded Inc.
But, as well as career success, Beth recently made time to give back to some fans - inspired by her brush with death, positivity and determination.
Through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, two young fans were granted a dream come true: to meet, get a surf lesson or two and swim with their hero - Hamilton - in one of her local breaks - Hanalei Bay, Hawaii.
Fourteen-year-old Lauren is battling the condition Adhesive Arachnoiditis, while sixteen-year-old Katie has Cystic Fibrosis; both girls wanted to meet Bethany after reading her book and being inspired by her courage.
Story courtesy of Rip Curl USA. For more on Make-A-Wish log on www.wish.org.
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Images: Nick Hamilton @ www.RipCurl.com