Nurturing Resilience: The Impact of Bethany Hamilton’s Beautifully Flawed Foundation

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You may have heard of Bethany Hamilton, whether from the films depicting her story of surviving a shark attack at 13 that led to her losing her left arm or her impressive performances in various surfing competitions. However, her impact goes far beyond her amputee journey or her accolades. One of her most significant contributions is through the Beautifully Flawed Foundation.

Established in 2007, the foundation (formerly “Friends of Bethany”) provides transformative five-day retreats and experiences for young people with limb loss or limb differences. These immersive events encourage participants to step beyond their comfort zones and challenge themselves, often by trying new things, like surfing. 

In addition to these retreats, the Beautifully Flawed Foundation also organizes conferences and sends care packages to support individuals coping with limb loss. In a recent interview with SURFER, a respected voice in surf culture since 1960, Hamilton elaborated on the foundation’s mission and how it aims to bring hope and encouragement through faith. 

Driven by gratitude  

Hamilton shared that she has been driven by gratitude since the accident. She is thankful to be alive, and this mindset has helped her navigate the challenges she has faced. 

Though she faced numerous challenges, Hamilton’s love for surfing and optimism propelled her forward. At the time, she didn’t know anyone who rode the waves with one arm. However, she drew strength and encouragement from her friend Mike Coots, who successfully surfed with just one leg.  

Returning to surfing after losing an arm wasn’t easy, but Hamilton’s tenacity didn’t allow her physical limitations to hold her back. She was always willing to try things, even if she failed initially. 

Another factor that helped Hamilton return to surfing is her mindset that the ocean is an even playing field and challenges everyone equally. This mindset also helped her realize that if she could surf again, she could accomplish many other things. 

Founding the Beautifully Flawed Foundation  

The idea for the Beautifully Flawed Foundation came from the support and kindness Hamilton and her family received from their community. Through the non-profit, they initially sent care packages to people who had lost a limb or experienced a shark incident. The goal is to capture people in their most vulnerable moments before they succumb to a downward spiral. 

Then, they saw the positive impact these care packages had on the recipients. Eventually, the foundation evolved to include retreats for individuals with limb loss and limb differences. 

These retreats bring together people coping with limb loss and limb differences. They provide a safe space to address their emotions and challenges. Most participants don’t have anyone in their lives who shares their experiences, which can make them feel isolated and misunderstood.  

The retreats focus on intentional conversations, encouraging participants to reflect on their challenges and explore different approaches to overcoming them. It also offers a chance to slow down, connect, and find strength in shared experiences in a fast-paced world. 

Participants often leave a retreat with lifelong friendships with others who understand what they go through daily. 

Cultivating confidence through surfing  

For many, catching a wave for the first time despite living with limb loss or limb differences is a powerful and transformative experience, so the Beautifully Flawed Foundation's retreats also offer surfing lessons. 

Participants often report feeling a mixture of excitement, nerves, and uncertainty before they hit the water. But once they manage to ride a wave, the experience becomes a catalyst for overcoming other challenges in their lives. This accomplishment reinforces the idea that if they can surf with one arm or leg, they can tackle other obstacles with the same courage and determination.

A holistic approach to wellness  

Besides providing participants with a safe space and encouraging them to overcome physical activities, like surfing, the retreats are deeply influenced by Hamilton’s passion for healthy living, nutrition, and physical movement. She believes that eating healthy and staying active can significantly impact mental health, particularly for those struggling with depression or anxiety. So, the retreats are designed to inspire participants to develop healthy habits and enjoy nutritious food without sacrificing taste. 

By helping the participants nurture the mind, body, and spirit, they take the first step towards living a balanced life. For Hamilton, overcoming challenges requires more than just a positive mindset; it involves finding outlets like surfing, staying active, maintaining a healthy diet, and exploring one’s faith during tough times. 

Faith and hope  

Although faith is integral to Hamilton’s life, the retreats are open to all, regardless of their religious beliefs. She believes in sharing what has helped her without expecting others to adopt the same beliefs. She encourages participants to take what resonates with them and apply it to their lives. 

A positive ripple effect  

For Hamilton, the retreat experience is incredibly rewarding. She finds joy in seeing participants grow, connect, and overcome their challenges. The retreats are a source of encouragement not only for the attendees but also for Hamilton herself, as she witnesses the ripple effect of her life and story. 

The Beautifully Flawed Foundation is a testament to Hamilton’s faith, courage, and determination. Her story, from tragedy to triumph, continues to inspire many. 

For more information about the retreats, please visit Beautifully Flawed Foundation.