Bethany Hamilton: Unstoppable
by Karen Pecota

The award-winning professional surfer, Bethany Hamilton is back in the limelight in a feature documentary of her extraordinary feat to surf the most challenging of surfing waves at the Fiji Pro competition. Surfing enthusiast and film director, Aaron Lieber, makes his documentary debut with Bethany Hamilton: Unstoppable. This is the second documentary about Bethany's life that is now the extension of the first because she is truly unstoppable in her determination to be challenged as a renowned and iconic Surfer-girl.

Bethany's first documentary feature, Heart of a Soul Surfer: The Bethany Hamilton Story and then the narrative feature Soul Surfer, shares her story of how she lost one of her arms to a 14-foot-long (4.3 m) tiger shark attack. Only 13-years-old at the time, her determination to work hard to get back to the sport she loved was a no-brainier. Bethany's recovery and continued success radically shook-up the women's professional world of surfing.

Bethany Hamilton now in her late 20s, a wife, and a mother of young children continues to pursue her surfing passion but there was a time she might have given-up. Coming off the laurels of her amazing accomplishments, Lieber follows Bethany getting back into the competitive arena of surfing. Bethany, an optimistic sojourner, reveals the struggle to keep up with her surfing competition but the determination to rise above her insecurities pushed her to a new level of confidence. The mantra to go the extra mile is that thrill of adventure notorious of Bethany's destiny. She's an encouragement to generations of all ages to never give up on believing in oneself in pursuit of happiness and life goals.

Bethany's story is not only remarkable but a testimony that one doesn't become a success alone. She will lean into the help and guidance from supportive, loving and nurturing relationships. This extends to her declaration of spiritual faith which is at the core of her being and a guiding light that shines bright.

Bethany has a heart to encourage young women in their life-long journey through her own experiences. Bethany does this in many ways: a foundation called Bethany and Friends that supports women who have also lost limbs; her fitness guide called Body and Soul: A Girl's Guide to a Fit, Fun and Fabulous Life; and an App she designed to encourage young teens. In addition, two books appeared on the market June 2018, accounts of her surfing journey celebrated with co-author and husband, Adam Dirks: one is a children's book and the other a photo book. The New York Times description below:

UNSTOPPABLE ME

Unstoppable Me, written by New York Times bestselling author and champion surfer Bethany Hamilton with husband, Adam Dirks, tells the story of Makana the lion, which loves to surf but loses her nerve when she wipes out. When her friend encourages her to go back out again, Makana summons up the courage and discovers the success that comes from believing in yourself and never giving up.

BE UNSTOPPABLE

In Be Unstoppable, New York Times bestselling author and champion surfer Bethany Hamilton shares how faith, love, and passion have pushed her beyond all expectations. Alongside over sixty breathtaking photos from the making of her new documentary, Bethany Hamilton: Unstoppable, Bethany inspires readers to be bold, enjoy life, and be the best they can be. No one knows what will happen along life’s journey, but Bethany's sense of wonder and adventure found through hard work and devotion shines through all her pursuits.