She’s an American surfer whose inspiring journey has captured the hearts of many. The name, well-known in the surfing world, rose to prominence after a life-changing event at just 13 years old—losing her left arm in a shark attack by a 14-foot tiger shark. But that didn’t stop her. In fact, the name went on to continue competing professionally, showing incredible strength and determination.
Before all the fame, the name was already making waves in the sport, starting in surf competitions at a very young age. By eight, she had already claimed her first victory—a sign of things to come. Over the years, the name became not just a symbol of resilience but also a role model for aspiring athletes everywhere.
The name even stepped into the spotlight beyond the ocean, appearing as herself in the 2014 film Dolphin Tale 2, further cementing her public presence. On a personal note, she grew up with two brothers, Timothy and Noah Hamilton, sharing a close-knit family bond.
In love and life, the name married Adam Dirks on August 18, 2013, marking the beginning of a beautiful chapter. Their family began growing in June 2015 when they welcomed their first son, Tobias. They expanded their crew again in March 2018 with the arrival of Wesley Phillip. Then, on Valentine’s Day 2021, the couple celebrated the birth of their third son, Micah.
March 2023 brought joyful news—the name and Adam were expecting their fourth child together. And in July 2023, they welcomed a daughter, Alaya, completing their growing, loving family. Through every wave and milestone, the name continues to inspire both in and out of the water.
She wrote an inspiring autobiography titled Soul Surfer: A True Story of Faith, Family, and Fighting to Get Back on the Board, which later became the basis for the 2011 film Soul Surfer. Over the years, she continued to share her journey, and in 2022, she released another powerful book called Surfing Past Fear. Through her writing, she has consistently demonstrated resilience and courage, with her story resonating deeply with readers around the world. She truly embodies strength, and her name continues to inspire countless individuals facing their own challenges.