'Soul Surfer' Speaks for Danville Teen Organization

Bethany Hamilton, the blonde-haired surfer who lost her arm to a shark while surfing off Kauai’s North Shore in Hawaii when she was 13 will be a guest-speaker for an event hosted by the Danville-based non-profit, Teen Esteem, on Oct. 9

Hamilton's inspiring story was featured in the movie “Soul Surfer," and will speak for the organization that aims to empower teens "with the courage and the tools to make sound decisions ... for the rest of their lives when confronted with risky adolescent behavior."

Tickets for the event sold out in 24 hours, said Kent Wisenor, who's involved with the event.

The "Fun!-d-raiser Beach Party" includes dinner, dessert and activities. While tickets are sold out, there are still sponsorship packages that include tickets which are still available.

Hamilton will be sharing her incredible journey and how she overcame the challenges of losing her arm in a shark attack.

One month after the attack, she returned to the water to continue pursuing her goal to become a professional surfer. Just over a year after the attack she won her first national title.

In 2007, she realized her dream and turned pro.

Teen Esteem educates teens and their parents through classroom presentations, assemblies, community workshops and parent education events.

Volunteer Teen Esteem speakers discuss issues prevalent on high school campuses such as depression, suicide, prescription drug abuse, binge drinking and sexual activity.

The event will be held at Super Franks in Pleasanton on October 9, and run from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Guests our encouraged to wear their best Hawaiian shirts.