Renowned pro surfer and Christian role model Bethany Hamilton has made a heartfelt plea for prayers and medical assistance after her 3-year-old nephew, Andrew, was found unconscious in a bathtub following a drowning incident. The toddler was discovered not breathing in shallow water on Friday night and was quickly airlifted to a hospital in Oahu, Hawaii, the next morning.

Hamilton, who rose to fame as an inspirational figure after surviving a shark attack as a teenager, took to Instagram on Saturday to share the tragic news and call for divine intervention.

“He still has a heartbeat and has fight in him,” Hamilton shared in a post, accompanied by a touching photo of her nephew holding a surfboard. “We are wrecked, but I know how proper medical support can make or break someone’s chance of survival.”

During the family’s shock and grief, Hamilton’s faith remains central. Known for her strong Christian beliefs, she has continually relied on God through difficult times, and this moment is no different. In her Instagram message, Hamilton, 34, humbly reached out to her followers for prayer and practical help.

“In this case, we’re asking for help from anyone who has information on what we can do to give my nephew the best chance,” she continued her words an expression of hope and faith, even in the face of overwhelming uncertainty.

Her brother Noah Hamilton, who is Andrew’s father, described the boy as “resilient” and an “amazing swimmer” in a statement to the Daily Mail. “He’s three-and-a-half going on five,” Noah explained. “He was found not breathing in shallow water of the bathtub, but his vitals were enough to get him to Oahu.”

Bethany’s search for hope led her to a specialist in hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), Dr. Paul Harch, a clinician renowned for his work with children who have suffered drowning incidents. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment, and according to Harch’s website, he has successfully treated drowning victims in the past. One notable case was in 1997 when he helped an unconscious child recover after a drowning accident.

Hamilton’s post underscores her belief in the power of medical intervention and in God’s ability to bring about miracles. For many who follow her journey, Hamilton is a shining example of unwavering faith. She continues to inspire others not only through her surfing achievements but also through her resilience in life’s hardest moments.

Bethany is no stranger to overcoming the odds. In 2003, when she was just 13 years old, a shark attack off the coast of Kauai claimed her left arm. However, her courage, determination, and faith in God fueled her recovery, and she quickly returned to competitive surfing. Her incredible comeback was immortalized in the 2011 film Soul Surfer, which tells the story of her faith, perseverance, and reliance on God throughout the ordeal.

Now, Bethany’s call to her faith community is for prayers as she navigates another profound family crisis. “I don’t plan on posting a lot,” she wrote to her Instagram followers on Sunday. “And will be off this space for the most part.”

In the same post, she expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support she has received thus far, demonstrating once again the power of unity in faith. As her family continues to seek medical options, they are leaning on prayer and trusting in God’s plan.

Please join Bethany Hamilton in praying for little Andrew’s healing and recovery, lifting him up in faith and hope for a medical miracle.

Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts, lifting little Andrew into Your loving care. We ask for Your healing touch upon him so that You can restore his body and bring him back to full health. Please guide the doctors and medical staff with wisdom and skill as they work to help him recover.

Lord, we know that You are the Great Physician and that nothing is impossible for You. We pray for a miracle for Andrew and ask that You grant strength and peace to his family during this difficult time. Surround them with Your love, comfort, and hope, and help them to continue trusting in Your plan.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.