The ability to remain focused probably also saved the life of Bethany Hamilton, a 13-year-old professional surfer who was attacked by a shark off Makua Beach in Hawaii. She was lying on her board when the shark suddenly bit through her left arm just below the shoulder. Despite the shock, the pain, and the blood loss, she held on to her board and the shark disappeared. She swam to shore and shouted for help. She was also saved by the quick-thinking actions of her friend's father, Holt Blanchard, who used a surf leash as a tourniquet to stop the flow of blood. The attack occurred in the fall of 2003. Today Bethany is still surfing, despite the loss of her left arm, and has become an inspiration to many young surfers.