Addison Bethea makes happiness a priority after surviving a shark attack
Addison Bethea
Senior, Taylor County High School
Last summer Addison Bethea faced the fight of her life. The 17-year-old was scalloping off the coast of Keaton Beach when she was attacked by a nine-foot shark.
An avid Shark Week fan, she remembered learning their eyes and gills are their most vulnerable body parts and she fought back, punching the shark. Determined to survive, she remained alert and responsive as her brother Rhett, an EMT, created a makeshift tourniquet.
In order to maximize her future mobility, surgeons rebuilt the upper thigh from soft tissue in her lower leg. Still, the injury required amputation above the knee, news that would be difficult for any active and athletic teenager.
Instead, she stayed strong and upbeat, accepting the outcome as her best path forward. Despite five surgeries, physical therapy and a long rehabilitation hospital stay, she remained in good spirits.
“Look at the positives rather than the negatives. Don’t worry about what other people think,” Bethea said. “Have fun and laugh a lot. Make your happiness a priority and keep pushing through.”
When Bethea arrived at the Prosthetic and Orthotic Associates, the staff was amazed at her progress just seven weeks after amputation. She began walking independently a week later. Less than a year later, she has returned to exercising, driving, riding four wheelers and dancing in TikTok videos with friends.
Addison Bethea is the inaugural recipient of the Endowers Choice Award for her fierce fight, fierce recovery and fierce attitude.
By Jennifer Kennedy.