### Tragic Loss: Bethany Hamilton's Family Mourns the Death of Nephew Andrew Hamilton

Surf icon Bethany Hamilton and her family are grappling with the heartbreaking loss of her nephew, Andrew Hamilton. The young boy, just three years old, passed away on October 17, 2024, after being found unconscious in a partially filled bathtub a week prior.

Andrew, who was born on December 26, 2020, is the son of Bethany’s older brother, Timothy Hamilton, and his wife, Kyah Hamilton. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, Andrew succumbed to the injuries sustained in the accident, as noted in a poignant Instagram post shared by Timothy on October 19.

Timothy, alongside his wife Kyah and their children Thomas, Joshua, Matthew, Noelle, and John, mourns the loss of Andrew. His passing is equally felt by his grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and the congregation of Saint Matthew's Lutheran Church. Pastor William Pierce has been a pillar of support to the family during this sorrowful period.

Bethany Hamilton, known for her resilience after surviving a 2003 shark attack that left her without a left arm, shared her own tribute on Instagram. "The Lord has received my sweet nephew Andrew into His beautiful care," she wrote, expressing her family's trust in their faith despite the profound loss. Bethany also shared a heartfelt prayer from her brother, emphasizing the family's unwavering faith in God's greater will.

In his message, Timothy conveyed the indescribable pain of losing his son, but also highlighted the family's hope and faith. He wrote about the comfort they found in their belief that Andrew, baptized and cleansed by God's grace, is now an heir to heaven.

A fundraising page set up for the Hamilton family detailed the tragic sequence of events leading to Andrew's hospitalization. On October 11, Andrew had developed a fever and vomited before being found unconscious in a bath with just six inches of water. Despite being a strong swimmer, he could not be revived at Wilcox hospital and was subsequently transferred to a medical facility in Oahu, where he suffered further complications.

Noah Hamilton, the family's eldest brother, shared his grief on Facebook, reminiscing about a recent surfing outing with Andrew. "We had so much fun," he recalled, expressing his disbelief over the accident but finding solace in the belief that Andrew is now singing with angels.

The Hamilton family’s enduring faith and the overwhelming support from their community have been sources of strength as they navigate this period of unimaginable loss.