Interview: Adam Dirks & Mike Coots Reflect on The Forge

Our very first retreat for young men with limb difference, The Forge, just wrapped up about a month ago and we are still in awe of what an incredible experience it was for all who were involved! Two of the key players who made this retreat possible were Adam Dirks and Mike Coots. Adam is not only Bethany Hamilton’s husband, but he is also the Friends of Bethany Board Chairman, while Mike Coots is a Friends of Bethany Founding Board Member, surfer, amputee, photographer and shark conservationist. This is what these two retreat leaders had to say about the event.

What is The Forge and what was the inspiration behind its creation? 

Mike: The Forge has been a vision of Friends of Bethany’s and myself for a few years now. The vision was to bring amputees from around the country to our home in Hawaii and to equip them with tools to strengthen the mind, body, and spirit. Taking what the world could view as broken, and through mentorship, skill-building and prayer come out stronger than steel and ready for any challenge.

Adam: When Bethany and her family created her non-profit, they were seeking ways to not only inspire those within her influence but to equip others to overcome the hardships that everyone faces at some point. Friends of Bethany started doing retreats for young women with limb difference about seven years ago, and we saw an incredible impact in the lives of the women who attended. We knew that we needed to provide a similar experience for young men that have limb difference as well. 

There are no programs out there that are centered around a holistic approach to healing and dealing with the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of men that are living with a limb difference. The Forge was created to provide an amazing experience that is fully focused on healing, growth, and the creation of a supportive community.

What were the goals or expectations for the retreat and what did you achieve? 

Mike: My goal was to take the blessings and knowledge others have shared with me and pass the stoke forward. I was incredibly surprised and proud of how well everyone did surfing. It’s truly one of the hardest sports to learn, and in one day the stoke was palpable and everyone was riding waves like they had been for years. I also was so proud of how everyone opened up, was mindful, present and energetic every day all day. The group worked so well as a team, and I think we can build on what that week was about and share it with many others. It truly became a week that no one would forget.

Adam: The Forge blew all expectations that we had for our attendees out of the water. First off, coming to Kauai and experiencing and seeing God’s creation here creates such a powerful atmosphere. It’s hard to stop staring at the mountains, waves, and the stars on a clear night. That really set the tone for everyone that we are a part of something bigger than ourselves. This environment brought the guys to a point where they were willing to receive the tools we were providing them.

Our amazing health and posture team were able to effectively work with each attendee personally, and as a whole group, and equip them with life-giving posture/exercises and workouts to take home with them. Our group sessions that were focused on spiritual growth were so encouraging and ground-breaking for each and every guy. Not only were the guys becoming more physically confident and powerful, but the things happening inside their hearts was life-changing, and I could see that in their smiles and laughter. 

Is there a special moment or memory that stands out for you? If yes, what did it mean?

Mike: I began the retreat as a teacher, but in the end learned so much about myself that I became a student. To me, that’s the greatest unexpected gift I received. I am so proud of each and every person there, including the staff that helped make it truly a magical week!

Adam: There were so many incredible moments during the Forge: canoeing the Hanalei River, taking an ATV ride down a mountain stream trail, everyone surfing and catching waves for the first time of their lives… and yet somehow the biggest moment of the retreat was our last night. We spent hours talking about life, the real stuff that matters. We created a tribe that is going to hold each other to our commitments, going to be there for one another when we stumble and fall, and also be there to celebrate with one another when we succeed. That really blew me away… that we created a strong tight community in just a few days.

If you know a young man living with limb loss who would benefit from our programs, please contact us at info@beautifullyflawedfoundation.com!

Want to see more of The Forge? Check out more photos and videos on social media!

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