Bitten by a shark, 10-year-old Jameson Jr. and his dad recount the rescue, resilience, and return to the reef that changed their lives on the Live Inspired Podcast with John O’Leary.
Jameson Reeder Sr. and his 10-year-old son, Jameson Jr., were swimming nine miles off the coast of Florida when a 9-foot bull shark appeared out of nowhere. In seconds, their peaceful snorkeling trip turned into a fight for life, and one that would test their faith, summon unexpected heroes, and reveal a little boy’s unshakable courage.
Today, Jameson Sr. and Jameson Jr. share how a terrifying shark attack led to a series of undeniable miracles. You’ll hear how strangers leapt into action, how courage showed up in the most unexpected ways, and how just weeks after the attack, Jameson Jr. asked to return to the place of the attack to face his fear.
My friends, if you need a reminder of the strength we carry, even in the most unthinkable moments, this conversation is for you. You’ll be moved by Jameson Jr.’s resilience and compassion in the face of pain, as he shows us what it means to be brave, how to forgive the unimaginable, and how to meet fear with courage, grit, and even joy.
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SHOW NOTES:
- On August 13, 2022, 10-year-old Jameson Jr., his parents and three siblings were on a peaceful family snorkeling trip, nine miles off the Florida coast.
- After swimming alongside a sea turtle, Jameson Jr. was suddenly attacked by a 9-foot bull shark.
- “Jesus is going to save me.” Jameson’s first words after the attack were calm, steady, and filled with conviction, despite the severe injuries.
- Unexpected Heroes: Immediately following the attack, a series of unexpected heroes stepped in including someone to pilot a speedboat to rush him to shore, a nurse to accompany them from the reef and countless public servants.
- Jameson Jr. began singing Here I Am to Worship while bleeding in the back of the boat.
- “Different from the world to make a difference in the world.” A Reeder family motto they live by.
- Face the reef: Just 10 weeks after the attack, Jameson Jr. returned to the site of the attack, choosing healing over fear.
- Get a copy of their book Rescue at the Reef here.
Did you enjoy today’s episode?
You’ll love my conversation with Chris Norton. After a college football injury left him paralyzed, Chris was given just a 3% chance of recovery. But with grit, hope, and relentless effort, he defied the odds by eventually walking across the stage at graduation and later down the aisle at his wedding. If you’ve ever faced a setback or needed a reminder of what’s possible, this episode is for you. Listen to Chris Norton on ep. 43 now.
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JAMESON REEDER SR. AND JAMESON REEDER JR.'S LIVE INSPIRED 7
- Q. What is the best book you’ve ever read?
A. Jameson Jr.: The Bible, specifically Psalms. - Q. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today?
A. Jameson Sr.: Childlike Faith - Q. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be?
A.Jameson Jr.: Some prosthetic gear.
- Q. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be?
A. Jameson Sr.: Apostle Paul. - Q. What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
A. Jameson Jr.: Nothing specific but it would be something from my Grandma and Grandpa Reeder. - Q. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
A.Jameson Sr.: As you grow older, know that everything will work out. Believe that as you're working towards where you are. Don't worry, believe and trust the Lord.
- Q. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read?
A. Jameson Jr.: I'm glad that I met Jameson and he's given me that wisdom for me to live for the Lord
