Most of us like a good story. Whether it’s told between friends, read in a book, or shared over a crackling campfire, there’s just nothing else like it. It doesn’t really matter what kind of story you prefer; murder mysteries, love stories, thrillers…a great story is a great story.
For me, the only thing better than a great story is a great true story. Something that really happened, an experience to be shared without the need of fabrication or embellishment of the facts. Something with a personal touch.
We all have personal stories to tell. Some are stories of heroism, humor, or just something fascinating enough to keep our attention for a minute or two, but we all know that some just have better stories to tell than others. Bettina Pereira for example.
On June 23, 2008 near Catalina Island, Bettina Pereira, her husband, and their three children were watching an annual fishing tournament from their 50 ft. boat when she decided to take her small kayak out on the water for some exercise, as she often did.
She was out there enjoying the beautiful sunny day and being on the water, when suddenly there was a huge jolt from underneath that threw her and her kayak out of the water and into the air.
Instead of just landing in the water, she found herself standing in shallow water where it should have been deep. At first, confusion overtook her, but only for a second or two. Then, to her horror she realized she was standing on the back of a very large Great White Shark! As the shark started heading out to sea with her on it’s back, she jumped off and swam as fast as she could in the opposite direction and toward the closest boats. Fortunately for her they had seen what happened and were heading toward her to help. Her husband and children were also watching helplessly from their anchored boat. It was reported by one onlooker that she swam at a very fast pace. No kidding!
Believe it or not Mrs. Pereira was picked up by one of the boats with hardly a scratch on her! One thing she did come a way with, was the best fish story I’ve ever heard, and it’s a whopper! They estimated the shark to be around 15 feet long, and i f that doesn’t seem all that big to you, get a tape measure and check it out. Then imagine yourself standing on the back of that shark.
I remember how freaked out I was when I saw the Jaws movies. Every night for months I was scared half to death as I watched imaginary sharks coming up the side of my bed. I can’t even imagine the nightmares she’s probably had since that day. It’s a great story, but it’s definitely one I’m glad happened to someone else. My very best to you and yours Mrs. Bettina Pereira, and here’s to your “big fish” story.
By Janet Ramsey
