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Kevin Hines was just 19 years old when he made the biggest mistake of his life. On September 25, 2000, this young man from San Francisco walked onto the Golden Gate Bridge and jumped off. What happened next shows the power of faith, second chances, and the will to live.
Hines had been struggling with bipolar disorder after doctors took him off seizure medication. His world felt dark and hopeless. But the moment his hands left that bridge railing, he knew he was wrong about everything.
During his terrifying fall toward the water 220 feet below, Hines realized he wanted to live. He managed to turn his body to hit the water feet first instead of head first. This split-second decision saved his brain from certain death.
What happened in the water can only be called a miracle. As Hines struggled to stay afloat with broken bones, a sea lion appeared beneath him. This amazing creature kept him floating until the Coast Guard arrived to pull him to safety.
Out of nearly 1,800 people who have jumped from this bridge since 1937, only about 40 have lived to tell about it. Hines beat odds that were 99.9 percent against him. That kind of survival doesn’t happen by accident.
Today, this brave American travels the country sharing his story with others who feel hopeless. He proves that no matter how dark life gets, there is always hope for a better tomorrow. His message is simple but powerful: suicide is never the answer.
Hines now runs a foundation that helps prevent suicide and supports mental health. He shows us that our worst moments don’t define who we become. With faith, family support, and personal strength, anyone can overcome their darkest hour.
This story reminds us that every life has value and purpose. When someone reaches out for help, we must be ready to catch them. Kevin Hines jumped off a bridge but found his way back to the American dream of second chances and redemption.
