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2 Near-Fatal Attacks Inspire Faith

By DIANE LOEBEL

The Tampa Tribune

Published: June 7, 2008

LUTZ - Anne Hjelle was attacked by a mountain lion while biking in the California wilderness in 2004.

When she tells her story June 15 at First United Methodist Church of Lutz, she will meet a fellow survivor, the Rev. Rick Cabot, the church's senior pastor. Cabot was attacked that year by a 7-foot alligator while training for a triathlon in a lake on the church property.

Hjelle and Cabot have learned many parallel life lessons they say God gave them through their near-fatal encounters. They use these lessons to encourage and inspire others to overcome their fears.

Both have appeared on television shows and radio stations, telling their stories. Hjelle's account has appeared in numerous publications.

They learned of each other's story through the "After the Attack" series on the cable TV channel Animal Planet.

Cabot and Hjelle got to know each other through e-mail and have talked on the phone several times.

"In talking, we realized that people are wrestling with gators and lions of their own in their everyday lives," Cabot said.

He said he hopes Hjelle's appearance at the church will give hope and encouragement to the congregation.

To suggest a Faith in Focus feature, call Jeff Scullin, (813) 779-4614; write him at The Tampa Tribune, 38112 15th Ave., Zephyrhills FL 33542; or e-mail jscullin@tampatrib.com.
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF LUTZ

WHAT: Anne Hjelle will speak at the 9:15 and 10:45 a.m. services.

WHEN: June 15

WHERE: 960 W. Lutz-Lake Fern Road, Lutz

WORSHIP: 9:15 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday; children's worship, 9:15 a.m. Sunday

CALL: (813) 949-1751

ONLINE: www.fantastic first.org

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