Jessica did wear prosthetic arms for her Phocomelia syndrome. To a degree, she said they helped her blend in when she covered them with a sweater or jacket.
But the prosthetic arms were heavy and awkward, and that she was more comfortable in using her legs and feet. So, after 11 years of having prosthetics, Jessica started embracing her wholeness.
At 14, she remembered walking without them during the first day of 8th grade. “It was the best decision I ever made.”
#Limitless: Guinness World Records First Armless Pilot
After taking up Psychology and graduating from the University of Arizona, Jessica became a motivational speaker and even got her driving license.
And then she decided to conquer yet another dream (which she also feared): flying. For 3 years, she trained to become a pilot. How the authorities would acknowledge her ability loomed over her, but she persevered and eventually got her license.
Three years later, the Guinness World Records acknowledged her as the first armless pilot who can safely fly and land a plane with her feet. “It seems impossible until it’s done,” Jessica said. And a year later, she married Patrick Chamberlaine. The two are happily married for a decade now.
Phocomelia Syndrome
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