Jessica was born without arms due to a rare congenital disease. She did not understand why she did not have arms like other children. “It was hard to be different.”

Without hesitation, she took part in many activities, such as gym, dancing and singing presentations.

As a teen, there were times she was brought to tears of frustration because of her missing limbs; but one day she decided to focus all her energy on sports.

For Jessica, the biggest challenge was not being born without arms, but in facing prejudice; a hardship even worse than the physical defect itself.

“I’d get angry when people on the street stared at me as I walked by or because of the way I ate with my feet. But I have learned to find positive lessons in every difficult situation and through that become an example of optimism.”

Jessica finds all the support she needs from her parents, who are also role models for her.

“My mother is an example to me. She always told me that I could do anything I wanted. My father didn’t shed a tear when I was born because he didn’t see me as a victim. It’s hard to be the father of a disabled child. He’s been my rock in tough times and he has made me into the person I am today.”

She learned to drive a specially modified car. But soon after she learned how to drive, she decided to drive without the modifications, and she now holds and unrestricted drivers license.

She graduated with a degree in Psychology from the University of Arizona, and grabs attention when she fills up her car at a gas station.

She can write, blow-dry her hair, put on make up or contact lenses, just like anybody else.

At 26 years of age and 5’1” tall, Jessica is the first FAA certified pilot in the history of aviation to fly without arms.

This inspiring woman, who has become an example to many, always radiates happiness and a good sense of humor. Last year, on Mother’s Day, she flew a single engine plane carrying a banner that read, “Look Ma No Hands!”

“Sometimes, fear is based on the lack of knowledge. When I started flying, I realized that I was afraid because I didn’t know much about it.”

“People fear because they don’t believe in themselves; they don’t have faith in themselves.”

So far, she has flown a total of 130 hours.

Because of her confidence, hard work and ambition, Jessica has gone a long way to become the person she is today.

Besides being a motivational speaker, she has worked with disabled children at the International Child Amputee Network for the past five years.

Jessica Cox wants to get married and have children. “I know it will be difficult to build a family, but I know that I can be a good mother. I just don’t know how my future husband will ask for my ‘hand’ in marriage,” Jessica chuckles.

“Human beings need to go through difficult moments in life in order to have some excitement.”

“I know I don’t have arms, but this is not what determines how far I can go.”

“People are not afraid of being incapable; they are afraid of being able to overcome their limitations.”

“The bigger the difficulty, the greater the glory.”