Armless pilot Jessica Cox raises funds for PWD typhoon victims

MANILA, Philippines – Jessica Cox is the first licensed pilot in the world with no arms.
Having an inborn disability did not stop her from pursuing her dreams.
How can people living with disabilities overcome their limitations?
Ryan Macasero reports.

Jessica Cox was born without arms.
No one, including the doctors could explain why Jessica was born with this rare birth defect.
Little did she know the disability would be a source of inspiration for many people worldwide.

JESSICA COX, FIL-AM PILOT: It was a long journey. When I first walked in my room and saw that quote (on the wall), it always hits me as very powerful. All of us have a journey to self-acceptance. It was difficult to come to terms with it. As I got older it was extra difficult being laughed at, stared at, as a teenager that’s the last thing you want. The extra attention.

She first caught the world’s attention in 2008 after becoming the world’s first licensed pilot without arms.
In 2013, she was recognized as one of the “10 Best Pilots” of Plane and Pilot Magazine.
She is a martial artist, a diver, surfer, equestrian, gymnast and tap dancer.
Jessica arrived in the Philippines Tuesday night.
Working with Handicap International and the Ortigas Foundation she is here to raise funds for typhoon victims with disabilities and her documentary “Right Footed.”
This visit is special to Jessica.
Her mother, Inez Macabare, is from Bobon, near Guiuan in Eastern Samar where the devastating Typhoon Haiyan first made landfall.

COX: I know there’s been a lot of media about it. I’ve heard all of the stories. It would be something to see with my own eyes. And I’ve heard all of the stories. Just to be able to see it would show we are in solidarity.

Handicap International says disabled people are the most vulnerable in times of disaster.
The blind might not see a disaster coming, the deaf might not hear it and people in wheelchairs often get left behind and can’t escape.
According to the Philippines census there are at least 1,443,000 persons living with disabilities in the country.
Many struggle to overcome their condition when facing everyday challenges like opening doors, going up the stairs, or simply leaving the house.

COX: I think for anyone who has a struggle with a disability or even if they are full normal and still struggle with self acceptance. I want to let them know God created us unique and unlike anyone else in the world and he has great purpose in that.

Jessica Cox says its truly a gift to be different and part of that gift is helping PWDs like her live normal lives.
Ryan Macasero. Rappler, Manila.

– Rappler.com