Ms. Jessica Cox

Ms. Jessica Cox, a motivational speaker, has inspired audiences in 28 countries, including major companies like NASA, AT&T, and State Farm, with her keynote talks and workshops. Born without arms, Ms. Cox overcame challenges and now flies airplanes, drives cars, and lives a full, active life—all while using her feet as hands. Author of Disarm Your Limits and a Fourth Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo, Ms. Cox is also working on The Impossible Airplane to circumnavigate the world.

Message From Ms. Jessica Cox
Being born without arms has been both a challenge and a gift, especially when it comes to seeing the world differently.
As a teenager, I wanted what everyone wants: to live freely, be accepted, and do what others could do. I had stopped wearing prosthetic arms, choosing instead to embrace life as I am. I went to school, danced, trained in Taekwondo, and at 17, I had learned to drive and earned my license.
I’ll never forget one particular week. My mom had asked me to pick up my aunt from Sam’s Club. It was one of those crowded weekends when it felt like everyone in Tucson was shopping. As I searched for my aunt through the aisles, I felt eyes on me from every direction—stares of surprise, curiosity, even discomfort. It was overwhelming.
Eventually, I ducked behind a rack of clothes and cried. I remember praying, “Why me? Why couldn’t I be normal?”
A week later, I was back at Sam’s—this time at the gas pump. I had long since figured out how to fuel my car using just my feet. As I waited for the tank to fill, a man approached, tears in his eyes.
“I’m sorry to bother you,” he said, “but thank you. My daughter lost a couple of fingers in an accident. She’s been so discouraged. But watching you today… it gave us both hope.”
That moment changed me. I realized part of my “Why me?” was this: to show others what’s
possible when we let go of what should be and embrace what can be.

I’m honored to share this message at the Jaina Convention. In learning about the Jain faith, I was especially moved by Anekantavada—the belief that truth has many perspectives. My life is a daily invitation to “Think Outside the Shoe,” as I like to say.
After all, how would you tie your shoes without arms or hands?
I’ll show you how I figured it out—and more—at the convention. I hope to see you there.
-Jessica Cox