Armless pilot and toddler hugging is the most wonderful thing you’ll see today

A photograph of an armless pilot embracing a toddler who is also missing limbs has gone viral, proving that you don’t need to have upper appendages to enjoy a hug.

Screen Shot 2015-07-30 at 12.04.29

by Ellie Hooper |
Published on

Jessica Cox, who is a motivational speaker and a certified pilot, met three-year-old Ruth Evelyn after the toddler’s mother decided it’d be good for her - telling ABC news she wanted to help her daughter overcome her disability.

We are all feeling quite blessed today as the story of Jessica and RE seems to have "gone viral". It's especially... > >

Posted by [Right Footed A documentary film about Jessica Cox](https://www.facebook.com/Rightfooted) on [Wednesday, July 29, 2015](https://www.facebook.com/Rightfooted/posts/984525891577849:0)

‘I wanted her to see she doesn’t have to have arms,’ mother Karlyn Pranke told ABC.

And Jessica is certainly an excellent model for anyone, disability or no disability.

Having been born with no arms, she is a keen sportswoman, being a third-degree black belt, competent surfer, piano player, pilot and motivational speaker.

‘I thought it would be motivating for her.’ said Jessica of meeting RE.

‘Showing that she can overcome your disability no matter what you are born with, or what you are born without.

‘You adapt to what you are given. She is able to do some feeding for herself and she’s able to use an iPad like its nobody’s business. She’s able to pick things up with her feet and carry it under her chin while she walks.’

And mum Karlyn emulated this sentiment, telling ABC: ‘It was amazing. I’m just grateful that we had the opportunity to show everyone that it doesn’t matter if you have arms or not, that you can do the same things as everyone else – you just may have to do it a little differently.

‘She loves hugs,’ the mother added - and the proof is right here in the picture.

Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website, we never allow this to influence product selections - read why you should trust us