Double amputee refuses to be a cripple - Man continues job as chef despite losing both legs

February of this year was the most trying period for Spanish Town resident Lancelot Harris. He told THE STAR that he became severely ill and was told by his doctors that they would have to amputate one of his legs due to poor circulation of his blood.

After the procedure was carried out, Harris' illness became more severe and the doctors had to remove his other leg. The wheelchair user said that he, however, remained positive and refused to feel sorry for himself.

"I just couldn't give up. A lot of persons thought I would throw in the towel but I lost my legs in order to have life, so I have to live it to the fullest. Being without legs may have slowed me down but it does not really take away from the hard-working individual that I am," he said.

The father of four is among dozens of persons that turned out at the Jamaica Health and Wellness Fair held on the grounds of the Lighthouse Assembly Church of God in Spanish Town last Friday. The two-day fair was organised by Bishop Rohan Edwards along the African Cultural Exchange, headed by New York's Dr Reginald Hughes. It benefited some 300 residents of De La Vega City and surrounding communities.

Harris was not there seeking treatment. Instead, he was accompanying his mother to get a medical check-up.

FOOD IS MY PASSION

The double amputee, who is a chef, explained with pride the passion he has for the culinary arts.

"I have been cooking since I was 17 and I am now 54 years old. I knew that the only way I could make a good dollar out of it was to get certified so I went and pursue a degree in the field at the University of Technology years ago. Food is my passion ... It is what keeps me happy and I like to see persons enjoying my handiwork," he said.

Sporting a wide grin, Harris said he is encouraging other who are faced with difficult situations not to throw in the towel but to instead push harder.

"I know persons who have lost a finger and feels it is the end of the road, but I want persons to know that life is the greatest. The doctors gave me the option because I know how severe my medical condition was. I could have died but God gave me a next opportunity to live and I am making the best of it," he said.