Man with no legs not afraid to work

Despite being born without legs, Andrew Nelson has never let that get in his way.

In fact, Nelson climbs trees, farms, does landscaping, and tackles jobs that some able-bodied persons might think twice about.

Nelson lives in Simon, Clarendon. He said that because he was born with physical challenges, he had to be mentally strong. He tells people not to pity him, as he doesn't think he is any less capable than his peers.

For him, the challenges are just an opportunity to show his determination and that he can beat any hurdles that come into his way.

Though he has many skills, the one he loves best is farming. Nelson, 42, said he has been farming for 37 years now.

"Yes, I have been farming since I was five," he laughed. Nelson said that from a tender age, he has enjoyed "sticking things into the ground".

"Mi always a do something. No matter how little bit it is, mi always a put it in the ground. I grow up and just continue doing it," he said.

Regarding his landscaping and furniture-making skills, Nelson said he wasn't formally taught, but that he would observe others doing it and told himself that he could.

Things have been rough for him lately though, as a lack of water is hindering his crops.

"Look around you at the land ... it is dry. Added to that the water system is not good enough," Nelson said, even as he bemoaned the fact that he wasn't even eligible for the government's compassionate grant, a relief from the economic hardships brought on by COVID-19.

Proper water system

"Dem say you have to have TRN and NIS to get the $10,000 to do some shopping. I never get any because I trying to sort out my documents," he said.

Nelson wondered aloud about the number of persons who are in a similar position. Nelson said that without a proper water system, it makes life harder for the residents of Simon.

"There is no water, the little parish council (municipal corporation) tank that is here, if you look inside of it now, your stomach sick, because the little water that is there, muck! Water finish now, so people have to drink it. This cannot work. And people talking about wash your hands because of the COVID," he said.

The man who describes himself as "a little bit of everything", admits one source of his inner strength comes from friends who support and encourage him. In return, he likes to encourage others.

"There are chances in life that can make you successful. Think about things carefully before you give up. There are a lot of things you can do to make two ends meet," he said.