There's a lot of extraordinary talent in this great big world of ours — but I guarantee you that Tony Melendez is unlike any guitarist you have ever seen or heard.
Tony has been exceptional from a very, very young age. Born a "Thalidomide baby" — a term used to describe children embryonically affected by the drug Thalidomide — Tony has no hands or arms. During the late 1950s and early 1960s, it was very common for women suffering from morning sickness to be prescribed Thalidomide. Because the dangers of this drug were unknown at the time, thousands of babies were born with disabilities.
But Tony never let his disability slow him down! Until the age of 10 years old, Tony wore artificial limbs and excelled at everything. But he realized that he had become so proficient with his feet, the prosthetic arms were useless. He tossed them off and never looked back.
A man of very strong faith, Tony initially wanted to be a priest. But since it required both a thumb and a forefinger, Tony turned his attention elsewhere. He began to play guitar! Now he has toured worldwide, been kissed by the Pope, and released six albums! All without use of his arms!
I was shocked when I watched this video, and inspired when I heard Tony's remarkable story.
Please SHARE if Tony's performance brought a smile to your day!
Tony, born without hands or arms, has been faced with challenges since infancy.
When he turned 10, Tony set aside his artificial arms. "I didn't feel comfortable," he explained. "I could use my feet so much more."
Tony's music has been heard and loved all over the world. He even played for Pope John Paul II, who was so touched, he later kissed Tony in appreciation!
Please SHARE if you were shocked by Tony's unbelievable talent!
