Johnson Samuel

Founder, Life and Limb Charity

Many people ask me why our charity is so different. My answer is simple—it is a divine calling.

Throughout my life, I have been moved by the struggles of those without food, clothing, or access to education and medical care. Yet, as someone blessed with two legs, I never truly considered what life might be like for those without them—until one moment changed everything.

During a family vacation to India in 2013, we visited a nearby home to meet a family. There, I met the head of the household, a man who had lost his leg in an accident. Seeing him confined to his bed, helpless and hopeless, stirred something deep within me. That night, I couldn’t sleep. My mind was filled with questions—What do people like him go through each day? How can I help?

The very next day, I came across an article about a charity that provided artificial limbs to those in need. Soon after, I began noticing more and more people who were living without legs—each with their own story of pain and resilience.

When I returned to America, I immersed myself in learning about prosthetics. One evening, while watching television, I saw a contestant say she would use her prize money to buy an artificial leg for her husband, who had lost his in an accident. That moment sealed my conviction. I felt God was drawing my heart toward this cause.

That night, I told my wife that I wanted to go to Kerala and provide artificial limbs to at least ten people. My family immediately supported the vision, with even our children offering the small gifts they had received to help others. What began as a small family mission in 2014—providing artificial limbs to 20 people—has since grown into a lifelong commitment. Each year, we have expanded our reach with the generous support of my brothers, friends, church community, and countless well-wishers.

Behind every limb we provide is a story of renewed hope. Children and young adults who once ran freely find themselves immobilized after an accident or illness. Many sink into despair; some even lose the will to live. Our mission is to place a comma where life has tried to put a full stop—to restore dignity, mobility, and confidence.

The true meaning of my life is found in seeing these individuals take their first steps again, walking tall with courage and hope. Though I cannot help everyone, I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to help even a few rediscover the joy of living.

To date, we have provided artificial limbs to 344 people. We receive hundreds of applications every year, and while our resources limit the number we can support, our goal now is to reach 100 individuals annually.

May we continue to stand with those who feel forgotten, and together, turn their despair into determination. From the depths of my heart, thank you to everyone who has joined me on this sacred journey.

With love and gratitude,

Johnson Samuel

2018 Life and Limb distribution News12

2014 Life and Limb Distribution - Indian News

2019 Life and Limb Distribution - Indian News

2019 - Life and Limb candidate's testimonies