No Arms, No Legs, No Problem: When life happens, you can wish to die or choose to live

Bob Lujano has written a marvelous book. It’s not marvelous because it’s eloquent but because it’s the story of a man who has faced tremendous difficulties in life, including the amputation of all four limbs, and yet has been an overcomer on all fronts. It reminds me of the verse, “In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us,” or as another version of the Bible puts it, “Despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ” (Romans 8:37). In this book you’ll read about a little boy who suffered abuse when he was growing up, whose mother left him, who got sick and lost his limbs at the age of 9, and yet went on to do things, even as an athlete, that most of us couldn’t--and who works every day to help disabled people do the same sort of things. He’s a man who’s able to write, “The Lord did not cause my illness, but I will always believe that he intended to use it for the benefit of others. I believe He had a role and a function for me to play in His will. … Losing my limbs was the best thing that ever happened to me. Look at what I would have missed!” He has a great attitude, and reading about it makes me want to overcome my own negativity and pessimism. Near the end he says, “Some people mistake my attitude as something that is not believable or achievable. It is a daily choice. Bitterness and joy cannot inhabit the same space at the same time. I choose joy.” He has great faith, too, and he explains, “Faith … can do so much for you, it can take you places you never thought possible, you will do things far greater than you thought you could accomplish, you will have opportunities you wouldn’t have had otherwise.” He’s certainly proven that true. Read the book and see.

An amazing read that touches the eternal soul! No stone goes unturned in this incredible journey of a man who chooses life, and then defies the odds; to actually go take it! This book defines what life is truly about and shows what real love is! This read offers what real challenges are and that love, dedication, family, hard work and most importantly Jesus, is why we all should choose to live! Anyone who is struggling or going through a tough time, truly needs to read this book. A great read and I read this book in 5 hours. I could not put it down. Great narrative and insight from Tara Schiro, and an amazing story by Bob Lujano; the description and details of his life were painted so clearly in front of me; that the words were like watching a movie. Loved loved loved this book. A must read for all who have or desire hope!!!!

What an inspiration! Interesting to read about someone who was an inspiration to our family many years before reading the book! Bob was responsible to teaching our son (paraplegic) to swim, play basketball, tennis, football and many other wheelchair events... my son has many memories of trying to tell me 'I can't", only to have me reply "You willing to tell Bob that you can't do that?"... The book itself is well written and the subject is a TRUE gem in so many ways! What a blessing - we hope many will read and enjoy and maybe even be blessed to KNOW Bob!!!

We live in a world that seems so very obsessed with victims and trying to LIFT them out of their strife. Bob Lujano, his life and story, is an example of not just LIFTING but LEADING. I have been a physical therapist for almost 20 years, working that entire time with some of life's most devastating injuries and illnesses. I still need help in trying to more accurately sympathize and work with someone trying to repurpose their life in the wake of lost abilities. Tara and Bob have painted a great picture of what is possible through faith and perseverance, grabbing on to opportunity but willing push yourself when you are able. I have known Bob for 15 years. In this time he has been a constant reminder that lost ability is not lost hope, potential, or value. We are all created in the image of God and presented with a few years and many challenges to reveal and refine our nature and eternal purposes. Let this book bridge the gaps you might have in understanding life's speed bumps and obstacles.

I started this review about ten times and each time I stopped because I didn't know how to proceed. So, I will keep it simple. Tara Schiro and Bob Lujano weave a true tale about the pure heart of a boy who never lost his faith as he faced seemingly insurmountable trauma/illness. His words are eloquent, effortless, faithful, and at times a barely audible whisper that speaks only to your soul. Bob speaks of his faith in a way that doesn’t point fingers, or tries to make you feel you must believe in what he says, he only asks that you listen. Tara and Bob share his deeply honest story as a way for us to understand how he has been able to accomplish so much in his life when many would crumble. Whatever your beliefs may be, I hope you get a gift from his words, just as I did.

One of the best books I have ever read. Just when you think Bob's life can't get harder, it does. Even though we know that Bob eventually loses his legs and arms, when it happens in the story it manages to hit you like you didn't know it was coming, which was a true feat. Mrs. Schiro was able to do a fine job of telling Bob's story, and her chapters, written from the view of an able-bodied person, ensure that both disabled and non-disabled people can benefit from/understand the book and its story. Bob offers everyone wisdom, and even though I myself am disabled (Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy) Bob's story greatly changed my view of how disabled people should act/be treated by able-bodied people. The book firmly convinced me that having no arms and no legs does not have to do a person in. Bob has never given up, and even though he has to do things in a different way, he is just like everyone else. I am so glad that I have gotten to know Bob throughout my comings and goings at the Lakeshore Foundation. I recommend this book 100%.

A truly inspirational book about not just overcoming mind boggling adversity but thriving! All of us are dealt challenges in life - be it physical, emotional, financial, family or overwise. Through his no self pity, determined response to all he was dealt, Bob provides a blue print for the rest of us. Bob's life is such an incredible story that it would have been easy to tell it in a way that placed him on a pedestal. But Bob never takes the easy way out, to his credit he includes the passages of his life that show he has the same desires and frailties as the rest of us. If you are dealing with adversity, know someone who is or just want to be inspired, you must read this book.

This is an unbelievable story of what one man has overcome and the positive outlook he has on life. Bob makes the most of what he does have through heart and faith. The author does a great job of detailing Bob's amazing journey. Bob's story pulls at so many heart strings throughout the book. As you read the story one is forced to take inventory of how we live life and how we take for granted so many things. The story highlights the importance of making a choice to live our life, regardless of what we come against, to the absolute fullest. Bob shares so many examples of the redemption many of us look for through various outlets. One of the things I appreciated most about the book is that in one chapter the author can be pulling at your heart as you fight back the tears. Then, in another chapter, Bob's outlook on his situation can leave you all smiles (even laughing) thinking about the good we can find in all situations.

A reminder that the biggest obstacle in someone's life is their mind and perception! Bob's character is what needs to be the focus of people's curiosity, not his differences with his body! As someone whose profession is to work with children with physical challenges, I will forever be reminded not to project limitations on their abilities. Bob's ability to achieve what he has physically, spiritually, and emotionally is incredible. He illustrates that although a family may be dysfunctional, it's your choice to find the love and support and grab the goodness of each situation. This book is more about how to approach life than a fascination of a unique disability. It has changed how I approach parenting my son through typical life challenges. Recommend it for everyone!

What an amazing story. The mental attitude of Bob is astounding. Everyone should read this book......then immediately stop whining!

Bob Lujano has written a marvelous book. It’s not marvelous because it’s eloquent but because it’s the story of a man who has faced tremendous difficulties in life, including the amputation of all four limbs, and yet has been an overcomer on all fronts. It reminds me of the verse, “In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us,” or as another version of the Bible puts it, “Despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ” (Romans 8:37). In this book you’ll read about a little boy who suffered abuse when he was growing up, whose mother left him, who got sick and lost his limbs at the age of 9, and yet went on to do things, even as an athlete, that most of us couldn’t--and who works every day to help disabled people do the same sort of things. He’s a man who’s able to write, “The Lord did not cause my illness, but I will always believe that he intended to use it for the benefit of others. I believe He had a role and a function for me to play in His will. … Losing my limbs was the best thing that ever happened to me. Look at what I would have missed!” He has a great attitude, and reading about it makes me want to overcome my own negativity and pessimism. Near the end he says, “Some people mistake my attitude as something that is not believable or achievable. It is a daily choice. Bitterness and joy cannot inhabit the same space at the same time. I choose joy.” He has great faith, too, and he explains, “Faith … can do so much for you, it can take you places you never thought possible, you will do things far greater than you thought you could accomplish, you will have opportunities you wouldn’t have had otherwise.” He’s certainly proven that true. Read the book and see.

An amazing read that touches the eternal soul! No stone goes unturned in this incredible journey of a man who chooses life, and then defies the odds; to actually go take it! This book defines what life is truly about and shows what real love is! This read offers what real challenges are and that love, dedication, family, hard work and most importantly Jesus, is why we all should choose to live! Anyone who is struggling or going through a tough time, truly needs to read this book. A great read and I read this book in 5 hours. I could not put it down. Great narrative and insight from Tara Schiro, and an amazing story by Bob Lujano; the description and details of his life were painted so clearly in front of me; that the words were like watching a movie. Loved loved loved this book. A must read for all who have or desire hope!!!!

What an inspiration! Interesting to read about someone who was an inspiration to our family many years before reading the book! Bob was responsible to teaching our son (paraplegic) to swim, play basketball, tennis, football and many other wheelchair events... my son has many memories of trying to tell me 'I can't", only to have me reply "You willing to tell Bob that you can't do that?"... The book itself is well written and the subject is a TRUE gem in so many ways! What a blessing - we hope many will read and enjoy and maybe even be blessed to KNOW Bob!!!

We live in a world that seems so very obsessed with victims and trying to LIFT them out of their strife. Bob Lujano, his life and story, is an example of not just LIFTING but LEADING. I have been a physical therapist for almost 20 years, working that entire time with some of life's most devastating injuries and illnesses. I still need help in trying to more accurately sympathize and work with someone trying to repurpose their life in the wake of lost abilities. Tara and Bob have painted a great picture of what is possible through faith and perseverance, grabbing on to opportunity but willing push yourself when you are able. I have known Bob for 15 years. In this time he has been a constant reminder that lost ability is not lost hope, potential, or value. We are all created in the image of God and presented with a few years and many challenges to reveal and refine our nature and eternal purposes. Let this book bridge the gaps you might have in understanding life's speed bumps and obstacles.

I started this review about ten times and each time I stopped because I didn't know how to proceed. So, I will keep it simple. Tara Schiro and Bob Lujano weave a true tale about the pure heart of a boy who never lost his faith as he faced seemingly insurmountable trauma/illness. His words are eloquent, effortless, faithful, and at times a barely audible whisper that speaks only to your soul. Bob speaks of his faith in a way that doesn’t point fingers, or tries to make you feel you must believe in what he says, he only asks that you listen. Tara and Bob share his deeply honest story as a way for us to understand how he has been able to accomplish so much in his life when many would crumble. Whatever your beliefs may be, I hope you get a gift from his words, just as I did.

One of the best books I have ever read. Just when you think Bob's life can't get harder, it does. Even though we know that Bob eventually loses his legs and arms, when it happens in the story it manages to hit you like you didn't know it was coming, which was a true feat. Mrs. Schiro was able to do a fine job of telling Bob's story, and her chapters, written from the view of an able-bodied person, ensure that both disabled and non-disabled people can benefit from/understand the book and its story. Bob offers everyone wisdom, and even though I myself am disabled (Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy) Bob's story greatly changed my view of how disabled people should act/be treated by able-bodied people. The book firmly convinced me that having no arms and no legs does not have to do a person in. Bob has never given up, and even though he has to do things in a different way, he is just like everyone else. I am so glad that I have gotten to know Bob throughout my comings and goings at the Lakeshore Foundation. I recommend this book 100%.

A truly inspirational book about not just overcoming mind boggling adversity but thriving! All of us are dealt challenges in life - be it physical, emotional, financial, family or overwise. Through his no self pity, determined response to all he was dealt, Bob provides a blue print for the rest of us. Bob's life is such an incredible story that it would have been easy to tell it in a way that placed him on a pedestal. But Bob never takes the easy way out, to his credit he includes the passages of his life that show he has the same desires and frailties as the rest of us. If you are dealing with adversity, know someone who is or just want to be inspired, you must read this book.

This is an unbelievable story of what one man has overcome and the positive outlook he has on life. Bob makes the most of what he does have through heart and faith. The author does a great job of detailing Bob's amazing journey. Bob's story pulls at so many heart strings throughout the book. As you read the story one is forced to take inventory of how we live life and how we take for granted so many things. The story highlights the importance of making a choice to live our life, regardless of what we come against, to the absolute fullest. Bob shares so many examples of the redemption many of us look for through various outlets. One of the things I appreciated most about the book is that in one chapter the author can be pulling at your heart as you fight back the tears. Then, in another chapter, Bob's outlook on his situation can leave you all smiles (even laughing) thinking about the good we can find in all situations.

A reminder that the biggest obstacle in someone's life is their mind and perception! Bob's character is what needs to be the focus of people's curiosity, not his differences with his body! As someone whose profession is to work with children with physical challenges, I will forever be reminded not to project limitations on their abilities. Bob's ability to achieve what he has physically, spiritually, and emotionally is incredible. He illustrates that although a family may be dysfunctional, it's your choice to find the love and support and grab the goodness of each situation. This book is more about how to approach life than a fascination of a unique disability. It has changed how I approach parenting my son through typical life challenges. Recommend it for everyone!

What an amazing story. The mental attitude of Bob is astounding. Everyone should read this book......then immediately stop whining!

Great inspirational book by one amazing man! I am so glad to know Bob and I have always said he was an amazing person inside and out and this book just proved all of that and more! If you are ever in the Birmingham area you should stop by The Lakeshore Foundation and meet Bob! He and Kevin Orr are the first two people I ever met there and they are both amazing people! Please read his story and push yourself to be more like Bob!!!!

This is the first review I have ever written for a book on Amazon. I was blown away by Bob's honesty in this book. I couldn't set the book down and was hooked until I finished it. Although I've met Bob through rugby and already highly regarded him, reading his story in its entirety increased my respect for him even more. It's truly a must-read.

An easy read and very uplifting book. I honestly believe this should be a mandatory read for all teens today. If it were, there would be much less teen suicide in the country. Bob shows how fulfilling life can be once you put your future in God's hands and just do your very best. Giving up was not an option for Mr. Bob Lujano. Tara does a wonderful job of telling Bob's story while including some of her own. Easily read in a few days.

One of the best biological books I've read in a good while. It is a great book with a good testimony of faith and belief in God. It is a book about overcoming difficulties that would keep any other person down unless they are driven and have a driving force behind them to keep them motivated and to find joy in the little things and make the most of life. I urge you to buy this book and read it. You will be moved and you'll laugh.

This guy never quits. Like the Energizer Bunny he just keeps on keeping on. I will think about him whenever I think I have it bad and try to keep on keeping on myself.

I am the mother of a child that the world has labeled “DISabled” and I find Bob’s honesty about challenges refreshing – both in this book and in real-life. I am resisting the urge to quote many scriptures that have helped me over the years; however, I echo Bob’s devotion to Christ as The Way through this life regardless of what you face. Thank you, Bob, for your example of how to live with grace and for sharing your complete story. ~ Trish

WOW! Fantastic Book that will really hit you in the gut. It will have you laughing, crying and most of all thinking. I am fortunate enough to know Bob and I'm a better person because of him and his attitude. He's such an inspiration to so many and it's great to see that come through in No Arms, No Legs, No Problem. I highly recommend this book and I DARE you not to be a better person after reading it. Good Work Bob!

Very inspirational!

What an incredible inspiration and outlook on life!! Bob got it right, its a gift, a gift from God!! Thank you Tara and Bob for reminding me. God Bless you both! P.S. This is a must read for EVERYONE!!!

Everyone should read this book. Great inspiration.

Such an amazing story! The positivity that he has regardless of the troubles in his life are inspiring and really made me think how I take so much for granted and focus on such petty problems. One of my college classes now has this book listed as an optional reading after I told my professor about it. Definitely a story everyone should read.

Certainly one of the most inspirational books ever written.

I truly enjoyed reading this book and I will recommend it to anyone. Not only is inspirational, but it is also encouraging and uplifting. Thank you for sharing your story with all of us.

This is an amazing inspirational story. Please take time to read this book and share it to others.

What a wonderful book to read about an amazing person! I enjoyed every page. My daughter, who is blind, is anxiously awaiting this to come out on audio book!

Beautiful Story! You will get up and cheer! No bitterness, just absolute and contagious DETERMINATION!

Makes you appreciate what have and life in general.

Excellent book. Good read.

Bob is an inspiration!

Beyond excellent and "priceless"!

Such a great, inspirational read. Thank you, Bob Lujano, for being such a wonderful example to us all on how to live life with purpose.

Bob Lujano is the first quadruple amputee I have met. We sat together at a conference in San Diego. As fast acquaintances, Bob went with me to pick up my kids in the parking lot as he was eager to meet them. When they got out of a truck with baggage, Bob threw one bag on his lap then went and opened and held the door open for us. I had the feeling at that time that the independence anchors ran deep within Bob, and I had a lot to learn. Since the time I met Bob and the time I picked up "No Arms, No Legs, No Problem," my children made friends with a young boy who is also a quadruple amputee. I have gone to public parks with our young friend and have seen how people respond to a very visible disability. It is with that context that I find Bob's message the most powerful. Before I read this book, I was at a loss for words of advice to offer. Now, however, I can picture Bob saying "go over there and engage in dialogue. Wage your offense. Answer questions." I know it takes enormous commitment to write an autobiography. But in an area where there is a massive void, this is time well spent. I can't wait to give my copy of this book to my young friend. I can't imagine a more powerful message he could read if I scripted it myself. Since my need is to help someone in Bob's situation, my review is primarily catered to that need. However, I have to say that I learned a lot through reading this book, and I think it would be a meaningful read to anyone.

I know not everyone will get the chance to know Bob Lujano but this book is the best representation of his character. It's not his disabilities that sets him apart from everyone else, it's his faith, joy and zest for life. He sees the world and people around him in a whole different light. I met Bob at Lakeshore at a very depressed time in my life. He helped me to realize that the things I was depressed over were so trivial in the grand scheme of things. This book is emotional, but it's healing. I've laughed and I've cried but it was reminder of the lessons I've learned from Bob. The author Tara Schiro did a tremendous job sharing Bob's story. I just know she was blessed by writing his story. This book is so well written that you cannot put the book down!

I was captivated from the start, and finished this book in just over two days! 'No Arms, No Legs, No Problem' is a compelling story of a boy's traumatic loss of all four limbs at the age of 9; and a dysfunctional family coming together in faith. Author Schiro handles the subject matter with such grace and honesty throughout, bringing her own personal observations to Bob's story. Through her own perspective, representing 'us'... able bodied readers, Schiro allows us inside her thoughts, questions, and even insecurities. Bob's powerful journey to independence, finding love, and a spot on Team USA's Paralympic Rugby team is an absolute page-turner. There is an attention to detail that pulls us into a boy's life in the 1970's, interrupted by an unthinkable and sudden illness that changes his life forever.

On average, I would say a 200+ page book would take me at least week or so to read. I read "No Arms, No Legs, No Problem" in a day and a half. As bedtime approached the first evening I began reading, I kept trying to find a place to stop but could only do so after I found myself having to read the same paragraph about six times because I had over shot my usual bedtime by more than a hour. I was forced to mark my spot and finish the next evening after work. There are many aspects of this book I could comment on but I think the honesty of Bob's faith journey had the greatest impact on me. His journey has peaks and valleys and he shares both. In the end, I was greatly encouraged, challenged and inspired and the fact that Bob has no arms and no legs becomes incidental to the real story of an extraordinary human being. P.S., I am not sure if Bob, Tara or both chose the scripture references that close each chapter but I looked forwarded to closing each chapter and finding out which scripture reference had been chosen because the application to Bob's story and my own life was tremendous! Thank you Bob.

I had the honor of meeting Bob at a Church function in Gadsden, AL. Bob immediately came over to my wife and me and introduced himself and offered up his arm for a handshake. He has a genuine warmth and confidence that was very engaging. I purchased his book and can honestly say that I read it cover to cover in less than a day. It is a riveting account that is inspiring, informative and personally helped me re-establish perspective in my own life. I love how Bob shows grace, denies self pity and continues to live for glorifying God through his message. I would highly recommend this book to anyone.

I just finished reading this book today after hearing Bob on a Christian radio program in Southern California. I was so touched by his story on the radio and when you read it, you can't help but laugh through the tears and feel inspired and encouraged. As I read, many times, I felt myself thinking about what I was thinking about! My knowledge of those with disabilities is so much greater, but even better, I realized that we all have limitations (some not as obvious), and like Bob, we can choose to live a life of grace, purpose and love. He is truly a standard setter for all and my life is richer because of his truth. I now am looking at ways to allow God to redeem those areas in my life which seemed hopeless,- for His glory. Hats off to Bob and Tara. Well done!

What an amazing human being. I first came to know Bob in 1998 during a "Super Sports Saturday" event at the Lakeshore Foundation in Birmingham, Alabama. I was shocked to see him at first! This was the first time I ever saw a quadruple amputee in person. When he came over to introduce himself, I became intrigued by his charismatic personality. Since that day, I've always been excited to know his story. He moved out of his parents' house at the age of 19, learned to drive, at went on to college. He has taught me a lot personally. One of the most exciting things I witnessed was when he picked me up from school for the "After School" program. His ability to drive amazed me. His will to persevere and live life to the fullest is a prime example of why you should NEVER give up! Push forward and achieve, achieve, achieve despite the obstacles set before you.

A true inspirational book that will touch your life forever! Bob guided me and my family to help my nephew in many ways; to live, learn to enjoy life as any other child without disabilities. Introduced my nephew of 6 years old coming from a third world country, who didn't know English, to play sports in wheelchair, to don't stop smiling just because he was born with a major disability; thanks to Bob, his courage to live and enjoy life; my nephew is now a successful Wheelchair basketball player and looks forward for the next day to come as many of us. My admiration for bob is stunning, I hardly recommend to read this book!

Simply put, one of the most amazing books and stories that I have ever read. I could not put it down. Bob's faith and perseverance is unrivaled. I think everyone should read this book and just sit and think about their life! Amazing story and amazing man. I was lucky enough to meet and talk to Bob last evening at Lakeshore Foundation here in Birmingham Alabama. I was star struck(even though I was also about to meet George Bush)! I will never forget the moment of shaking his hand(or what he uses as a hand)! What a man! A MUST READ!!!!!!!!!

I am an avid book reader. This book was the best I have ever read. I read it in two hours, all the while ignoring my family. I couldn't put it down, couldn't wait til the next page. It is very inspirational, but also very real. Bob Lujano is a one of a kind person. Who else but Bob could go through what he has and still continue to thrive, still help other people. God has certainly blessed Bob, and anyone that reads this will say the same, but Bob has blessed many others unconditionally.

An inspirational story from the beginning. Learning the back story of how he became a quad amputee, it boggles my mind the adversity that Bob has overcome to be the person he is today. He had many opportunities to throw in the towel and call it quits, but Bob's FAITH is what sets him apart from those that fail. From overcoming the initial illness, to managing different prosthesis, to participating in the ParaOlympics, and to everyday life tasks, Bob is truly making a difference in the lives that he touches not only at the Lakeshore Foundation in Birmingham, but now across the country thanks to this book. The title is perfect…..No Problem!