Even though an explosion during the Vietnam War took both of 62-year-old Eugene Robert’s legs, it left his faith and dreams intact.

Roberts has been on a mission to run across America on prosthetic limbs since April 2007. He hopes to show others how God inspires courage and helps overcome challenges. Roberts recently passed through the Wilmington area on his journey near the beginning of March.

“I’ve loved running since I was a kid,” Roberts said. “I saw a man named Terry Fox running across Canada for Cancer and I thought ‘I can do that for Jesus’ and the rest is history.”

“He first came to us in late June of 2007,” said Real Life Prosthetics Technician William Coleman. “We basically had two weeks to meet his [prosthetic limb] needs and get him on the road for his run.”

“It normally takes 6-8 weeks to really fit an amputee with prosthetic legs just for walking,” added Real Life Prosthetics President Jonas Seeberg. “Adding running and high impact might as well double that time. I literally thought it would be a miracle if we accomplished it.”

Sure enough, two weeks after Eugene’s visit, molds were structured, test runs were made, diagnostics were run, and both Coleman and Seeberg were beside themselves.

“It’s unprecedented,” Seeberg said. “I believe a lot of it has to do with his faith. I’d have to say God’s hands really are in this because of what I’ve seen unfold and the odds he’s overcome.”

Expending four times the energy that an able bodied individual expends by running, Roberts’ limbs were made specifically for this long distance activity.

Features were added to the bottom of the limbs such as shock absorbing materials similar to the soles of a shoe as well as tire tread to facilitate a longer period of wear. The limbs were also made to allow for energy return as Roberts hits the ground or leans forward. This way, he can maintain a steady pace without burning out.

Real Life Prosthetics have been facilitating Robert during his run as many risks are involved. They have delivered him new components of the limbs and also replaced them several times before they weakened.

“There’s a toll to be taken on his body,” Coleman said. “The fit [of the prosthetics] can change on a daily basis depending on diet, weight loss and weather.”

As his body goes through fluid losses, Roberts’ legs shrink and as he drops deeper into the sockets of the limbs, it becomes uncomfortable.

“It’s been a great mental challenge to get out here and run every day,” Roberts said. “It’s been a real struggle with pain and even though you can have the legs fitting perfectly, it’s still hard work.”

No matter how the prosthetic limbs may inhibit Roberts, he perseveres.

“I’ve only had one opposition who said something negative to me in 3,000 miles,” said Roberts. “Everyone else has been positive and encouraging and that really makes my heart rejoice and encourages my faith in Christ.”

“A lot of this is mental,” Coleman added. “A guy can run on sticks if he’s got the fortitude to do so. We’re just grateful to have the opportunity to be able to work with a man like him.”

“He’s helped us tremendously in the prosthetics field,” Seeberg said. “I’ve worked with many runners but he has by far surpassed them all. Through him, I’m learning how to design the ultimate running prosthetic device.”

When Roberts finishes his run, he plans to work with disabled and wounded veterans, teaching and encouraging them to follow in his footsteps.

“I was inspired by Terry Fox, so I hope to inspire handicapped and able-bodied individuals to go for their dreams,” Roberts said.

Roberts will finish his run April 4 in Baltimore, where a local hospital will throw him a homecoming celebration.

“When he finishes, I predict he will have run 3,700 miles, which is 5,270,000 steps running from California to Baltimore,” Seeberg said.

“If you put mind to something, you can accomplish anything,” said Roberts.