LSU grad transforms his disability into a game

James Robert III was born with no fingers on his left hand, and he is using his disability to fuel a passion to help others like him.

The recent Louisiana State University graduate is pursuing a master's degree in prosthetics and healthcare administration while serving as chief print technologist at Make Good NOLA, a New Orleans-based organization that creates custom prosthetics for children with limb differences.

When Robert was 2 years old, he underwent a toe-to-hand transfer surgery to improve functionality in his left hand. The procedure, however, didn't work as hoped. Still, he went on to play multiple sports, learn to play the trumpet and develop skills in archery and marksmanship, all with just the five fingers on his right hand.

"Putting a positive spin on it, it was hard.