He Lost Both Arms in a Farm Accident at Just 10 Years Old, But Andy Detwiler Learned to Farm 1,300 Acres Using Only His Feet

• 2:58 pm August 21, 2026
• Yashvi

Andy Detwiler lost both arms in a grain auger accident as a child, but he refused to let it stop him. He learned to farm, drive, repair equipment, and share his remarkable life with millions online.

A Farm Accident Changed His Life

On July 18, 1972, Andy Detwiler fell into a grain auger while helping his grandfather on the family farm and lost both arms. Despite the life-changing accident, he learned to do everyday tasks using his feet, including eating, writing, driving tractors and trucks, and repairing farm equipment.

He Became a Farmer and Inspired Millions

Andy went on to farm about 1,300 acres of corn and soybeans, using his feet to do work that many people thought would be impossible. In November 2018, he began sharing his story through his “Harmless Farmer” YouTube channel. The channel eventually gained more than 137,000 subscribers and over 47 million views.

His Community Made Sure He Would Be Remembered

Andy passed away in 2022 at age 52, but his story continued to inspire the people who knew him. Friends and family, led by fellow farmer Paul Kari, raised money for a bronze memorial created by sculptor Mike Major. Unveiled in 2024 on the south edge of West Liberty, Ohio, the statue shows Andy barefoot with one foot raised, ready to work—a lasting tribute to the farmer who refused to let his disability define him.