Personal stories

Rafy's a one-handed superhero!

Seb is an adventurous and friendly seven-year old boy and is making his way as an increasingly independent amputee.

Arav was born with limb differences affecting all four of his limbs, something that wasn’t discovered until after his birth.

Evidence for upper limb prosthesis prescription, and how prosthetists and occupational therapists collaborate to achieve the best outcomes for children who do or don’t use a prosthesis.

Dr Sasaka Bandaranayake discusses the multitude of individualised factors to consider when deciding whether an upper limb prosthesis will suit and be accepted by a child.

Trent explains how peer support helped him to come to the decision to have a below-knee amputation when he was 16. Trent’s amputation has given him a new lease on life, and an enduring relationship with his ‘amputee peer’

William lost his leg in an accident when he was two and half. His parents, Sally and David, talk about how William has flourished over the last few years by taking part in events that allow him to connect with amputees of all ages.

Ava talks about the love she has for her big sister Sienna, who was born with upper limb differences, and the charitable ways she is raising community awareness of diversity and Limbs 4 Life.

Narelle and Shaun share the story of their daughter Charlotte who was born with an upper limb difference. They talk about Charlotte’s sense of determination and willingness to learn new skills - her own way.

Deb shares her experiences of being a mother in the ‘70s when access to limb difference information and support was limited.

This charity works to building inclusive play spaces, where children can play side-by-side regardless of ability.

A message to other children with a limb difference that going to school is great and to always have a go.

Dr Gemma Tatangelo discusses children’s body image and ways in which resilience can be built in those who live with limb difference.

After a childhood accident Jason Honeychurch spent 6 painful years trying to save his leg. He tells us about his important decision to become an amputee.

When Brian Carminati began playing wheelchair basketball he found health and fitness, self-confidence and a new direction.

Professional stuntman and amputee Chris Anderson talks about his workplace accident and why TV shows with dangerous stunts warn you ‘don’t try this at home’.

Born with a congenital upper limb difference, Kylie Franson has built a career as an educator who talks about life with a physical disability.

Dad Justin talks about his experience advocating for his son Rohan to get the right diagnosis, support and outcomes.

Kate is mum to Izabella, who has born with an hand limb difference. She reveals how they have embraced her difference.

Alex is a sporty, funny boy who has adjusted well to his congenital lower limb differences. Read this article about Alex and his family.

Lachie lives with a congenital arm limb difference. Read this news article about him, and the limitless potential his family sees in him.

Knox, who lives with an arm limb difference, shone for his soccer skills in a TV ad that celebrated difference.

Knox’s mum Kate shares their story of his accident, the difficult decision to amputate, his prosthesis and ongoing care.

Boxer, sportsman and demon dancer, Ben talks about growing up with a limb difference, family support and advances in prosthetic technologies.

Melbourne photographer Zaharoula Harris talks about how she started taking award-winning images of children with limb differences.

From tying shoelaces to competing as an elite cyclist – Ben Swain reveals his perseverance overcoming the challenges of congenital limb differences affecting his hands and one foot.

Parents Jen and Peter share their ideas about giving son Harry a childhood like any other, as well as helpful books and blogs.

Jake Widjaya wants to share with families his short film about living with a hand limb difference.

Shane is a world-class golfer and a lower limb amputee. As a prosthesis wearer and a prosthetic technician he shares his insights into the industry.

People who know Gemma don't offer to help until asked – she is determined not to be limited by her arm limb difference.

Lucas’ mum Maria talks about coming to terms with his congenital lower limb difference as it is just a small part of him.

Mum Ruth describes how she created a storybook to help talk to the other kinder kids about her son Victor’s prosthetic leg.

Keiren lost a leg in an accident. His mum Peta talks about staying strong as a parent and his motto of ‘don’t become the disability’.

Claudia Di Guglielmo talks about living with and helping her brother Lucas, who has a lower limb difference.

Josh Thornton talks about his life with congenital upper limb differences, his love of sport and finding lawn bowls as the competitive sport for him.

Athlete, advocate and amputee, Sarah talks about her achievements on and off the sporting field.

Col likes colourful prosthetic legs. His current leg was signed by his heroes the day he met his favourite AFL team.

Jessica Fraser feels lucky to have a little hand. She shares tips for explaining a difference at school, getting dressed and using a keyboard.

Gary Johnston is a person with a limb difference and an amputee. He talks about his lucky life and the importance of being who you are.

Paul Byers lost an arm as a child. He says overcoming a limb loss is easy compared to tackling people’s perception of what he can do.

Thalidomide survivor Geoff Adams-Spink is part of the global group lobbying governments to gain recognition for all forms of congenital limb difference.

Parents Shane and Brooke talk about daughter Milla’s lower limb difference, her determination and finding support from Facebook groups.

Lucas remembers taking his first steps, shares tips for talking about his limb difference and his plans to become a prosthetist.