Parenting Children with Limb Differences

Join us for our conversation with Katie Dengel and her son, Tommy, the driving force behind the creation of the LimbBo Foundation which operates out of the UK, but has a global reach. Hear how Tommy's arrival into her family's world inspired Katie and her husband, Adam, to create a supportive community for children with limb differences and their families. Discover how LimbBo provides vita...

Today's interview features Allison Sweet Grant! Allison is a writer published in the New York Times and The Atlantic; she holds dual master’s degrees from the University of Michigan. She is the author of I am the Cage, which was February 18th, 2025. I Am The Cage is a beautiful coming-of-age story that draws from the author's own adolescent experiences in the medical system undergoing a li...

In part two of this two-part interview, Ryan Haack, author of Different is Awesome! , discusses his role models, the advocacy organizations he is passionate about, and the connections he has formed across the U.S. Part two is especially raw as Ryan shares about the loss of his father. Disclaimer: we are inserting a trigger warning here, as a family member's death by suicide is briefly discusse...

In part one of this two-part interview, Ryan Haack, author of Different is Awesome! , shares the strength he's found in family, community, activities, and most of all, through self-reflection and sharing his emotions! Ryan is a motivational speaker, limb difference advocate, parent, and humanitarian. He is also an adult who was born with an upper limb difference! Don't forget to check out...

Today’s Interview is with Gigi Verrey, Vice President of a local wealth management company here in Illinois and is the Creator and she is the creator of Very Smart Ideas, LLC. Gigi is also an adult who was born with an upper limb difference - and she is an inspiration! We want to share her story with you, including the challenges she has faced, her successes, and the ways in which she has overcome...

Katie Mick shares her journey from pregnancy, birth and beyond. Katie dives into how she has learned to help support her son, Conor by tapping into her own personal and professional knowledge, training and experiences. She also explains what resources have been most helpful for her as she has navigated this unexpected pathway. Thanks for tuning into the Parenting Children with Limb Differences Pod...

Our season 2 kicks off with our interview with Sean and Brian, our partners, who are raising children with limb differences alongside us. In this episode, we hear their perspectives on finding out about our child's limb difference, emotional processing, research, partnership and parenting. Thanks for tuning into the Parenting Children with Limb Differences Podcast. Follow us, leave a review, a...

This mini episode offers a sneak peak into Season 2 of Parenting Children with Limb Differences. It highlights special guests, upcoming events in the community, and other resources we are excited about for this season. Get ready for more inspiring stories, laughter (and maybe a few tears), and support, as we challenge the world’s perception of limb difference limitations by offering a perspective...

In part 2, Emma discusses the importance of having open dialogue with our children about their limb difference and working with them to develop the language to effectively and confidently manage questions about their limb difference (or for our typical children, to discuss their sibling’s limb difference). She also shares her aspirations in connecting every family who finds out that they will have...

Wrapping up season 1 of PCLWD, this is a two-part, heartfelt interview with Emma Gilpin.  Emma is a Pediatric Nurse and mom of two, located in the U.K.  Her eldest child, Miles, was born with an upper limb difference.  Emma is also a major limb difference advocate who is involved with both Reach and LimbBo, two fantastic organizations in the UK.  In part one, we learn more about Emma and Miles. Em...

In this episode, Rachel shares with us her personal journeyfrom the challenges of conception and Miles’ traumatic birth. She also shares with us how she learned about Miles' limb differences (with a diagnosis of amniotic band syndrome), and walks us through Miles’ development and surgeries. Rachel identifies the resources that have been helpful and offers advice for other parents, as well as h...

In this episode, Kari and Ali share some updates on how school is going for Mack and Tyler. They share the challenges of adjusting to new routines, positive social-emotional experiences, 504 evaluation discussions, and more. Thanks for tuning into the Parenting Children with Limb Differences Podcast. Follow us, leave a review, and share this episode with your friends and family.   Connect with Ali...

In this episode, Kari and Ali dive in and discuss the adaptive tools they are currently using to support their children with upper limb differences. They share ideas around adaptive equipment, adaptive clothing, and advocate for the need for more businesses to create more adaptive tools in support of the limb difference community. Thanks for tuning into the Parenting Children with Limb Differences...

In this episode, Sarah takes us on a journey through her life, sharing her unique story as BOTH an adult with a limb difference and the parent of a child with a limb difference. Sarah describes some of the challenges of growing up with a limb difference and how her limb difference has shaped her into the (beautiful) human she is today. She talks about finding herself, falling in love, what inspire...

In this episode, Kari breaks down the Camp No Limits Lake Forest experience. From the breakout sessions, to the amazing vendors with adaptive equipment, Kari delves into why Camp No Limits is a must-attend event for the  Limb Difference/Limb Loss community!  The opportunity to connect with other families navigating similar journeys makes this entire experience invaluable!  Worried about the cost o...

This episode is the SECOND part of our two-part interview with Laura Clubok- Pediatric Occupational Therapist from Columbus Ohio. Part two is packed with tips on how parents can support their children with limb differences by helping them to build strong bodies and minds, including how to prevent overuse syndrome. Laura shares her enjoyment in collaborating with other professionals and actively pa...

In this two-part special, we interview Laura Clubok- Pediatric Occupational Therapist from Columbus Ohio. Laura is the creator of On the Other Hand Therapy (and On the Other Hand I Have a Thumb). She offers a unique perspective, as she is also an adult who was born with a hand difference. Part 1 dives into Laura’s childhood and growing up with a limb difference. It also explores her pursuit of her...

In this episode, Krystal Pelletier shares with us her journey through fertility treatment, pregnancy, the shock of learning about Brooklynn's limb difference at birth, the emotional battle Krystal went through postpartum, and the supports she currently has in place for Brooklynn (and herself) today. Krystal shares her challenges and triumphs with warmth, humor, hope and love throughout this he...

In this episode, Rose Andrews shares with us how despite facing adversity throughout her life (including being surprised at her daughter's birth with her daughter's upper limb difference and entering postpartum during a worldwide pandemic), she has been able to reframe her life into a positive perspective, practice gratitude, and lean on resources to navigate challenges. Please note: we&#3...

In this educational episode, Tarah Behren returns and talks with Kari and Ali about experiences with the Early Intervention program, the transition to the Early Childhood program through the school district, IEPs and 504 plans. Tune in for helpful tips on navigating and advocating for your child! Thanks for tuning into the Parenting Children with Limb Differences Podcast. Follow us, leave a review...

In this episode, Kari and I discuss all things back to school. From handing out introduction flyers to teachers and staff, to making sure our littles have what they need to be prepared for the year ahead, Kari and Ali share their ideas and hopes for a great start to the new school year. They also discuss their admiration for the athletes competing in the upcoming Paralympics. Thanks for tuning int...

In this episode, Tarah Behren shares her strength, courage, and heart with us as she reflects on the last several years. Tarah explains the details of learning about her daughter Melanie’s limb difference at the 20-week anatomy scan, all of the emotions that came with that, and all of the unexpected and wonderful things being Mel’s (and Kelsey’s) mom has gifted her. Additionally, as a special educ...

In this episode, Kari shares her personal journey of parenting a child with a limb difference. From the unexpected moment of discovering Mackenzie’s limb difference leading to a chaotic birth experience to navigating the challenges and joys of the first five years, Kari offers raw and honest insights. Join us as we explore the emotional rollercoaster, the lessons learned, and the unwavering love t...

In this episode, we learn about Ali's personal journey before and after Tyler's arrival. Together, we explore the complexities of Ali's experiences; from fertility issues, to the excitement of pregnancy with Tyler, to the shocking news about Tyler's limb difference, and beyond. Ali offers a deep level of openness and compassion as she shares her thoughts and life with Tyler over th...

This episode briefly explains our "why" for this podcast. Our primary reason for the Parenting Children with Limb Differences (PCWLD) podcast is to CONNECT with parents - especially moms - who have children with a limb difference. We hope that you can find some comfort, validation, empathy and community here. We want you to know - YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Thanks for tuning into the Parenting C...