Embracing Limb Loss and Building Confidence: Advice to Your Younger Self

As we continue to recognize Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month (LLLDAM), we explore how living with limb loss or limb difference is a unique journey filled with challenges, growth, and moments of self-discovery. From setting meaningful goals to overcoming obstacles and building supportive communities, each step forward is a triumph worth celebrating.

We’ve gathered some valuable insight from those living with limb loss and limb difference who share their wisdom on embracing challenges, finding support, and offering advice to their younger selves. 

Advice for Your Younger Self

• Lean Into Your Support System:  Seventeen-year-old Lily reminds us to find strength in our family and friends. She shares, “Remember that your family and friends are supporting you, there to pick you up when you feel down, always clapping the loudest to support you.” 

• Allow Yourself to Grow Through Struggles:  Maja shares, “Don’t give up. Growing up, there are times it may feel like a struggle, or you may feel lost. Give yourself permission to experience those times, it is part of growth. Learn from the struggles and don’t give up on yourself or your dreams. The struggles will build resilience and strength, helping you to achieve your goals. Believe in yourself, and it will not be a matter of if you achieve your goals, but when you achieve them.” 

• Be Patient and Persistent:  Marina reflects, “When you are younger, living with limb loss or limb difference can feel hard. Lean into your support system and remind yourself that you can do this. Don’t listen to people who limit you or tell you that you can’t do something. Be patient with yourself. You may experience trial and error, but you will get to where your goals take you, even if the path looks different than you originally thought.” 

• Start Small and Build Confidence:  Hanger Clinic Vice President and amputee Steve Miller, CPO, suggests, “Start small, set goals that are personal to you, and focus on taking small steps one at a time toward your goal. Find a support system that will build your confidence. Surround yourself with people who bring you up rather than down.” 

• Let Go of the Fear of Being Observed:  Clinic Manager and amputee Jason Wening, CPO, shares, “People are not paying as much attention to you as you think. My grandmother used to say, ‘Walk into spaces like you own them.’ This doesn’t mean you need to put your limb loss or limb difference on display, just know that people will observe it, make note of it, and likely continue with their day. It’s not as obvious to the world as it is to you.” 

Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Growth

• Accept Yourself and Keep Moving Forward:  Lily encourages, “It’s okay to look different in society and to fall—whether it’s tripping or getting off track from your dreams. Just pick yourself up and keep going because you are amazing and powerful.” 

• Communicate and Stay Organized:  Marina advises, “Growing up, you may face challenges like balancing appointments and schoolwork, adapting to new prostheses, and transitioning to insurance. Communicate with those around you—teachers, parents, clinicians, and friends. They are there to support you.” 

• Prepare for Surprises:  Steve Miller adds, “Every day as an amputee brings surprises. Activities may turn out to be tougher than expected, like a big trip or hiking in the mountains. Prepare in advance and have the right tools to help you overcome challenges.”

Finding Community and Support

• Join Camps and Events:  Lily shares, “I found community through sports and Camp No Limits. Meeting others like yourself helps you share tips and wisdom, and you can always reach out to them even after camps and events.” Marina encourages, “Discover your community and attend events like EmpowerFest, BAKA, and Angel City Games. Get out there, meet people who relate to you, learn from each other, and have fun.”

• Embrace Shared Experiences:  Maja says, “Hanger Clinic has an interconnected community. When you see others with limb loss, you know they understand your experiences. It’s a community that learns and grows together.” 

• Surround Yourself with Positivity:  Steve Miller advises, “Feeling understood and supported is essential. Find people who lift you up and push you forward. Events like EmpowerFest, Camp No Limits, and Endeavor Games can help you connect and grow. Online resources can also be a great opportunity for finding tips and support.” 

• Find Your Anchor:  Jason reflects, “For me, being an athlete and swimmer gave me a strong community. It’s about being around people with a positive outlook for the future. Share tips, try new activities, and live the future you envision—not just imagine it.”