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Parenting Children with Limb DifferencesSeason 2 Wrap Up & an Exciting AnnouncementThank you to everyone who has listened to the Parenting Children with Limb Differences podcast the last two seasons! We are so grateful to see this community growing and to be a platform where we can bring you real, lived experiences through personal stories. Special thanks this season to Katie and Tommy Dengel, Ryan Haack, Allie Redshaw, Allison Sweet Grant, Katie Mick, Gigi Verrey, Cindy Housner, Mary Leighton, Megan Craft, Lisa DeWeert, Megan Crummert, Maggie Baumer and Carrie Davis. And of course, a big thanks to our husbands, who have shown us vulnerability in sharing their own...2025-04-2805 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesSerendipitous Encounters and an Epic Journey - with Carrie DavisIn the final guest episode of season two, Carrie Davis, VP of Employee and Patient Experience with Hanger Clinic, boldly shares her journey from childhood to adulthood growing up with one hand. She shares with us the story of the evolution of her identity and how she became a two-time national paratriathalon champion. Carrie also shares with us how she became involved with Hanger and the amazing work they are doing there, along with other organizations that are championing movements and challenging legislation for the greater good of amputees and those born with limb difference. Learn more about Hanger...2025-04-2445 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesFinding Purpose and Meaning after Limb Loss as an Adult with Maggie BaumerIn this episode, Maggie Baumer, Leader of Enterprise Patient Advocacy with Hanger Clinic, takes us through her experience as an adult with losing her arm below the elbow after a scary and painful accident. Maggie graciously shares with us the ways in which she navigated her recovery and how her identity evolved to embrace herself as a person with a disability and a disability advocate. Maggie also shares with us how she became involved with Hanger and the amazing work they are doing there, along with other organizations that are championing movements and challenging legislation for the...2025-04-2138 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesCollaborate, Support & Adapt Together - with Moxie AdaptiveThis episode features Moxie Adaptive, an organization focused on creating spaces to connect and empower those with limb differences. We had the pleasure of speaking with two of the founders, Lisa DeWeert and Megan Crummet, who share their own stories about finding their identity and their inspiration for creating Moxie. Learn more about Moxie Adaptive and their mission at: https://moxieadaptive.org/ 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 & Kari: Website: pcwldpodcast.com; Facebook: Parenting Children with...2025-04-1450 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesMission Inclusion: Disability Connects Us All - with Megan CraftIn this episode, we meet with Megan Craft, Speech Language Pathologist and creator of the children's disability book series: Mission Inclusion. Megan shares what inspired her to write this book series, and why mindfulness, kindness, and inclusion are important. She also talks with us about the importance of teaching our kids when they're young about differences and inclusion, so they can carry those lessons through their lifetime. Educating parents and the community is paramount to gain insight and understanding that disability connects us all. Learn more about Megan Craft and Mission Inclusion here: https://mission-inclusion.com/ Thanks for tuning...2025-04-0739 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesInclusion & Accessibility No Matter How You Show Up: With Alexandra RedshawIn this episode, Alexandra (Allie) Redshaw shares her experience of living her life to the fullest, despite losing her hand in a kitchen accident while pregnant with her second child. Allie takes us through the harrowing story of her injury and amputation. She emphatically shares how she believes in inclusion and accessibility for everyone: that every human being, regardless of how they show up or how they are shaped, deserves to be seen, felt and have their needs met. Now, an avid paraclimber and disability advocate, Allie is traveling the world, creating powerful change and impact in third world...2025-03-3153 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesLet No One Sit on the Sidelines: Cindy Housner & GLASAIn this episode, we welcome Cindy Housner, Founder of Great Lakes Adaptive Sports Association (GLASA) into the studio. Learn about the impact this Illinois-based organization is making to support athletes training and competing locally, nationally and internationally, with 20 different sports. We discuss the programs, camps and events they offer as well as the important role families and volunteers play in helping programs like these. 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. To learn more about GLASA, click here: https://glasa...2025-03-2428 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesLet's Talk Paraswimming with Coach KariIn this episode, Kari shares her experiences and insights as she explores the world of paraswimming. From learning about athlete classification to incorporating athletes with disabilities into events, she dives into the details of adaptive sports and the opportunities they create.Discover valuable resources like usparaswimming.org, moveunitedsport.org, and swimangelfish.com to get started with adaptive swimming, and support athletes and families on their journey.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. For questions regarding swimming, contact Kari...2025-03-1742 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesRedefining Possibility: A Conversation with Arm DynamicsIn this episode, we delve into the world of upper limb prosthetics with Mac Lang and Jamison Carroll from Arm Dynamics. We explore their unique approach to patient care, focusing on maximizing function and independence. Learn about the latest advancements in prosthetic technology, the rehabilitation process, and how Arm Dynamics is helping individuals with limb differences live fulfilling lives. Discover how they are truly "Redefining Possibility" for their patients.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. Learn more about...2025-03-1057 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesEducate, Empower, Support: Interview with Camp No Limits Director Mary LeightonIn this episode, we're joined by Mary Leighton, Founder and Executive Director of Camp No Limits and the No Limits Foundation. We explore the inspiring mission of Camp No Limits, which is dedicated to empowering individuals with limb loss and limb differences. Learn about their diverse programs, from summer camps and adaptive opportunities to educational resources and advocacy initiatives. Discover how Camp No Limits is breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive world for people with limb loss or limb differences.Thanks for tuning into the Parenting Children with Limb Differences Podcast. Follow...2025-03-0336 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesCreating Community, Finding Strength: Interview with Katie Dengel at The LimbBo FoundationJoin 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 vital support, from 3D-printed tools and welcoming parent packs to social events and a strong sense of belonging. This episode offers a heartwarming glimpse into the power of community and as Tommy says, "Just Keep...2025-02-2440 minParenting Children with Limb Differences"I am the Cage" - Interview with Allison Sweet GrantToday'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 limb lengthening procedure. This is an episode you don't want to miss!Thanks for tuning into the Parenting Children with Limb Differences Podcast. Follow us, leave a review, and sh...2025-02-1733 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesDifferent Is Awesome: A Conversation with Ryan Haack - Part 2In part two of this two-part interview, Ryan Haack, author ofDifferent 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 discussed.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. Learn more about Ryan Haack by...2025-02-1238 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesDifferent Is Awesome: A Conversation with Ryan Haack - Part 1In 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 Part 2!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. Learn more about Ryan Haack by visiting http://www...2025-02-1036 minParenting Children with Limb Differences"If I Can Do It, You Can Do It" - Interview with Gigi VerreyToday’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 adversity. We enjoyed Gigi's warm personality, sense of humor, and advice for parents and children in the limb difference community and we think you wi...2025-02-0353 minParenting Children with Limb Differences"He's Completely Capable" - Katie & Conor's StoryKatie 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 Podcast. Follow us, leave a review, and share this episode with your friends and family. Connect with Ali & Kari:Website: pcwldpodcast.comFacebook: Parenting Children...2025-01-2739 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesTHE DADS EPISODEOur 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, and share this episode with your friends and family.Connect with Ali & Kari:Website: pcwldpodcast.comFacebook: Parenting Children With Limb DifferencesInstagram: PCWLD Podcast2025-01-201h 00Parenting Children with Limb DifferencesPCWLD Season 2 Sneak PeakThis 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 that focuses on limb difference ability and resiliency. Stay tuned!Thanks for tuning into the Parenting Children with Limb Differences Podcast. Follow us, leave a review, and share this episode with your friends and fa...2025-01-1308 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesBeyond the Diagnosis: A Pediatric Nurse's Journey Through Motherhood and Advocacy for Limb Differences - Part 2In 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 a child with a limb difference (whether at scan or at birth) with resources, including home visits. Emma also acknowledges and addresses the grief associated with finding out she would have a different baby then...2024-10-3142 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesBeyond the Diagnosis: A Pediatric Nurse's Journey Through Motherhood and Advocacy for Limb Differences - Part 1Wrapping 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. Emma shares how learning of Miles’ limb difference and researching led her to connect with Reach and LimbBo. She also shares how her journey with motherho...2024-10-2844 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesSmiles for Miles & Dimples for Days – Rachel & Miles’ StoryIn 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 her hopes for Miles' future. DISCLAIMER– there is some descriptive content involving Rachel's traumatic birth story that may be difficult for some listeners to hear. Thanks for tuning...2024-10-2148 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesFall School Check-In - How Mack and Tyler are DoingIn 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 & Kari:Website: pcwldpodcast.comFacebook: Parenting Children With Limb DifferencesInstagram: PCWLD PodcastEmail: pcwldpodcast@gmail.com2024-10-1423 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesThe Adaptive Tools We Are Using Right NowIn 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 Podcast. Follow us, leave a review, and share this episode with your friends and family. Connect with Ali & Kari:Website: pcwldpodcast.com...2024-10-0719 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesSarah's Story: A Personal Journey of Growth, Love, and LiamIn 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 inspired her to become a teacher, and the importance of community. Sarah also shares how her life experiences have helped her to show up and advocate in an...2024-09-3055 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesBeyond Limits: The Power of Camp No LimitsIn 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 of Camp No Limits? As Kari describes, there are scholarships and fundraising opportunities available to make Camp No Limits more accessible and affordable! Thanks for tuning into the Parent...2024-09-2331 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesInterview with Laura Clubok, Pediatric Occupational Therapist - Part 2This 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 participates with other organizations including, but not limited to Hands to Love and Lucky Fin, to educate the community on the best ways to support individuals with limb differences. Additionally, Laura expresses how healing it has been for...2024-09-1939 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesInterview with Laura Clubok, Pediatric Occupational Therapist - Part 1In 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 career as a Pediatric Occupational Therapist and her passion for helping children with limb differences grow up to be healthy, well-adjusted individuals. Laura offers her expert in...2024-09-1638 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesKrystal's Story: Early Parenting Experiences with BrooklynnIn 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 heartfelt episode. 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 & Kari:2024-09-0944 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesRose's Story: Loving Life With AveryIn 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're a couple of moms who are recording remotely from our homes. Throughout this episode, you may hear children and other noises in the background. We've done our best to edit out these background noises but there may still...2024-09-0251 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesNavigating & Advocating: Early Intervention, IEPs, and 504 PlansIn 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, and share this episode with your friends and family. Connect with Ali & Kari:Website: pcwldpodcast.comFacebook: Parenting Children With Limb Differences2024-08-2633 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesBack to School SpecialIn 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 into the Parenting Children with Limb Differences Podcast. Follow us, leave a review, and share this episode with your friends and family. 2024-08-1915 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesTarah’s Story: Motherhood and MelIn 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 education teacher, Tarah offers a unique perspective and provides us with her thoughts about resources, advocacy and inclusion. Thanks for tuning into the Parenting Children with Limb Differences Podcast...2024-08-1250 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesKari's Story: Mackenzie's Mighty BeginningsIn 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 that has shaped their family's story.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. ...2024-08-0544 minParenting Children with Limb DifferencesAli's Story: Navigating Tyler's Arrival & NeedsIn 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 the past few years. Join us, as we discuss the challenges and triumphs that have led to Ali's family's beautiful and unique life with Tyler.Thanks for tuning into the Parenting Children with Limb Differences Podcast...2024-08-0530 min
Parenting Children with Limb DifferencesStronger Together: Parenting Children with Limb DifferencesThis 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 Children with Limb Differences Podcast. Follow us, leave a review, and share this episode with your friends and family. Connect with Ali & Kari:2024-08-0403 min