Born For This Stories

Dylan's Story: A Mother's Journey Through Limb Difference and Self-Compassion


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Season 2 begins with a story that will stay with you.

Today, Johanna and Peter sit down with Dylan, a first-time mom whose daughter, Freya, was born with a congenital limb difference called longitudinal radial deficiencyβ€”a rare condition where the forearm bones don't fully develop. From the shock of her diagnosis at the 20-week ultrasound to finding healing through therapy, family support, and the Lucky Fin Project, Dylan's story is one of raw honesty, fierce love, and learning to give yourself grace in the midst of uncertainty.

Dylan shares the moment a doctor called her baby's missing forearm "a cosmetic issue", the heartbreak of watching her newborn strapped to a medical table, and the relief of discovering she wasn't alone. Through every twist, Dylan's voice reminds parents everywhere that compassion for ourselves and for one another is an essential part of the healing process.

In this episode:

  • The day Dylan learned her baby would be born without her left forearm

  • The frustration of medical providers minimizing this life-changing news

  • The power of family support, therapy, and community

  • How the Lucky Fin Project and Camp No Limits changed their outlook

  • Why "self-compassion" and "grace" became Dylan's mantras

  • Building local connection for families navigating limb differences

Resources from this episode:

  • Visit the Lucky Fin Project at their website, luckyfinproject.org, and on Facebook and Instagram @lucky_fin_project
  • Visit Camp No Limits at their website, nolimitsfoundation.org, on Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Instagram @campnolimits

πŸ‘£ Learn more or share your story at bornforthestories.com πŸ’› Follow us on Instagram @bornforthestories πŸ™ Subscribe, rate, and share to help other families feel seen and supported

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Born For This StoriesBy Dr. Johanna & Peter Hartley