A Helping Hand For Louise

Hello! As lots of my friends and family know, but some of you who've met me may not realise, I was born missing my left forearm and hand. I usually wear a cosmetic prosthetic arm, that does such a good job of looking 'normal’, that often people don't realise I have one arm. The type of prosthetic arm that I've worn for so long doesn't have any functionality, and I've reached a point where I'm tired of the limitations this poses, as well as feeling self conscious about it. 

I'm hoping to raise funds for a bionic arm, which will allow me to do things like ride a bike (relatively) safely, as well as day to day tasks that people take for granted a bit more easily. I'm also planning on training to become a Primary School teacher next year, so having a functioning prosthetic arm will be a huge help in the classroom.

A company called Ottobock manufacture the 'Be Bionic' hand, which has multiple grip patterns and is one of the most intuitive and precise bionic hands to use. It costs about £25,000 to produce, and unfortunately isn't available on the NHS at the moment, but I'm hoping with some help from my friends and family, I'll be able to raise enough to get one privately. I've already pledged £1000 towards my target, and will add to that as often as I can.


 In raising funds for this arm, I wanted to challenge myself to do something that I wouldn't have had the confidence to do in the past; so on 7th September, I took on  Tough Mudder with the support of 11 of my friends and family. My Bionic Army helped me raise lots of money towards my target, by joining me in running 10 muddy miles, scrambling up, over, under and through 25 obstacles, jumping into ice cold water and finishing off with electric shock therapy! 


There have also been lots of other fundraising activities, including a David Bowie indie disco night, a nail painting and cake sale at Beauty by Jen, a raffle and a tombola. People have also individually raised money either through work or sponsored sporting events. A big thank you to everyone who’s been involved in different ways, there’ll be more fundraising activities to come, but if you have any ideas that might help, please get in touch! 



It's definitely been a struggle to overcome some of the insecurities, not to mention the physical challenges of being born without a left arm. Once I've reached my goal, I want to continue to champion charities that support people with limb differences, and help to raise money for people in similar situations. Any amount you can give to help me along this journey will be appreciated so much. Thank you!