Surgery with an upper limb difference is something that gets talked about a lot. Some people need it for medical reasons, others may be thinking about it for cosmetic reasons.

Megan talks to Leah, who has so far had 57 operations on her upper limb difference at the age of 23. From hospital rooms to school corridors, she shares how constant procedures shaped her confidence, independence, and identity.

This conversation focuses on the emotional side of surgeries (the isolation, frustration, and “why me?” moments), as well as the physical grind of recovery and adapting, including having to relearn life as a right-handed person. Leah also opens up about navigating a medical system that can feel overwhelming and impersonal, especially as you transition from being a kid to advocating for yourself as an adult.

She talks frankly about c ...