Why we made this
We're the parents of Gwendolyn, who was born with fibular hemimelia and apodia. She had amputation surgeries at 9 months old and is now a bilateral below-knee amputee who walks, runs, plays, and keeps us busy.
Adapt Ohio started as a place for us to keep track of things we found along the way: programs Gwen has tried, places our family enjoys, resources that helped, and ideas we want to remember for later. Some are useful now. Others are here for when Gwen is older or when the right time comes.
Our experience is centered on limb differences, but many of the programs, places, and resources here may be helpful to families of children with other disabilities as well. We thought sharing this information might be useful to other families. We're not experts, and this isn't a step-by-step plan. It's simply one family's growing collection.
Explore what we've collected
Start wherever it makes sense for your family today.
First Steps
What to do after a diagnosis or birth. Programs, referrals, and support systems to connect with early.
Sports & Activities
Explore sled hockey, dance, and other adaptive programs we've tried and recommend.
Groups & Community
Support groups, local meetups, and online communities that have helped us stay connected.
Accessible Playgrounds
Our favorite inclusive playgrounds in Central Ohio where every child can feel included.
Camps & Programs
Fun and empowering summer and seasonal camps your child might enjoy.
Travel & Vacations
Tips and insights for visiting theme parks, zoos, and planning accessible family trips.
Movies, TV & Public Figures
Stories on screen, plus athletes and public figures who help kids feel seen.
Toys & Clothing
Find dolls, playsets, and apparel that represent limb differences, so kids can see themselves in what they play with and wear.
Prosthetics & Equipment
Our experiences with different products and providers, what worked, what didn’t, and what we learned.
Care Teams & Providers
Why we chose our current care team and what other medical and prosthetic providers you might consider.
Books for Kids & Parents
Stories that celebrate differences, boost confidence, and help your child feel seen. These are some of the books we've read together and loved.
Resources
Organizations and websites we've found helpful along the way. These cover everything from early childhood services to national groups focused on disability and inclusion.