Bullying can leave marks that last long after childhood ends. In this episode of Offhand, Leah speaks to Megan and shares her experience of growing up with an upper limb difference, navigating school life, and dealing with the comments, questions, and cruelty that made her feel different.

But this conversation isn't only about bullying. It's about what happens afterwards.

Leah reflects on the lasting impact those experiences had on her, and it’s not all about negativity. She talks openly about the support that mattered most, the people who stood by her, and how resilience often develops in ways we don't recognise until much later.

Whether you've experienced bullying yourself, supported someone through it, or wondered how to respond when your upper limb difference becomes a target, this episode offers both practical insight and heartfelt reflection. It's a conversation about pain, recovery, belonging, and learning to embrace who you are without minimising what you've been through.

LINKS:

Mentorship: https://www.reach.org.uk/18-25-retreat-mentorship-programme

My Story – A book for kids about upper limb difference: https://www.reach.org.uk/resources/my-story-helping-explain-limb-difference

Want to talk to us? Leave a comment or find us on socials @reachcharityuk

Join us at the Reach Annual Family Weekend! https://www.reach.org.uk/events/annual-family-weekend-2026-23rd-25th-october-2026

Join up for the Reach Triathlon! https://www.reach.org.uk/the-reach-triathlon

With thanks to the National Lottery Community Fund for supporting the development of the Offhand Podcast

Leah’s views and experiences are her own and do not reflect those of Reach Charity