Every October, Skills for Life brings together an extraordinary community of individuals living without both arms (and, for many, all four limbs) for three days of learning, connection, and support. For several years, Ryan Spill, CP/L has been honored to be part of this event—attending alongside one of his patients so they can experience, firsthand, the strength and encouragement that comes from being surrounded by others who truly understand the day-to-day challenges of bilateral upper extremity limb loss or difference.
Last year, Ryan attended Skills for Life 7 (SFL7) in Houston, Texas, held October 16–18, 2025. He is honored to participate in the workshop, bring a patient, and connect with the community. Ryan also delivered a presentation highlighting his patient, Tom, sharing tips and tricks learned from a bilateral transhumeral prosthesis user for 50 years.
What Skills for Life Is
Skills for Life is a three-day, life-changing workshop created specifically for people with limb differences. It’s designed to empower participants with practical strategies for independence while building a supportive network of peers, clinicians, and experts.
What the Workshop Offers
In-person community
Participants build camaraderie and friendships that are difficult to replicate online. The event creates space for people to share experiences, ask honest questions, and learn from one another in real time.
Expert-led sessions
Education is delivered by a team that may include people with limb loss/difference, occupational therapists, prosthetists, and physicians—combining lived experience with clinical expertise.
Practical, real-world skills
Workshops focus on daily independence, including learning adaptive techniques for tools and equipment, clothing strategies, and “tips and hacks” that make everyday activities more manageable.
Support and resources
Beyond skills training, Skills for Life emphasizes emotional support, caregiver guidance, and connections to ongoing resources that help participants thrive long after the event ends.
Skills for Life 7 at a Glance
SFL7 was offered free for individuals living without both arms (or more), with sponsors helping to make the event accessible to those who need it most.
Event: Skills for Life 7
Dates: October 16–18, 2025
Location: Houston, Texas
SFL7 Impact by the Numbers
Event statistics shared by Shawn Johnson, OTR, Founder/Executive Director, Enhancing Skills for Life, reflect the reach and growth of this workshop:
- 114 people living without both hands or all four limbs attended
- 11 countries represented (Australia, Japan, Jordan, Italy, Ireland, Ukraine, Canada, United Kingdom, Mexico, Sweden, United States)
- 70 attendees were quadruple limb difference (65%)
- 75 first-time attendees with limb difference
- 120 family members/caregivers attended
- 500% growth in pediatric attendance (under 17 years old)
- 34 attendees born with limb differences
- 80 attendees experienced trauma/limb loss (accident or sepsis)
- 405 total attendees
Why This Matters to RJR
At RJR, we believe clinical care is strongest when it is paired with community, education, and real-world confidence. Skills for Life is a powerful reminder that independence is built through shared knowledge, encouragement, and access to the right resources. Ryan’s ongoing involvement reflects a commitment not only to prosthetic care, but also to helping patients find connection, support, and practical tools that can change daily life.
SFL7 had it all—friendship, education, recreation, resources, caregiver advice, demonstrations, and a community that continues to grow. We’re proud of Ryan’s continued participation and grateful for organizations like Enhancing Skills for Life that make gatherings like this possible.
Please like the organization’s Facebook page for great resources, www.facebook.com/enhancingskillsforlife.