We are the cause of our baby's armless birth.

When Lindi and Shane Martin welcomed their son Hutt into the world last year, they were overjoyed. But, shocked to discover that Hutt was born without any arms, they soon learned he had thrombocytopenia absent radius syndrome (TAR) – an extremely rare condition that only affects one in 250,000 children. Hutt was also born with bilateral club feet and allergies to milk protein and soy, which can cause gastrointestinal bleeds.

The Martins had no idea that Hutt's condition was genetic – caused by both parents missing a tiny piece of a certain chromosome. This revelation left Lindi feeling 'guilty', as if her 'body betrayed' their son. "I feel so guilty because I’m the reason he has the condition, these struggles, this difficult life," she said. "Deep down, I will always feel guilt, because I feel like my body betrayed him. Life isn’t easy but knowing he will deal with this for life, just breaks my heart as his mum."

Despite the difficulties and heartbreak the Martins have faced, they are determined to give their son all the tools, resources, and help he needs to live a normal life as possible. Lindi said, "We want him to be happy and know that he can do anything he sets his mind to, and we will help guide him to make any of his dreams come true. I know Hutt has the greatest purpose in life – I don’t know exactly what that purpose is, but I know he was meant to do incredible things in life and no matter what, we are so unbelievably proud of him."

The Martins also have to deal with people's reactions to Hutt's condition. Lindi said, "There are amazing supportive people in the world, but this world is also so cruel. Knowing he will probably be talked about, made fun of and picked on his whole life – it crushes me. Mean comments are something we will always deal with. I more so try to educate and respond with how amazing he is and that his disability doesn’t define him."

Hutt is a blessing to the Martin family, and despite the challenges they face, the Martins are determined to give him the best life possible. "Hutt is so loved and such a blessing to our family," Lindi said.

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