Amputee Santa Jim George, center, celebrated the holidays Dec. 14 at the Amputee Center in Parkersburg with Tammy Carpenter and Autumn the dog, left, and Lilith Lang, right. (Photo Provided)

PARKERSBURG — The Amputee Center in Parkersburg held a special holiday program earlier this month to celebrate the Christmas season.

The Amputee Santa program was held Dec. 14 at the center at 2311 Ohio Ave. with a variety of activities for center members and others.

The activities included: a holiday craft and coloring session; a visit with Jim George, the Amputee Santa; Christmas cookie decorating; aerial arts performances; and photos with Santa.

Cat Lang-Bigley, the center’s executive director, said an Amputee Santa is important for celebrating inclusion, representation, and community.

Children with disabilities often grow up feeling different, unseen, or misunderstood, she said. Seeing someone like Santa — an iconic, beloved figure — who shares a part of their journey, like using a prosthetic leg, sends a powerful message: “You are not alone. You are seen. You are valued.”

The Amputee Center in Parkersburg held a holiday program Dec. 14 that included an Amputee Santa, portrayed by Jim George, who meets with center member Marley Jouvier, right. (Photo Provided)

Research shows that representation boosts self-esteem and confidence in children, especially those who face societal barriers. When kids see Amputee Santa, they see someone who looks like them, proving that a disability doesn’t define their ability to spread joy, love, and kindness, Lang-Bigley said.

For children without disabilities, meeting Amputee Santa is an opportunity to learn about diversity in a positive, heartwarming way. It opens the door for conversations about challenges others face and teaches acceptance, empathy, and the beauty of every individual’s unique journey.

An amputee Santa becomes a living lesson in resilience and the power of adapting to life’s challenges. He shows children-and adults-that strength comes in many forms, and joy is universal.

Amputee Santa normalizes the presence of prosthetics and disabilities in everyday life. This representation helps break down stereotypes, combat stigma, and create a more inclusive society where people with disabilities are not just accepted but celebrated for their contributions and abilities, she said.

The Amputee Center is more than just a physical space-it’s a lifeline for countless individuals navigating life with limb loss, she said. From fitness programs and emotional support to community outreach and education, the Amputee Center empowers people to live their fullest lives.