For most people, getting their driver’s license is a milestone that brings a sense of freedom and independence. For Talli Osborne, it represented much more—a victory over years of challenges and the realization of a dream that many thought impossible. Born without arms and with shortened legs, Talli’s path to driving her own care took seven years of determination, resilience, and a lot of hope.
Originally from Montreal and later a resident of Hamilton, Canada, Talli is a motivational speaker who moved to Las Vegas in 2022. Despite the obstacles, she never once wavered in her desire to gain the independence that driving would bring. “If you truly want to achieve something, you can do it no matter what the hurdle,” she said, looking back on her journey.
Turning A Dream Into Reality
The process was far from easy, starting with a $1,000 consultation with an occupational therapist to determine how she could safely drive. Talli found her dream car—a used fuchsia MINI Cooper—but the modifications necessary for her to drive it came with a serious price tag. When she learned it would cost nearly $100,000, Talli went into shock.
Yet, even when the COVID-19 pandemic stalled her fundraising efforts, and her mother suggested she sell the car, Talli refused to let go. “If I sell this car, that’s me literally giving up on this dream,” she shared. Then, a turning point came when the War Amps’ Child Amputee Program stepped in to cover the remaining costs, a gesture that brought Talli to tears.
A Car Like No Other
The modifications, done by Courtland Mobility in Burlington, Ontario, were carefully tailored to meet Talli’s unique needs. The car features a five-inch steering wheel on the left door, extended gas and brake pedals, a touchscreen she controls with her left foot, and a custom seatbelt. After additional work was completed in Maine, Talli’s MINI Cooper was finally ready. But another hurdle awaited her: getting her Nevada driver’s license.
The licensing process was frustrating and even degrading at times, with forms assuming her condition was an illness. “I was born this way, and nothing’s changing,” Talli said, expressing how dehumanizing it felt. Yet, she persevered, fueled by her desire for independence.
Celebrating Newfound Freedom
Since getting her license, Talli has shared her journey on social media, where a video of her driving has been viewed more than 21 million times. While the response has been mostly supportive, some comments have been hurtful, questioning her true ability to drive. Talli, however, remains undeterred. “For me to get my license, it’s a million times harder, so I’m going to be a million times better driver,” she said with confidence.
Looking ahead, Talli is excited to hit the road, with plans to visit friends in California soon. Reflecting on her journey, she says, “I’m so proud of myself for not giving up on that dream.”
Resources:
The War Amps
Boston Children’s Hospital: Congenital Limb Differences
Disabled Motoring in the United States of America
References:
CBC News: After 7 years and almost $100K, Canadian woman born without arms and short legs can now drive
New York Post: Woman born without arms and with shortened legs can now drive after 7 years and almost $100K
Talli Osborne’s official website
Talli Osborne on Instagram