Designed to Live seeks to empower those influenced by disability to live a life of meaning and significance, to live beyond their disability. We seek to share Hope and the message of Jesus Christ to those who face the daily challenges of life with a disability.

15% of the world's population is influenced by disability. Only 5-10% of these people are reached for Christ, resulting in one of the largest unreached people groups in the world. Designed to Live is driven by the conviction that everyone, regardless of ability or disability, is entitled to be introduced to Christ and the love He has for them.

Every person is created by God in His image. We are all ‘designed to live’ the life God has planned for us to live, using the gifts He has blessed us with. Just like a fingerprint, every person leaves a unique mark on the world and the people they encounter. God has uniquely designed each of us, having specific skills and talents that can be used to glorify Him.

Psalms 139:13-16 | Genesis 1:26-27 | John 9:1-3 | Ephesians 4:15-16

Katie Leatherwood, CPO

Ministry Director
Katie@designedtolivelatvia.com

Katie is a certified Prosthetist and Orthotist (CPO) with a passion to share the love of Jesus Christ with people affected by disability. Using her knowledge in prosthetics, orthtoics, and disability awareness, Katie seeks to engage this community through physical intervention, emotional encouragement, and spiritual discipleship.
After graduating from LeTourneau University in 2009, with a degree in Kinesiology (Exercise Science), Katie went to graduate school to study Prosthetics and Orthotics and earned a Certification in Prosthetics and Orthotics (CPO). She worked full-time in the field of Prosthetics and Orthotics since 2009, before moving to Latvia in 2015.

‘'Prosthetics and orthotics has given me the foundation to impact people’s lives physically; Jesus has equipped me with the foundation to impact them spiritually. I am driven by the conviction that everyone in Latvia, regardless of ability or disability, is entitled to be introduced to Christ.”

Professional Qualifications:
Certified Prosthetist-Orthotist - CPO03421 (ABC)
Tehniskais ortopēds - Nr.00008/8-8/0000/8 (LV)
B.S. Kinesiology - Exercise Science