Dr Cor Hutton MBE BCAc DL is a quadruple amputee, single mother, activist, charity founder, world record holder and the first Scot to receive a double hand transplant.
In 2013, a simple cough developed into pneumonia and then sepsis, leaving Cor with just a 5% chance of survival. Against all odds she survived, but both her hands and legs were amputated. Within four months, Cor was walking a mile on prosthetic legs through Glasgow city centre to raise awareness of Finding Your Feet, the amputee charity she founded to support others facing limb loss. What began with a few people meeting for coffee is now Scotland’s leading source of peer support, running more than 80 clubs and activities every month.
Cor’s achievements since then have inspired audiences across the UK and beyond. She was the first female quadruple amputee to summit Ben Nevis and Mount Kilimanjaro, completed the London Triathlon, and in 2022 trekked the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. In early 2019, she became the first Scot to receive a double hand transplant, and in late 2024 she underwent a successful kidney transplant.
Her work and determination have been widely recognised. Cor has carried the Commonwealth Games baton, received the Freedom of Renfrewshire, been presented with the Prime Minister’s Points of Light award, regularly appeared in Inspirational Women of the Year lists, and in 2023 was awarded an MBE. She has also received three honorary doctorates and was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant (DL) of Renfrewshire.
Cor devotes her life to running her charity in addition to campaigning for greater awareness of organ, tissue and limb donation, spotting the signs of killer sepsis, and promoting prevention methods to reduce the need for amputation. She is also passionate about improving perceptions and conditions for disabled people, changing boundaries and breaking down the stigma of being ‘different’.
In her talks, Cor covers themes such as:
- Overcoming challenges
- Building resilience
- The power of positivity
- Teamwork and community
- Inspiring those around you
- Goal setting and values
Cor’s trademark humour, honesty and down-to-earth storytelling make her an unforgettable speaker. She has been covered by news outlets worldwide and appeared on The One Show and Good Morning Britain. Of all her accomplishments, she is proudest of raising her son, Rory.
