Tell us the story of your injury and amputation.
I’ve been a runner and loved to exercise for 50 years. In 2000, I had pain in my left leg; it was a plugged artery. For the next eight years, I had 20 surgeries, 8 grafts and finally nothing more could be done, so my left leg was amputated.
What type of prosthetic device are you wearing?
I’m a below-the-knee amputee wearing a prosthesis with suction.
“What I cannot do today, there is always another day.”
Do you have any advice to share with new patients in similar situations?
Have a positive attitude and try to live as normally as possible, doing what you want to do.
Is there a resource that was helpful to you during your recovery?
Support groups. The Internet. Seeing clips of other amputees and what they’re able to do.
How has your prosthesis changed your life?
Very little. What I cannot do I will not do, but it’s not of much concern. For example, it might take more time to do chores, but what I cannot do today, there is always another day.
What are some achievements you’ve reached since your amputation?
I can bicycle, roller skate, downhill ski and hike.