[AMP-L] Support Group Messages, solutions and missed messages

[Lance Colie]

"when the new amputee needs it most...The answers
ar readily available, but the questions are not yet 
known."     Tim 

I agree completely.  I did not know what a prosthetist is either.  I believe that I found out through connecting with the ACA and becoming a member, though I may have learned about it from my OT in rehab.  I don't remember clearly now, even though it was in Mar 2007.

Clearly, every amputee is different.  I was full of questions immediately after
my amputation, mostly about what happens next and how will I learn to walk again, but also including how do I find out about living as an amputee.  My PTs and OTs answered lots of my questions and also provided answered many of them before I had the chance to ask.   In addition, just that simple question of how I will learn to walk again led me to resources.  I also went online on
my first day home from rehab and searched for amputee resources, and I
asked the PTs and OTs at my rehab program about products and assistive
devices for living independently at home as an amputee and where I can
get them.

Perhaps the best resource immediately after amputation is another amputee or the ACA.  One of things our amputee support group here in Cleveland is trying to do is make area hospitals and orthopedic departments and staff - and also rehab programs and staff - increasingly aware of the ACA and provide the ACA  starter kit that includes their wonderful publication for new amputees.  These institutions also have lists of amputees who are willing to come to the hospital or rehab to meet with amputees and just listen to their concerns and provide support - as well as answers - where it seems appropriate.  I was asked to be on the lists for my hospital and rehab program, and I gladly agreed.

So, I guess the good news is that things seem to be improving for amputees, at least in some places, when compared to 5 or 10 years ago or more. 

Lance 

 Lance Colie
1982 Staunton Road
Cleveland Heights OH 44118
(216) 397-0630
ldeanc at sbcglobal.net
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