I have been told I am coping well with my amputation but am keen to see other people's experiences. So far I have read two books by people who have lost a leg. The problem is that they were both young (teenager and early twenties) and a lot fitter than me. I had been quite unwell as the infection from necrotic ulcers spread through me and when I reached rehab had lost between 12kg and 15kg depending on which scales I believe. Does anybody know of a book by an older amputee?
Inspirational Amputee Book: I have been... - Positive Wellbein...
Positive Wellbeing During Self-Isolation
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Inspirational Amputee Book
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MichaelJH
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Hi Michael.
Type into your search box” Books by authors who are amputees”
The list is endless...... hope this helps?
I did but everyone was a younger person (usually under 30). Ideally I would like to find someone who maybe lost a leg as a result of PAD. Many do/did including Jan-Michael Vincent (Air Wolf) and Waylon Jennings.
Hi Michael,
I’m sorry I don’t have any suggestions but wanted to ask how you felt you were coping. When others say, ‘well you look ok’ and you are laughing and joking (as I do) but they don’t really understand how people with both visible and invisible illnesses really feel. 🙂
I'm sorry to hear about this Michael, you really have been through a bad time haven't you. It's good to hear that you are coping well and I hope you continue to do so. All the best. xx
You've had such a tough time MichaelJH and its small wonder to hear of your weight loss. Sadly I can't help with book recommendations, but I wonder if entering 'amputee' in the books search section at amazon might bring up some books potentially written by older amputees.
As a military nurse I looked after a fair few amputees, years ago. I'm sure that treatment and outcomes have changed radically since then. But what doesn't change is attitude. I saw time and again, (and later in my own uncle when he lost first one, then the other of his legs), that acceptance and getting on top of negativity is the single factor which will enable you to move forward and adapt.
My uncle who was 79 when he lost his first leg just kept on saying how lucky he was to have dodged death and how grateful for all that others were doing for him, from the provision of his wheelchair to the adaptations of his assisted living apartment, to the love and care he received from his medical team.
Wishing you all the best as you continue your journey as an amputee. I hope you can find some books to inspire you. And we'd love to hear further updates from you. 🙏😊👍
MidoriVisually impaired
Hi Michael,
I don't have an amputation. but I have nursed many who have, and I find they tend to resolve into two groups.
The first group hates the amputation and by extension themselves, often have suicidal thoughts, and need intensive therapy to overcome the self hatred, and learn to face the world again, as they often cut themselves off from people and almost become hermits. They need to refind their own self worth, and it can be a long journey. During the time of depression or self hatred, they can easily alienate friends and family when sunk in their own depression. They push away the people they need most. Many get addicted to pain killers, and drink to excess.
The second group are those who, after a short period of grief, realise that they need to get on with life, and the only one who can truly help is themselves. They are the fighters, and live up to the challenge. They may need additional help from professionals to overcome the limitations, and their determination will carry them though. (Simon Weston for example, not an amputee, but horrifically burned during the Falklands war). These folk ignore their disability after the physical recovery, realising it is still them, but a slightly changed them, but still the same person inside.
This can also happen with PTSD; I have it after 15 years in an abusive marriage, back when there was virtually no help for the abused. 30 years ago I escaped with my two small children to a refuge, which sent us to another part of the country for our own protection. With Refuge help, I was able to get an injunction and to start divorce proceedings. After a few weeks he committed suicide after arranging for Mediation to get contact with the children, he didn't turn up, so the police were called and broke in to find him dead in bed. His family accused me of murdering him, despite me being in another part of the country, and it took 6 months for the Inquest to happen, which dragged it out. I was a wreck by now, but the needs of the children kept me going. Even now, and disabled, the PTSD is still around, certain things put me into panic mode, but I tell myself off and get on with my life. My little inner voice tries to bring me down, but I tell it to take a hike, and carry on regardless.
Sorry I can't help with a book, but I hope this might help a little.
Cheers, Midori
That was a very brave post Midori. Well done to you for sharing it. xx 💛
Not really. I use my own experiences in order to try to help others. I don't hide my life.
Cheers, Midori
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