Amp U T chat is for amputees.

AMPUTEE CHAT NEWSLETTER

IN THIS ISSUE

1. NOTES FROM John & Joyce Meyer
2. "LETTERS TO THE EDITOR"
3. GENERAL INFORMATION
4. HINTS and TIPS
5. QUOTE/THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

1.) NOTES FROM John & Joyce

Without causing undue alarm, I recently saw a "factoid" (on CNN) that stated 25% (one in four) disabled people will be the victim of an assault (or at least an attempted assault.) I certainly don't think that we should lock ourselves in our rooms, but there are many preventative measures you can take. And this isn't strictly for amputees either. Here are some safety ideas for your consideration:

1. Contact your local law enforcement agency for a list of self defense courses. There are self defense course available, even for those in wheelchairs. Most of these course are free or have a minimal charge. (This is the single most import thing you can do to safeguard yourself.)
   
2. Try not to travel alone, especially at night.
   
3. Check local laws regarding the use of pepper/mace spray.
   
4. If you can't afford a cellular phone, a CB radio is the next best thing and they are not that expensive. I recently purchased a complete unit, with antenna at Wal-Mart for under $40. I'm sure other stories also have inexpensive unit. (All CB's are regulated by the FCC to meet minimum requirements.) This is not just crime prevention but you can "breakdown" anytime, anywhere. Emergency response agencies monitor channel 9, nation-wide. (Caution: Don't use other channels for distress calls, you have no idea who is listening on the other end.)
   
   *NOTE: Most, if not all, electric wheelchairs and scooters use 24 volt systems, don't try to wire a CB or other electric/electronic equipment to the wheelchair electrical system. CBs are generally 12 volts, adapters, however are available.
   
5. Even though it is more inconvenient to renew handicapped parking permits, putting a handicapped license plate on your vehicle can "mark" you as a "easy prey." I know most doctor's no longer use the MD plates, to avoid vandals, thieves, and addicts.
   
6. Many fire departments provide window decals called TOT FINDERS. Even though you are not a "TOT" one of these on your bedroom window could save your life. (October is Fire Prevention Month. [grin]) Do not place something on your window or door that announce that you are disable or living alone.
   
7. Many women with listed phone numbers, use a masculine version of their name or only their initials such as "Phil" instead of "Phyllis" or "J. Doe." Same thing on mailboxes.
   
8. Never respond to a phone survey without verifying the company, organization affiliation of the person conducting the interview--even if you have to make a phone call first. You wouldn't let someone in you front door with out proper ID--so don't make yourself vulnerable on the phone either. ((Example: Most people realize they shouldn't give out their charge/bank account numbers, but don't think about responding to a survey with their age, marital status, etc. An unscrupulous caller can determine when you are home, if you live alone, etc.)
   
9. Try to be aware of your surroundings. Note fire exits in buildings, but also be aware of the people around you, lighting, etc.
   
10. Noise attracts attention. Compressed air powered boat, horns can makes a noise loud enough to signal for help even over a distance, and at close range it can momentarily "stun" an assailant. Check Allied Sporting Goods, Wal-Mart or many other sporting goods store and department store chains.
    
11. IF you can manage a dog they are not only a deterrent with their barking and teeth, they are wonderful companions.

2.) "LETTERS TO THE EDITOR"

Dear John, (10/15/95)

((Note: This letter was sent in response to a previous Newsletter, Vol. 1 #9))

RE: For Lower Extremity Amputees:

"Save your temporary prosthesis, if you can, as it makes a good shower/water leg. (It can also be a back-up in an emergency."

...advise that people check with their prosthetist to determine the suitability of a "temporary" prosthesis for continued use. Temporary limbs come in many forms, and some may need to be reinforced for vigorous activity after a wearer has become a proficient user. Some may require protection to make them suitable for shower use. Plaster temporaries aren't very common today, but they would be particularly unsuitable for later use. Furthermore, a "temporary" leg probably doesn't fit very well anymore.

Chas.

[[Thanks for your letter. We always like folks to check with their Physician or Prosthetist before trying something. What may work for one person, doesn't necessarily work for everyone. This is a good reminder to read the important information.]]

3.) GENERAL INFORMATION

THE ADVICE (DISCLAIMER)

Please be sure to read the information at this link at least once.

4.) HINTS AND TIPS

TIPS

For Power Wheel Chair Users

If you have the financial resources to purchase a full sized van and a hydraulic lift, traveling is relatively easy with a heavy electric wheelchair. However, an inexpensive alternative would be a small flat bed trailer, available through national discount chains, for under $300. Most of these tilt making loading and unloading the wheelchair easy. You will probably need to purchase some sort of hold down mechanism, as well as weather protection (a tarp or something.)

Upper Extremity

As the cost of "cosmetic" gloves rise and insurance providers are unwilling to pay for replacements, you may want to think about buying regular (like Icetoner) gloves for every day use or rubber (household) gloves for those really dirty jobs.

Have a hint, tip, or suggestion? Please email us and we will consider it for use in the newsletter.

5.) QUOTE/THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

"Honor and shame from no condition rise;
Act well your part, there all the honor lies."
--Alexander Pope

© Copyright October 23, 1995 J. Meyer. All rights reserve.