| VOLUME 1 # 11 | OCTOBER 30, 1995 |
IN THIS ISSUE
1.) NOTES FROM John & Joyce
Because of the length of the "Letters..." section, this section is omitted.
2.) "LETTERS TO THE EDITOR"
(10/24/95)
Hi,
...I think I have always felt guilty for not helping new amputees. I thought I would not know what to say. I remember after my amputation no one was available to answer the many questions I had.
I also remember one person who did visit me, a young cousin who was a single BK. (She was young only about 20 and had been waiting for a bus a car lost control and ran into her.) She was visiting the city and went out of her way to visit me. I remember she showed me here prosthetic and explained how it was made and how well she can walk with it.
After she left I realized how much good life remained for me and was excited about all possibilities available. I have never forgotten and that is probably why I feel guilty.
Would it be possible to talk about how we could learn proper techniques to help amputees in the hospital?
My wife, knowing that I wanted to talk to someone, contacted the VA and they sent someone and he was the worst. After he left me I became very depressed. He said "don't believe the things the doctors promise such as you will be able to walk great." He said walking will be very difficult and I will have pain. He thought by telling me about the difficult times ahead he was saving me disappointments. (I felt like crying after this guy talked to me***) that's why it was so important to me when my cousin visited me. I have always wondered why doctors have so little information about prosthetics or other information new amputees are anxious to know.
I am sorry for bending your ear but if you think it possible put it to the "family" and see what you get as a response.
S.
Note: some of the above letter has been paraphrased.
(Editors Note: Volunteering to extend your hand and aid a "fellow" is rewarding. However, as S. indicates, the results can be mixed. We agree with S. that it is wise to seek some training in talking with new amputees, because even the best intentions can go awry. We have been wanting to do something like S. suggests. We are looking into it but, feel that we would need to schedule a separate chat time for this and would like to poll you all for email if you would like to attempt a "training" of this sort online. Folks with an inner desire and dedication to help "newbies" are welcome <smiles> You should also know, that there are support groups, books and video tapes that can help prepare you to be an emissary to patients. The Amputee Coalition of America has a "Peer Visitation Manual." In the meanwhile, one thing anyone can offer to any friend (or family) is sensitivity and an open ear. [Remember, it is easier to "hear" with your mouth shut [grin].]
Regarding Doctors not having/providing information...there can be many reasons, and I customarily give the benefit of the doubt...but honestly, WE are the ones that can help change this. There are many doctors that "just don't know." Some doctors need to be informed just as much as amputees do. The QUOTE FOR THE DAY bellow has something to do with this and S., you are on the right track.
Dear John and Joyce,
(10/21/95)
Regarding the suggestion in Vol. 1 #10
"4) If you can't afford a cellular phone, a CB radio is the next best thing and they are not that expensive."
I would like to recommend a third alternative (which I am surprised you did not think of [grin]) and that is Ham Radio. I know a couple, both of which are paraplegic, who use ham radio to great advantage, especially while traveling. There are always hams listening and generally go to a great deal of trouble to help someone at their own expense.
...146 MHz equipment is very popular because it is small (pocket size), reliable, and has a wider range of coverage than CB. Better quality of users also [grin]. The cost is a bit more [ugh] but the quality (FM and static free) and range make it worth the difference.
There is a lot of help out there in the ham community. An organization known as HandiHams gives help on "how to" with wheel chairs. A starting point for inquiries would be:
American Radio Relay League
225 Main Street
Newington, CT 06111-1494
FAX: (203) 668-5444 24 hrs.
R.
(Editors Note: If you are interested in the American Radio Relay League and do not have a FAX. Let me know and I will FAX them and get more information.)
THE ADVICE (DISCLAIMER)
Please be sure to read the information at this link at least once.
4.) HINTS AND TIPS
TIPS
For Lower Extremity
Avoid electric socks in the winter. They can overheat and even burn. Remember, you should check with your doctor or prosthetist.
Upper Extremity
For driving, a steering wheel "spinner" may be helpful. These may be found reasonably priced at NAPA or some farm supply chains and are rugged. NOTE: Please check with local laws regarding the installation and use of "spinners."
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
"If you want to change the world, begin by
changing yourself."
--unknown
© Copyright October 30, 1995 J. Meyer. All rights reserved.