You don't need your hands, and you don't need your feet. But your knees, and your elbows are really important. With the prosthetic legs, and feet they have these days, in a year or two you may from time to time actually forget which one is the fake one. And then there is this, I have over the years pulled at least ten nails out of the bottom of my fake foot. And it didn't hurt one bit. One more thing, and this is important, DO NOT TAKE ANY CRAP FROM THOSE WHO BUILD YOUR NEW LEG. If something isn't working for you ( like if it hurts, or something ) don't let them tell you that you'll get use to it. Don't accept that crap, and make them fix it, cause they can.
@@FootlessJo I have had a fused ankle for 14 years now and know what your talking about with the repeated surgeries after each one you can't walk for about 6 months, its really frustrating. I went about 3 years before I got a solid fuse with no pain, but the limitations of the fusion are frustrating. I'm interested in seeing how you adapt to the new prosthetic and how you think it compares to the fusion.
"knees are really important".. makes me feel blessed for having two messed up knees😂 had surgery on one after years of pain and dislocating and now the other is acting up.. the human body is amazing when if works, but one piece out of place/defective and all hell breaks loose 😂😂
@@essiadeoliveira I hear what you're saying. As a person that has no hands, and only one elbow, I know how important elbows are. I have only one foot but two knees. The leg that's missing the foot has a messed up knee and so I have a brace on my artificial leg to support it. Better a messed up knee, than no knee. I have a friend that's missing his knee and getting around is much harder for him.
I’m not an amputee and I don’t personally know any, but your reflections on getting through hard parts of life and being authentic to yourself and your emotions is so relevant and important to me :)
Ruby-Clare, thank you so much for saying that! I truly appreciate it! I'm so glad they could resonate with you. I think that a lot of grief or just the human experience of emotion is common to so many. Thank you for listening!
You’re such a breath of fresh air because you’re just so raw with your emotions and you don’t try to lie to yourself. I love how you’re so honest with how you feel instead of faking it because that’s what you” should” be feeling
Cant lie these videos of yours really touch me, getting my leg amputated soon also . . 10 surgerys later, decided to go with the amputation, ur vids make me feel better about it
You and I both had 10 surgeries prior to amputation! I'm so sorry you're facing this...and I know a lot of people probably tell you this, but there is honestly life after amputation. If I can answer any questions or anything, let me know! I know its a hard decision to make, but for me, it was definitely the right one.
Footless Jo yea it feels like its the right choice, i was in a motorcycle accident and broke every bone in my leg , broke my hand and fractured my skull, everything healed but my tibia had an infection, after 7 months of crazy surgeries & going to hospital every single day for 3 months now nothing has gotten better, so its my only choice, it sucks but i know life would get better for me, thanks so much for replying means alot to me 👌🏻❤️
John, I wish you all the best for your upcoming surgery. It's going to be hard, but with your strength and courage you'll come out the other side ready to take on the world once again. You're very brave for making the decision to amputate. A year from now, with a prosthetic, you'll be walking around pain and carefree, feeling like yourself again. Living life in constant pain is no life, and I'm with you all the way
Chad Gillespie oh gosh thank you! I actually want to be a speaker! I’ve practiced public speaking for years and do it on other topics but would love to do it for amputees now’ thanks for your encouragement!
Is anyone gonna talk about how the leg guy used a flower pen? So cute 🌸❤️ Keep on keeping on. I’m so interested in your story and look forward to seeing more.
Haha that was actually what I was saying to him when the music was playing and I took the audio out! I said it matched his complexion well. Lol. Thank you so much for your support and for being part of this journey!
I’m not an amputee but seeing her thrive through her hardest times makes me feel like everyone should take it how she does . Positively and confidently and with humour. I’m grateful for having found your channel because amputee or not.. your personality is really motivating.
As I'm reading through all these comments there are so many tears in my eyes and even more from your beautiful comment, THANK YOU. ❤️ Your words touched me and were so kind and amazing to me!
Found your story by accident on a little youtube crusade! I think it is awesome that you are sharing your progress and experiences. It's really brave of you to share this! You are an inspiration, keep it up and all the very best in your continuing recovery :) x
I love how she’s always so happy no matter what is happening . She stays so strong during hard times . That’s such a beautiful thing . She is so grateful for everything and we could all learn from this . 😊
Great job. It didn't take me so long to walk even being a double amputee myself. It was so hard though for the first time but eventually got it. Great job girl!
I have chronic depression and sometimes I feel the same way about being happy. It’s super scary to do something that you know is exhausting and different. I love your channel
That is ridiculous they didn't make sure their floors are clean, I am so sorry that happened. Your mum is so sweet. I am so happy for you, thank you for showing us this Jo, I started to cry with happiness for you
I don't know how many times I've gone into restaurants and felt a greasy film on a tile floor. My wife does legal transcription and she's had to type up a case where a woman cracked her skull because of it. It's not uncommon and I'm guessing it means someone was lazy with the mop.
I have a chronic illness that makes pain management and energy levels so important. When you said in your video to be honest with yourself, and honest with others... this really resonated with me. It’s okay to be where you are at, and to feel what you are feeling in that moment. Thanks for sharing. It inspires those of us who are struggling with our own stuff to be courageous.
I have tears of joy for you .. those that disliked this obviously don't know what you really went through ...Iwent through this 3 years ago with my ex husband .. he had a freak accident at work and they ended up taking the right leg . It started as a below knee but they ended up having to go back and do an above knee .. he went through a rollercoaster of feels .. and still has problems .. I still have his day one video of walking for the first time me and Josh (the guy that made his leg) had tears he didn't think he would walk again he had the biggest grin ever!.
I am an amputee and so I kind of know the feeling of when you take your first step... it feels amazing, right? You are such an incredible woman xxx keep up the amazing work ❤️ I became an amputee two years ago and I still can’t talk about it like you xxx thank you xxxx
My sister lost her right lower leg a few days ago while working it was a traumatic amputation she nearly die. I’m so glad she’s alive although I’m sad because no one is with her at the hospital due to the pandemic, I recently found you and I’m glad I did and I can’t wait for my baby sister to begin her recovery and show her your videos. I know it’s a long road ahead of her but I would be there every step of the way. I want her to know there is light at the end of the tunnel. Thank you for your videos and sharing with us.
You got this girl, keep up the good work. My father turns 62 tomorrow and is a double amputee one leg has been gone for 3 years and the other just a year. He’s doing amazing so I know you will too!! Stay positive ❤️❤️❤️
Please don't give yourself such a hard time Jo. You are grieving the loss of your foot. It is a time of so many mixed emotions. Take each day as it comes because you are handling life the only way you can. You don't have to be upbeat it is okay to be depressed and have a good cry. This video is you coming to terms with your situation. Be yourself because you are amazing. xxx
Your positive attitude is seriously contagious. Thank You. Even if every day isn't a great day, which I can well imagine it isn't, I truly admire how you find the positive within the challenges. I have all of my limbs and yet I still often struggle to find the positive aspects of life. Props!
I am a Physical Therapist Assistant, and watching you progress has been such a pleasure! It's the best part of my job when patients make breakthroughs towards their goals!!
Just don't get discouraged. You're through the hardest part now, Everything from now on is going to get much much better. I got my first leg 10 weeks post op, had to walk with crutches for 3 weeks, then one crutch for 2 weeks and a cane for a few weeks before I could walk without pain in my stump (Named Dr. Nubinstein). Granted I weigh probably double what you do but it's all good. Now I can walk without even a limp and wear my leg from 7am to 11pm daily without getting tired.
Thanks so very much for sharing your journey. My DH, 75 years old, just had an above the knee amputation. The problem first started after a “dirty” (supposed to sterile but wasn’t), knee surgery seeded a nasty infection that kept coming back again & again. After YEARS of fighting one serious infection after another, each requiring various types of heavy duty IV or “P.O.” Antibiotics. His doctors finally told him, oh-so-gently and kindly, that his body was worn out from the fight. He needed to have an above the knee amputation. That has been done. Naturally he had complications with that, too, but he just got transferred to an excellent rehab-only hospital for three weeks of intense rehab. I’ve appreciated your site so much because I’ve been wondering what to expect, etc. I still don’t know what he will need when he FIRST comes home. All they’ve said is that he can take sponge baths for awhile. (How is that gonna comfort a man who loves to take a hot shower at night before he goes to bed? He gets to do that at rehab. What do I need to do for him to be able to do that when he gets home? I wish someone would tell me!)
I chose to have a BKA and the surgery was on March 8, 2019. I watched your video with the rats where you explained how this all happened and the process of deciding to have it done rather than wait for it to be a "must do" instead of a "ready to". I applaud your courage to be proactive about your health, best wishes and keep driving forward.
After only two videos I have to say... your personality and outlook on everything and just the way you speak is so uplifting and positive and inspiring to someone like me! I'm so caught up with my thoughts and I put so much emotional weight behind everything, but listening to you rationalize and say everything out loud... I just love listening to it, as weird as that sounds.
The mental strength you have Jo is astounding, thanks so much for sharing your experience with us. even when you dont feel like filming. I love horse riding too x
How is it that I found your channel only 20 minutes ago and I'm already smiling when you take your first steps. Maybe it's because I can relate in some sort of way because I had a tibia and fibula break and it's still painful. I really hope you enjoy your new life and I'm so happy for you!!
Wow. You are such a strong person!!! I am so glad you shared your story. Makes smaller problems seem so much more feesable compared to how strongly you handled you situation! Keep it up!!!
Its funny how you were hoping for this to happen sooo much at your earlier appointment and you thought it would happen. Then when you thought it wasn't going to happen it did! I have been watching your videos from the very beginning all day! Love your channel.
Thanks for making these videos! My brother got his hand chewed-up by a machine at work when he was 18. Although he wasn't in pain as the gears had severed the nerves, his damaged finger started getting in the way, it would go purple in the Winter...so, he made the decision to get it amputated. He got a really good surgeon that took out the entire index finger and knuckle. He was so much happier after the surgery.
Thanks for being real and authentic and just know that we are all here for you and the good bad and the ugly we wouldn’t be here if we didn’t care so thank you
I have chronic pain on my body for a couple years now. It is so frustrating because the pain pulls me down all the time but people around me still want me to be positive. Thanks for reminding me to acknowledge these emotions and it's okay feel sad or angry or scared.
You are amazing! I do not know how it feels to be an amputee, but I deal with heavy anxiety daily. In your video you talk about how important it is to be honest with yourself. I learned that lesson while in school for psychology and counseling. However, I still beat myself up over emotions that I felt I shouldn't have. My counselor taught me that I don't go to a store and pull my emotions off a shelf and purchase them. I don't get to choose my emotions. I only get to choose how I react to my emotions. That helped me a lot. It is hard to be honest with myself and accept that I don't get to choose my emotions, but being honest with myself helps me learn how to better handle my anxiety and grow as a person. Watching this video I saw such positivity in you accepting your emotions and embracing you being honest with yourself. I think your videos can help people from all walks of life because your authenticity can help others learn how to accept themselves for who they are!
Thank you for your story. It helps me comprehend what my dad may be going through right now because he just had a foot amputated about 2-3 weeks ago. I live in a different state and am an only child so it's hard feeling like I should be there for him when I can't be. Your story reminds me that even with a positive outlook there are still good and bad days and I have to trust him to evaluate that himself and reach out to me if needed.
I live with chronic pain called Trigeminal neuralgia and incontractable migraines and I'm so happy that you are advancing with your life in such a beautiful and healthy way.
Kt Cat I have chronic vestibular migraines and I am so, so sorry for what you have to deal with. Chronic pain is such a unique kind of completely exhausting and draining...it takes a lot to keep going some days. But you’re doing it, you warrior. 💜 Thank you so much for your wonderful encouragement and support!
Bless you. Yes, please be real. Others who are going thru a process of healing know they aren't alone. Fear....just a little word, but full of many different emotions for many different reasons. Last year I smashed my hip in a motorbike accident and one day a friend got me out of the house and we went for lunch. I needed to go to the toilet before we left, and had to walk on my crutches past the kitchen to the restroom. OMG...although the floor looked clean it was extremely oily and one of the crutches did it's own thing. I managed to stay upright but did strain my groin. The shock and fright that went along with that was very confronting. Not something I could really share with anyone. To others it wasn't a big deal because I didn't fall. For that I was of course grateful. I try to stay upbeat ajd positive like you, but it is not always possible and as you said, authentic. Sometimes part of the healing process and progress is scary. Thankyou for sharing your journey.
Good morning Jo, I'm so happy for you and it was almost 1 year ago that I took my first steps on my first prosthetic leg in the same room and I was mega excited ! They advised me to use my crutches for the first week or so but after 3 days I was walking around the house without them as for me the walking came fast to me but everyone is a little different but you look like you will pick it up very fast. They always make your next appointment out 1 week in the beginning but if you have an issue don't hesitate to go back to get it corrected as a couple of times I made it 3 days and had to go in to get it adjusted and most was quick and minor changes that made a huge difference in my walking.
You are an incredible woman.❤️❤️❤️ i literally cried but then i felt like you are the strongest. Love you and be happy!❤️ i wish you health and happiness
Your story is a very inspirational story, to see how you manage to see a lot of things in a positive way is just amazing, it even makes me wana be positive too so i like it... and i wish u the best and hopefully stay updated🙃
I shed happy tears watching you take your first steps. A symbol and testament to the human spirit of never giving up! Good luck on your Journey and God bless!
So happy for you! Amazing to watch your progression and see your first steps! I love how honest you're trying to be with both yourself and us. Definitely helpful to hear about your mental process through this and Im so grateful you're sharing this journey with us
Thank you so much! A tiny part of my (big part...lol) worries sometimes about sharing the emotional side of it honestly, because I feel like I'm expected by others to "be positive" 24/7, and that's just not real life. I'm trying to be authentic...so comments like yours really help me, and I'm grateful. Thank you.
I get casted next week sometime. A lot of things running through my mind. I just keep telling myself I am happy to be alive. The blood clots in my case could have ended me. I have a genuine appreciation for those that I can influence in a positive way and also adore those that are sympathetic to my situation. Keep trucking girl you look like your doin great and above all maintain that positive attitude as it helps us in those really bad times. I can relate to what you’re saying... I can also relate to what you’re not saying. All the best in the coming new year.
Hey my fellow amputee friend! Its a weird club to be a part of, isn't it? Not something either one of us probably ever "wanted" for our lives, but it sounds like you too are making the best of it (good and bad days included!). It can be a lot to mentally process, but we'll both keep taking it piece by piece. Keeping that deep appreciation for life alive is so amazing. I hope that beautiful things continue your way. Good luck with your casting this coming week!
I seen a really interesting pic on a amputee support site I was on. It was of a lighthouse in the ocean being totally ravaged by the waters around it. I commented on that site that I feel many times like I am that lighthouse. I can be a beacon for those around me helping to give them hope and inspiration yet at the same time I am totally compromised and at the mercy of the elements around me. The ones that maintain this lighthouse are myself and a few loved ones! How bright I choose to shine my light is up to me!
Wow... You are a WARRIOR. I am sending so much light and love your way. You're truly incredible. I hope life will give you only the best of the best, but I'm not worried at all about that because you deserve it so there's no way you're not gonna be rewarded by the universe for being such an open hearted angel. I have just discovered your channel 10 minutes ago and I'm in love with you and your view on everything. Keep being so awesome! I absolutely adore you. Thank you for doing what you do and being who you are and sharing all of that with the world! All of the happiness in the world to you and your family ✨❤️❤️❤️😘😘
Your mom is too cute!!! I love those little lights she put in the car for you!! Congrats on walking already!! I got so excited watching you take those first steps. Thank you so much for sharing that with us!! I hope this is a big game changer for you. Best Christmas ever!!
I found your story on random recommended. This video made me cry. I lost my grandpa this year, he had a double below the knee amputation and what turned the corner for him was that the great grandkids didn't treat him any different. you never know what is going to be the thing that gets you through.
Jo, it is totally normal to feel every emotion you did yesterday. Congrats on your first steps! First of all you are learning to walk for the third time in your life. Most people only have to learn once. In learning the second and third times you are also having to trust that a) the crutches will support you and then b) your artificial leg will do so. Even though you know in your head they will, it is a different matter emotionally. You have been so strong, positive and happy throughout all of this, at least what I have seen, I wondered when the other emotions would show up. You have made it through so many challenges. When everything has settled down why don’t you consider volunteering at your local hospital or rehab centre to meet with new amputees? The reason I am asking is not to be rude, but, in my area more experienced amputees are matched up with new amputees in a similar situation. I mean a person missing an arm isn’t matched with someone missing a leg for example. The pairings are done with the new patient’s permission and they talk about things like services available, how their lives change and how they don’t need to change. I am sure much more happens and I am not talking from the standpoint of being an amputee, but of being a family member. I think you have the personality for it. A lot of what I am talking about is basically like your vlog except it is done on a one on one basis. My mum was a below knee amputee and was so good with and for others. She just couldn’t see how well she did for herself.
I discovered your channel about a week ago and the very first thing that i noticed was your remarkable personality. The way you live your life nearly seems to be unaffected by your decision to have the amputation. You’re so full of joy and happiness - definitely a role model. The world needs more people like you!
@@FootlessJo Oh my gaaaaawd you subbed!!!!!!! **heavy breathing** xD Thank you for your sweet answer, that made my day today as well. Thanks for sharing your story and your exceptional self with the world. You rock!!
I just started watching your videos today I’m glad you were on my recommended you are one of the most empowering, pretty and strong people I’ve ever “met”(not actually met but you know) I can’t relate to your journey but I love seeing you on this process and taking on this journey can’t wait to see what’s the next step on this wild ride in life 💕
Oh my gosh Jo I’m so happy for you Im actually crying after the first step 😭 That was so sweet of your husband to meet you there, I know my boyfriend is a huge anxiety reliever for me so I’m sure that helped with your initial feelings. You look GREAT *big hugs*
Haley, thank you so much! And exactly, he helped my anxiety soooo much and made me feel so much more confident. I'm so glad your boyfriend is your rock, too! I appreciate your support so much girl!
Your video pop up on my feed. Your story is so special! I'll pray for you on your journey! Inspirational and hope your high spirit can bring smiles to everyone!
Ive only watched a few of your videos but I worked up to this one. I am in tears😂 This is so amazing for you and your family!!! You’re such a powerful person, and such an inspiration to me!
Your video was recommended on RU-vid and I just watched 3 videos in a row, I couldn't stop. You are beyond brave and strong. I don't know why but I started crying when I saw you taking first few steps. Thank you for sharing such amazing videos with us!
I watched this video like a million times now (not quite) and I love seeing your first steps, I love how the prosthetist acts like half doctor, half mechanic, and I really REALLY relate to the fear/pseudo-expected excitement you describe. Thanks a million for sharing your journey.
I’ve never jumped over to a video so fast!! I’m so happy for you hun. You’re walking in it so well and I’m honestly so proud. You get to have your life back! This is only the beginning💪🏽I can’t wait to see where you go from here. I can’t wait to see you hiking, jogging, horseback riding, and so much more.
I pray to become more like you. You are an incredible person both inside and outside. I also pray that you find the strength and courage to keep pushing. I love you ♥️♥️
You made me cry. You are AMAZING!! I WILL be following you and cheering you along the way! I’m so glad for you that you are allowing yourself to feel whatever you need to feel at the moment! You WILL do this!!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Hi, my names anton im 25 years old...sadly this june I was in a major car accident were I almost lost from my knee down on my right leg...seeing your story has gave me inspiration and motvation to never give up...I hope ill be able to make the same success journy as you. Keep up the fantastic work and never give up....ty for makin me relize im not alone in this long journy and always remember your not alone also :) your a hero an inspiration to all. Ty
Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us. You’re so so inspirational and strong. Even at your lowest points, you’re able to see the light, and that makes me so very happy. 💕💕
Jo, just gotta say your videos were a RU-vid recommendation to me and I'm glad they were. You're encouraging and inspiring attitude are contagious. I haven't experienced amputation but felt EXACTLY how you described after battling breast cancer; when I totally expected to feel elated/relieved. Seriously confused me greatly that my emotions didn't match my circumstances. Guess that's why SHOULD is bad... ;) anyways so happy for you. Rejoicing with you. 😍😘💙
We are both warriors, girl! ❤️It is so odd how emotions play tricks on us...or should I say, our expectations do. I feel like I have to learn every day again to accept what my emotions ARE, not what they "should" be based on some standard or expectation I have. It is so weird when they go against everything we expect them to be...but I agree, I guess that is why SHOULD is bad! Thank you so much for your comment, and for being happy for me and rejoicing ❤️❤️💪🏽
Omg girl I love you you are sooooo Positive I love your positivity 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍 There’s always hope I’m so proud that we still have ppl like you in this word Keep going we’ll support you 😘😘
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