The Power of Self Advocacy in Prosthetic Care
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Advocate and Rise
What happens when the people responsible for helping you move forward stop listening? You learn how powerful your own voice can become.
In this episode of the BAWarrior Podcast, I step back from the idea of constantly pushing forward to talk about one of the most important skills every amputee must develop: advocating for yourself.
Self-advocacy has been a major part of my journey since long before my amputation. After tearing my MCL while preparing for my second-degree black belt test, I endured five years, ten surgeries, increasing pain, and complications caused by arthrofibrosis. Each surgery brought a new doctor, a new explanation, and another retelling of my medical history. Eventually, I realized I could no longer rely on someone else to connect every piece of the puzzle for me.
I began reading my surgical reports, researching unfamiliar medical terms, writing down questions, and paying closer attention to what my body was telling me. That process helped uncover the condition behind many of my complications and eventually gave me the courage to advocate for the amputation that changed my life.
That need to speak up did not end after surgery. It became even more important.
As amputees, we depend heavily on our prosthetists, especially after our surgeons are no longer involved in our everyday care. A prosthetic leg will never feel exactly like the limb we lost, so we must balance realistic expectations with the knowledge that constant pain should not be accepted as normal. Discomfort, adjustment, and awkwardness can be part of learning a prosthesis. Debilitating pain is a sign that something may need further investigation.
I share how ongoing socket pain led my prosthetist and me to continue experimenting, collaborating, and searching for answers instead of giving up. Eventually, an MRI revealed a large neuroma that no socket adjustment could fix. That experience reminded me that good care requires teamwork. My prosthetist brought his knowledge, but I had to clearly communicate what I was feeling and continue trusting my instincts.
Supportive medical teams are a must in your positive care and experience as an amputee
Living as an amputee also carries a daily mental load. Some mornings my leg feels strong and ready for everything I have planned. Other days, discomfort, swelling, skin irritation, or a poor fit can completely change the day. Even more than seven years after my amputation, I still have to remain flexible and listen to my body.
My message throughout this episode is simple: do not give up on yourself. Ask questions. Bring someone with you when you need support. Find professionals who are willing to listen, collaborate, and fight beside you. You are more than an insurance claim, a medical chart, or a difficult case.
My support system
Your voice matters. Your mobility matters. Your future is worth fighting for.
Ready to Advocate for Yourself?
Your journey does not have to be walked alone. If you are struggling to feel heard, searching for answers, or simply needing a community that understands the realities of amputee life, I encourage you to reach out.
Join me and other women amputees during our weekly Amped Women virtual chats, where we come together to share, listen, encourage, and support one another. And if you are ready to move beyond survival, set meaningful goals, and take your next steps with accountability, Momentum may be the community you have been looking for.
Follow the BAWarrior Podcast, subscribe on YouTube, and connect with me on social media so you do not miss future episodes, live conversations, and community gatherings.
Most importantly, keep asking questions, keep trusting what your body is telling you, and never be afraid to use your voice.
You are worth advocating for. Your mobility matters. Your dreams matter. And you do not have to give up.
Have a beautifully blessed week ahead and as always,
Be Healthy,
Be Happy,
Be YOU!!!
Much love,
