AMPUTEES and the PROBLEM with COMPARING our DISABILITIES

[@nickjames5366]

Great video Chris. I had my leaky leg amputated below the knee in December. When discharged, I opted not to get a wheelchair, was on a walking frame for 2 weeks, then in to crutches. I had the fitting for my prosthesis on 28/3, first fitting on the 8/4. Walked with 1 crutch for a week. Now 6 weeks later I’m climbing stairs, cycling. I did my National Service in the Rhodesian Army, so had army colleagues who had lost limbs of various sorts. I was always amazed on how quickly they got on with life. The prosthesis department here in the main government hospital are impressed with my progress and have me attend clinics to try and give encouragement to other amputees. I know I am not as bad off as others. Just a positive attitude is required.

[@theampedlife]

Hi Nick thanks for such a positive, motivating comment. I agree that getting on with the process is good for the emotional healing, it gave me a mission and goal to work towards. Your rapid recovery time is encouraging, I hope that it motivates someone reading you comment. All the best, please keep in touch.

[@mareesturkenboom9775]

great video Chris Im above Knee amputee for 40 years love your messages and I hear what your message said and would like to add that I wanted and I hear of many other disabled who strive even harder in a disabled position than prior to being disabled I think I am a better person because i have become disabled. and choosing to believe in God helps. a God who knows everything about me It makes me feel grateful for what I can do

[@theampedlife]

Hi Maree, thanks for a thought provoking statement - that becoming an amputee made you a better person. I can say the same, my life is better for the loss, connecting with others with struggles has given it purpose and meaning, for which I am extremely grateful. A spiritual understanding and connection certainly plays a role, however it is experienced be each individual. It is such a personal experience and can be so comforting and enriching. Thanks for being a part of this discussion.

[@leonardogaytan3219]

Hi Chris! I just found your channel, and I enjoyed watching your videos. I live in Honduras and recently start using my prosthetic leg again after more than 18 years of not using one. I lost my leg left leg AK when I was 24 years old, and I am 50 right now. I stopped using my leg since the technology in my country was not very good and the want that existed was very expensive also; my first prosthetic knee was practical just a hinge with a pivot on the knee. Since I was very young it was ok for me I was able to do all kinds of works ( driving tractors, work on boats ) but it broke and I was not able to buy another one. Then a friend recently help me to get another leg , this time a good one, and I am walking again in my two legs; it is more challenging now than 20 years ago, but this time I will not stop. Your videos inspire me to keep working hard to improve my gait and do more things every day. Thanks, Chris!

[@theampedlife]

Hi Leonardo, thank you for your comments and kind words. I thinks its amazing that you are so determined to find your way again with a new prosthetic leg, Even more inspiring is how you did so much with such a basic setup in the early days. I feel incredibly spoilt and grateful to have such a good setup after reading your story. I’m real happy for you that you have this opportunity to walk again, and with your determination Im sure you’ll make it work well. Thank you for sharing your experience with us, please keep us posted with your progress - this journey of yours inspires me and will motivate others to keep on trying to be active amputees. I wish you all the best - you really deserve to walk well after all the years of struggles! I respect your commitment.

[@leonardogaytan3219]

@@theampedlife Thanks Chris!!

[@DonaMccarthy]

Thanks for the wonderful share Leonardo. Your have inspired me to keep moving forward. I am nearly 64 and have been so active my whole life and feeling very down about my restrictions even with a well fit below the knee prosthesis. So onward I go!!

[@leonardogaytan3219]

@@DonaMccarthy Good for you Dona , dont stop keep going and you will suceed.🙂

[@ipswichfinance]

Good to hear from you again chris. You demonstrate a deep understanding of our condition and also yourself in this video which is thought provoking and informative. Any disability is hard to accept mentally as well as the physical part and yes we are all on our separate and unique journey - looking forward to hearing the news you mention ! With kind regards

[@theampedlife]

Hi Fred, thanks for joining the conversation again, always good to hear from you. I completely agree, I think it's so important that the uniqueness of each persons journey is acknowledged and respected. A combination of our condition, and the overall philosophical perspective of the human condition, makes this an interesting point of discussion. It would be so great to have this talk in a room full of amputees to try out our thoughts and connect on shared experiences. All the best.

[@velimbatha992]

Comparison is a thief of Joy. If you keep looking at what the next person has, you will hinder your own progress. Everyone’s journey is different. Everyone’s opportunities are different. I get that a lot. “It’s easy for you to go up mountains because you’re amputated below the knee”. That used to piss me off. But until I realized that we are all going through our individual journeys at our own pace. That’s where my passion for amputee hikes was ignited. You’re only as limited as you think you are

[@theampedlife]

What a great saying. We are all different with our own journeys, I learnt that over many years, still do. Thanks Veli 🙏

[@fashionablyfakeinga6732]

so true! well said.

[@heleneolivier630]

You are so right. Never compare your situation. Maybe you feel superior. Or inferior. Just be yourself. Amputee or not. Life is a roller coaster. Hold on tight. It could be a joy ride. One way or the.other. It is up to each person to make the choice. It takes a clear mind belief in yourself and joy of appreciating the good in life. One important thing: avoid.negative people. Best to all you courageous amputees.

[@Oneleggedninja]

Thank you for this video. I’m a right aka and I had a tendon release surgery on my sound leg so that the mobility in it is limited. I routinely feel myself comparing my progress to other amputees and wishing I could be a below knee amputee because then life would be “easier”. I realize that sort of thinking is not productive and my aim should be to be as mobile as possible in my current situation, rather than comparing myself to others.

[@theampedlife]

Hi Devon, thank you for the message, and for sharing something so personal. It's so serendipitous that you sent this today, considering an experience I had late this afternoon. I think your thoughts are entirely understandable - to want to be more mobile is such an ever present part of an amputee's life. Certainly it is something I think about a lot. My way of dealing with it is to do as you say - I try to do the best with what I have, and let go of the rest, without coming down on myself for wanting a little more. The small improvements keeps me going, my "motto" is 'every day gets a little closer to being the best I can with what I have'. And I think that is good enough. A week ago I took the leap and picked up a mountain e-bike. Today I went for a ride in the mountains, nothing too rad, and had so much fun, as much as an amputee can have I think. I was watching the other riders do jumps, skids and other fun looking stuff I can't do, but felt such peace for just being there, doing my bit. Comparing made me unhappy, but trying to be a little better than I was last week creates contentment. All the best with everything, I hope you feel at peace with who you are, with you given abilities and limitations. We do the best we can - it's more than good enough. Take care

[@theampedlife]

PS I started doing live streaming a few months ago, discussing amputee life with real time comments and q&a with the subscribers. It would be great if you could join us next time. If you don't mind I would love to use your comment today as a topic of discussion, as so many struggle with these thoughts. Hope to see you there!

[@Oneleggedninja]

@@theampedlife Thank you so much for responding to my comment, I think I’m going to steal your motto! Have a great day! And yes please use my comments!

[@theampedlife]

@@Oneleggedninja You're welcome Devon, if it is helpful i'll be happy for you 🙂

[@rexburruss2835]

Hang in there, friend! I always stop folks when they compare their challenges to mine or others, discounting their own. I remind them that there is no competition but that we are all battling our own wars. Frankly, I find your clips fantastic!

[@theampedlife]

Hi Rex, thanks for your thoughts and comment. I agree, we’re in this together, it makes us all stronger and improves our lives. Please keep on posting, somewhere someone is learning form your experiences too 🙏👍

[@hansmiller664]

Hello Rex.! Isn't it weird, that people try to compare their own diseases, "handicaps" or so and infinitum? And whenever one listens, they are always either older, more sick, but in EVERY CASE worse! I can tell by personal experience, after having testicle cancer, an elderly dame, a workmate, told me she had an "Anorysma" in her brain Venes since she was 19. That woman retired at the age of 66 (!!!) At least 5 times a day she took her pills, and was a very quick, fit and strong women. Is there a kind of VANITY or, as you and Chris mentioned, a Competition who is MORE sick? How's about complaining only in case of emergency? To that person, whose profession it is, to take care? Doctors, Surgeons and last, but DEFINITELY NOT LEAST, Nurses! Btw. At the age of 60 I probably will face an above knee amputation. (Can handle that, after they cut my ball ... Sorry!) Thank you very much for your comment here! STAY IN GOOD HEALTH, HOWEVER!🤝

[@rexburruss2835]

@@hansmiller664 I or

[@rexburruss2835]

I prefer to present myself as strong and capable. When others hear of my history, they tend to compare their own, often diminishing the significance of their challenges. We all get our portion of problems. I hate comparing.

[@theampedlife]

@@rexburruss2835 I completely agree Rex, thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@DonaMccarthy]

Hi Chris, I feel that the way that you approached the response was very honest also quite helpful for others to (hopefully) begin to understand that suffering is very personal and unique experience for everyone. Thanks for putting yourself out their in this way.

[@theampedlife]

Thanks Donna, this is a very kind, supportive message. I appreciate you, and your support and participation in our conversations.

[@velimbatha992]

If you say I can’t run because I don’t have knee. You’re right. Also, if you say. Me being amputated through the hip isn’t going to stop me from running. YOU’RE ALSO RIGHT. It’s all in what you believe. Never underestimate that.

[@theampedlife]

You’re the living proof Veli, thanks for sharing your thoughts. You have such a wealth of experience in being an amputee, please keep up the comments ans suggestions for all to learn from. Thanks my friend 👍

[@dlvb7890]

Your response to the man was amazing! Such a wonderful reply!

[@theampedlife]

@@dlvb7890 Hi Donna, thank you for your kind words.

[@ipswichfinance]

Chris the limbless group in england are holding zoom meetings which i am finding really useful - although i am an ‘old’ amp i was really pleased when this happened during one meeting. A young amp of 16 joined the group and during conversation mentioned he was really looking forward to his 18 birthday so he could get his driving licence - straightaway another member answered him to tell him that as a disabled person he could apply for and obtain a driving licence at age 16. The boy was obviously delighted with this news and just shows the value of such meetings. The limbless group are holding these open to all in england what a great idea!!

[@theampedlife]

Hi Fred, thanks for sharing this, that is such an amazing story with such a great outcome for the young guy. Also really good to know this information. I'm kinda jealous that you guys have this group - its such a cool idea. You've encouraged me to do something similar here - thanks mate!

[@heleneolivier630]

You go Chris. Your attitude so positive. I think to be born disabled. Just go on finding your way in your in your own unique way. to oose sight hearing

[@theampedlife]

Thanks mom, your support is a big part of my positive approach xx

[@theDanielTruth]

Hey Chris, another great video. I hear what you're saying and understand the reason behind it. I've got to add though, I'm a man and I compare everything all the time eg. is my bike faster, can my plane fly higher, can I hold my breath longer, can I climb higher etc. etc. I'll be comparing my disability with others' too :-) regardless I'll be punching life full on all the time.

[@RebelCowboysRVs]

I have always been of the opinion that by being disabled my whole life, I am better off than someone who is in the same shape but became that way later in life. They are having to learn things as an adult when it's harder to learn, that I figured out as a baby when it was easy to learn. That's the only comparison I do.

[@theampedlife]

Hi, thanks for the comment! I tend to identify and agree with you, and heard others say something similar. I know someone who lost her eyesight and believes that being born without would have made life easier, that losing sight at late 30's was very challenging, and remains as the person knows exactly what they have lost. I think that in a way its something we all do, to compare sometimes, as long as no one gets hurt I feel its completely understandable. In the end we are all different and will have diverging views on this, I respect everyone's experience as their own. Thanks for watching!

[@hansmiller664]

Dear Chris. I am very grateful for your outstanding channel! I'm a follower since last year. (I think...🤔) I am a German guy, WAITING for, that my Doctor's finally decide to amputate ... another, long story! The words / expressions "disabled" or "handicapped" should be thought over several times. You mentioned it in this video. Any person, who is in a situation that occurs a different state of daily life challenge, is NOT DISABLED! One is ABLE, but in a different way! You mentioned someone blind, someone lost diverse limbs, paraplegic people, a.s.o. We hopefully all agree that, if life gives you THAT punch of any loss, you are, for a certain time not able. You will need help and shouldn't shy away to ask for. NOT AT ALL!!! There is nothing to be ashamed of !!! If you can AFFORD it, in case there is no more Family or Friends around! Which is another LOOONG story! But one should always rely on the hidden powers, a body reveals, to accommodate a new situation. Nerves, SENSES, (and surely skin) will develop a new way of reception. Blind and/or deaf people might develop an outrageous sense of reception, we "normal" humans will never have the chance to get Paraplegics, YES, they can have a good sex life and children! Most people on the street who meet someone using a wheelchair, Blindstick, crutches or any obviously "disabled" person, are not only scared. (Because they are afraid, it also could happen to them) But they are afraid to be UNABLE (disabled!!!) to help in a situation, when needed. It's not so difficult to lead a blind person to the right track in a train station and to get the right train. A girl struggling with a wheelchair to get into a bus... ask her and get the grips, she only needs a good push or lift! And is it so embarrassing to help up someone in a crowded midtown area, when he/she fell down with an artificial leg? Is all this so difficult? Why are people afraid of this? I am talking about daily life situations. Not rehab or foundations meetings My situation at the age of 60 is quite rare. No more family, (friends...???) And I am not RICH! The opposite... That is, why I am SO GRATEFUL to your encouraging channel. It makes me being less SCARED! THANK YOU!🍀🙏

[@theampedlife]

Guten tag Hans! Thank you so much for you long, thought provoking message - there is a lot to think about and agree with in what you said. I am really grateful to be able to be a support to you, it is heartwarming to know that someone across the world is connecting with me, and the other people in this community. Yes, the body adapts in amazing ways, and the human spirit is incredible. I have found that a combination of gratitude, curiosity, connection, trust, and intention goes a very, very long way to healing. I am sorry to hear that you have no more family to turn too, but I sincerely hope that you feel you have found friends in this community, and in our communication. You are indeed rich in gratitude and warmth, I too feel encouraged by your reaching out and sharing what's on you mind and in your heart. Thank you, I truly feel touched by what you said and I hope that future videos help to lessen the fear even more. The opposite of fear is connection, I believe this, and I hope that you experience this too. Much care from South Africa ☀️🙏

[@hansmiller664]

@@theampedlife Dear Mr Chris! 😜 Thank you VERY much for your response! There was also another from Rex(?) a crisscross answering situation 4 days ago? Although I figured out how to sample stuff here on YT, I am actually a complete NONLINER. That means, I never had to use a "Computer" at work. I am a Tailor, I only use Google for some research. Excel, Pixel and all these other words used today in internet stuff/business are not for me. I DO have to train it though, otherwise my Generation, and surely older ones, will not survive! I went to a different direction. I apologize. My Doctor's (2 at a time!) either can't or won't decide for that surgery. I live in Cologne, Western Germany. A town with still now at a very high Covid rate. In normal times, it wouldn't be so difficult. But I understand, that the health system is burning up, even in Germany. Dear Mr. Chris! If it wouldn't be to annoying, I would appreciate to stay in contact here. But it might be very rare, because of my personal situation ... PLEASE, go on giving your very PRECIOUS SUPPORT! I am still deadly, desperately scared from time to time but even reading comments of your followers, is uprising. THANK YOU🙏🎖️🍀 ALL MY BEST WISHES TO YOU AND YOUR HOMELAND! SOUTH AFRICA! 🌹 By heart!

[@theampedlife]

@@hansmiller664 Thanks Hans - there will be many more video's to come. Please keep on sharing your thoughts with all of us - it all helps to support someone who needs help. Thanks!

[@hettievanjaarsveld6460]

DankieChris....jy gee waardevolle read en jy word waardeer vir Wie jy is ...groete Hettie

[@theampedlife]

Baie dankie Hettie, ek het 'n ander boodskap ook gestuur aan jou in die video kommentaar area, hoop jy het dit gesien. Groete!

[@sonugul5466]

Sir I waiting for ur reply for humanity help . I'm sitting in home last 8 months

[@hettievanjaarsveld6460]

Dankie Chris.....goeie raad altyd en jy word waardeer vir Wie jy is Groete Hettie

[@theampedlife]

Hallo Hettie, baie dankie vir jou gawe boodskap. Dit word waardeer en motiveer my om meer video's te maak. Ek doen nou "live streams", gewoonlik op Sondag middae 3nm, dit sal lekker wees om jou daar te hê. Die deelnemers kan vrae vra in die kommentaar seksie wat ons dan bepreek, ek glo dat jy dit sal geniet en hopelik kan deelneem daaraan. Hoop ek sien jou daar!

[@dynacoh3956]

I dont know, I have this problem too. I always compare myself to others. I always make it a positive situation though; I realized I can now make fun of Amputee people/cancer people/ maybe even special education people.... maybe not the Special Education people but I know the other two I can because I have it.

[@theampedlife]

Hi, thanks for this message, and for watching the video. I think comparing is quite understandable and even natural for us to do, as long as its not offensive or it undermined confidence. Being able to find humour in our struggles is so helpful, being able o laugh at myself makes life easier sometimes. I'm sorry to hear about the cancer, I hope you're OK and that there are good things to come for you. Best wishes from Africa!

[@dynacoh3956]

@@theampedlife Holy shit. You're in africa goddman. Hawaii...im in Hawaii

[@jalowery1246]

Hey Chris! Good to see you again bro! Soooo what about this new thing? I know you said you can't discuss it right now but can we get a hint? You can't leave us hanging like that...how about a clue as to when this new info can be shared? Throw this old dog a bone my man! 😁

[@theampedlife]

Haha 😂, I was as curious as you sound when I heard about it. Please don’t have extreme expectations, but some new ans improved tech on the way. The moment I’m allowed to hint I will 👍

[@gylgamesh5]

I am a new amputee. I did not find that you find that you compared any of your disabilities. I look to you to talk about being an amputee, and that’s what you do.

[@theampedlife]

Thanks for your kind message, I appreciate your feedback. I hope your amputee experience is going OK, please keep in touch, and hope to see you when we go live streaming soon!

[@sonugul5466]

Sir can u send the knee joint or foot for me I have no money plz and me I will send u my address knee joint or foot u use not new plzz help me

[@theampedlife]

Hi Sonu, where are you from my friend?

[@sonugul5466]

The Dollar prize in our country is very high Soo I cannot use the alements u is my last hope

[@theampedlife]

Hope things work out for you mate, never stop trying, at some point something will come your way. All the best