Walking into a hospital & leaving as an amputee: my amputation story [CC]

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Three years after losing my leg, here's the FULL story of how I became an #Amputee (twice)!
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Jo Beckwith
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MY STORY //
Fourteen years of pain and failed ankle surgeries brought me to 2018, when I made the difficult decision to become a twenty-seven-year-old below-the-knee elective amputee. This channel has documented my journey adjusting to life with a visible disability as an amputee, and continues to be a haven to discuss physical and mental health!
MY PROSTHETIC LEG:
I use the Ossur ProFlex XC Torsion foot/ankle with a direct socket with passive vaccum suction.
MY AMPUTATION STORY:
Why Did I Lose My Leg? • HOW I BECAME AN AMPUTE...
How I Said Goodbye To My Leg: • COME WITH ME ON A GOOD...
Seeing My Amputated Leg for the First Time: • Seeing my amputated le...
Day in the Life of an Amputee: • A Day in the Life of a...
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The music contained in this video can be found at Artist.io - artlist.io/Jordan-293378
The End Credit music is “Summer Snow” by Low Light/Nick Kingswell
Thank you so much for listening - you make a real difference in my life, you enable me to be able to do what I love, and I am beyond grateful!
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[@FootlessJo]

Thank you so much for listening to my story, my lovely new and old friends! 💜

[@tieiatalks]

Thank you for sharing your story!

[@shrimpshromp3594]

Just found your channel yesterday and this what you’ve been through is rough, great job on powering through and rising up 💖

[@IsabellaGrace2009]

Hi jo! I hope your day today is wonderful! - Bella your online friend

[@norrislavender-quit2802]

Heyyy I love watching you💜💜💜

[@mittenkitten89]

❤❤❤

[@secretzinthesnow4715]

I am an 11 year old amputee and it is very hard especially as a kid because I was born with a horrible problem in my right leg and both of my arms that caused me to have to get them amputated when I was 6 which was very hard because I needed to deal with walking out of their with no arms and only one leg. Your story and channel is very inspiring and helpful to me as a young amputee. Thank you.

[@sethwalker5867]

Damn. In the future prosthetics will be extremely advanced. U are very young so u just gotta wait

[@pianooooo11]

@@sethwalker5867 I really hope there is, I want to see this happen in the future

[@randyjon224]

God bless you child, stay strong and keep the faith.

[@royaletulips7931]

I-how do you even function( no offense)

[@JohnGalt916]

Well kiddo, I want to be sweet and motivational but anytime I do that I sound rude. So I'll just say this. I never met a cool, fun, or interesting person who didn't have struggles. So I'm willing to bet you're the coolest kid in your class.

[@alexy750]

The video of you crossing the finish line into your dad's arms never fails to make me emotional. So proud of you Jo! Sending positive vibes from Canada xx

[@jordiflower]

💯

[@hisweethearts18]

So true

[@nataliegail5958]

Same

[@JohnGalt916]

I read this when I started the video. I was like "pffft women". Get to that part then I'm like "why are my eyes sweating".

[@icecream_andcookies]

Crying right along with you lol!! 😭✨❤️❤️

[@fedes9626]

When I was 5, I was run over by a car. My right leg broke in half and I lost a lost of blood, I was taken to a small clinic and waited there 1 to 2 hours for the ambulance to pick me up. The hospital personnel was on strike so my surgery was done by students. It all turned ok, I never had any real problem after the third surgery. After hearing your story I realized how lucky I was.

[@I.forg0r_11]

OOF that sounds so painful!!! I’m so sorry 😣

[@zkerrrr]

dam that's painful

[@zkerrrr]

I hope everything is better now

[@violet_rush]

Oh my gosh that sounds horrible especially as a child!

[@myiaalrexolodgsh]

I feel so sorry for u

[@gunnystrangeluck]

Hello I'm a fellow amputee. I would just like to take the time to thank you. I became a bk right leg a year ago. I've been in denial and ashamed I was a Marine. Well I'll always be a Marine. I have refused to show any emotion or acceptance until I found your videos. It just all hit me and I'm actually crying so hard I can't believe this. I'm finally starting to deal with this. you will always have a spot in this old Marines heart. I now have a goal to run the Marine corps marathon. I have to end this post till I can correct this major tear duct malfunction. Thank You Semper Fi

[@Carla_314]

Than you for your service!

[@gunnystrangeluck]

Your very welcome and Thank you for your tax dollars

[@amybrown4985]

Thank you, Sir.❤

[@CajunReaper95]

while this isn't the same thats how i was when i medically needed my top teeth removed and some of my bottom now i have to get the rest removed!

[@kristinaadams2745]

You let them eyes rain🕊️gotta feel it to heal it

[@Dukedogdog]

A friend in high school had a missing leg and he alway said "I lost my leg to a bear. He ate my leg so I ate his" as his way of making light of the fact that he had serious health issues and it kept him from constantly feeling down. Sometimes it's the little jokes we need

[@novanettle7497]

My friend has a really big, bright purple mark on his forearm and I have heard him tell other people so many stories of it's origin. It's a dog bite that got really infected. He narrowly escaped a house fire. A tattoo gone wrong. Scalded his arm with boiling water when he was a kid. It's just a birthmark. He just likes telling stories 😅 he mostly confess at the end of the stories though, but sometimes he forgets 😌

[@schmid1.079]

Reminds me of a disabled friend of mine who also jokes whenever someone asks what happened. His favourite is the classic "should have seen the other guy."

[@makingtechsense126]

There is nothing like a little fun to deal with pain. I have a long scar on my left side from my brother pushing me into a chair when I was like five or six. It was a big cut and the scar was very obvious. I would tell people I got it in a knife fight. It was more fun than telling them I was pushed into a chair that had sharp metal poking out of it.

[@jcjs33]

hang in there...wow...thanks for sharing...

[@Done478]

I remember how many people responded to me in a wheelchair by asking if I felt confined. No, being unable to walk more than a couple steps without agony was confining. Being in a wheelchair was freedom from the pain and exhaustion. Love getting to know you.

[@hazeld8016]

I used a wheelchair for 9 months before getting my mobility scooter and now i almost never need it which is amazing but i totally related to her saying that you love your mobility aid but you hate it because it's a physical representation of how you'll be like this forever. Even still, I'll always remember the feeling of getting in my mobility scooter for the first time and being able to zoom around the place. I hadn't been able to do that in so long. I think I've found that if a wheelchair or mobility aid is exciting because it'll give you more freedom, you need it

[@bendeywendy8065]

This attitude is just *mwah* chefs kiss. Using a mobility aid of any kind isn't giving up, it isn't confining. It's the opposite! A wheelchair, scooter, walking frame, crutches or walking stick - they just enable us to do MORE. It's not brave to refuse the help they provide and it's not giving in to use them

[@mooney9046]

That's amazing. Thank you for sharing your experience using a wheelchair.

[@MelanieWeed77]

I'm at that point in my life where being in a wheelchair has become a necessity. I felt like I was giving up at 1st. But the amount of pain I'm in from standing is unimaginable. I have RA on top of other health issues. I was diagnosed in my early 30s with RA, COPD & CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE . I was told I wouldn't live to see 45. But I will soon be 47. My faith and family have helped me stay positive and I know everything happens for a reason.

[@Done478]

@@MelanieWeed77 I'm glad you are still here, too. 😁 The carpenter doesn't resent his hammer because he can't use his hand to drive a nail. I am a big fan of using the proper tool. You will find the work is so much easier and it's easier to do it well. That's true whether you are hanging a frame or living your life. You don't need anyone's permission to be your super own hero.😊❤️♥️

[@VaelynTV]

Your dog totally sensed before you did that this was going to be an emotional conversation and came to support you through it. Dogs are fabulous. ❤ Loved hearing you tell your story, great job on overcoming it all and living life the way you want to.

[@piggyx4717]

She’s definitely right when she says that you dont want other doctors to be interested in your condition, here’s my story if you want to read! ^-^ (Its WAY longer than I thought it would be Im sorryyy) In November of 2019 I got sick with flu like symptoms. Because it was flu season I thought nothing of it and did my schooling from home when I was feeling worse. I had many concerts and things to do at school and I was preparing for a trip to a special program for a week at the end of the month. So I rested when I could but continued to keep attending and keeping up in school so I wouldnt fall behind the week I was away. I left for the week to Ottawa, Canada (I live in BC so pretty far away) and as the week went on I could barely do anything with the rest of the kids. I couldnt eat and I was exhausted and wanted to sleep constantly. The nurse would give me pain killers to help but nothing really would. It was finally time to go home but I still had 3 flights to take. I got to the airport and the flight attendants almost didnt let me on the plane to go home since they saw that I was sick and might be contagious. Luckily they allowed me to get on. I don’t remember most of the flights, just that I was very sick. I finally made it home and my parents were there to pick me up. I went home and fell asleep but woke up with an immense pain in my lower back. I was able to wake my dad up and he took me to the hospital. We got to the emergency room and they got me into a room so the doctor could ask me questions about what was happening. Many doctors and nurses came in and asked me the same questions. They sent me for x-rays and ultrasounds trying to figure out what was happening. By the end of the night they had taken so much blood and done so many tests yet they still didnt know what was wrong with me. They admitted me into the hospital that night. The next few days were a blur. I remember being put on morphine because I was in so much pain. I was then ambulanced to a special children’s hospital since I was still 16. I went through surgery where they removed 4L of fluid from my lungs (4 big bottles of pop) and was fun in the Intensive Care Unit for 24 hours. I ended up being in the hospital for the month of December 2019. I had found out that my kidneys had failed due to an unknown cause and I had to be on dialysis. So many doctors and specialists came in and asked me the same questions. In the end I never found out what it was. It took 2 years but I am now fully recovered from my freak accident. It’s insane how one little moment can change your entire life. I always found it easy to smile during this time, because my family and friends were supporting me the entire time. Thank you for being so positive and showing the amazing things you can do through hard work and commitment. 💗

[@eddiemunson7570]

Omg I read the whole thing I’m so glad you’re better now!

[@jellyfishcat1728]

So glad ur better stay strong!❤️❤️

[@squarepotatoes]

Could it have been complications due to covid do they think? My SO got sick with covid before they knew what it was in November 2019, and the early cases were in October My friend's kidneys shut down due to complications and almost same exact story, right down to the increasing pain and fatigue- but hers were complications due to covid Idk why I'm really commenting this other than it shocked me the date on it cuz it felt like I was reading her story which just happened 2022

[@BattleDroid0402]

My mother was terminally on Dialysis and I know the process is extremely difficult, however this was five+ years ago. I am glad you are better; how is the process now if you don’t mind me asking?

[@anayarey]

That sounds very much like something I had when I was a child. It was called EHEC with some syndrome I don't remember.

[@donaldbarrett2267]

In June of 2019, I had an amputation below the knee on my left leg. To keep a positive attitude, I came up with some humor. I told the nurses that I was told that due to some bone infection in my ankle, some bone would have to have be removed. I told them when I came to, they had taken a whole foot (double meaning). I had a skin graft on my right foot that looked like a shark bite. I started telling people I was attacked by a shark in a local lake. When the nurses said they were doing something to my right foot, I said that was my left foot, when they corrected me, I said that was the only foot I had left.

[@silasmacabre]

That's pretty cool honestly through your very strong to go through that. I hope you have a good day today and always.

[@Mtz2604]

Taking things with humor and even laugh from our own situations is a gift. I remember when I was hospitalized for the first time in a psych ward due suicidal ideation with a plan about to be but I stopped before buying what I needed to carry out the deed and look out for help. One more time, just once more, due the immense love for my husband, my fur babies and my family. That "of you don't love yourself you can't love anyone else" BS is an absolute BS. I'm able to love the people I do with such intensity but I've never loved myself. I have my dignity and self respect because I learn it. But I never learned to love myself as much as I need to. So at the hospital some patients and me pranked the nurses for a week and they thought we were in a shared psychotic non violent episode. At the end of the week I couldn't help but to tell the head nurse (one of the best people I've ever met) that everything was a joke. We denied any question or answer any detail about the "loony" time we faked during our daily appointments with our psychiatrists and therapists. Then when I told the secret everyone laugh and I received a tiny lecture from my doc but it was damn Holy week!! We were absolutely bored. We acted out only at our tea/coffee time for half hour. Past that time (that I was all the time in charge of the scene) I gave the signal and everything was back to normal. I was a month hospitalized. I've been hospitalized 2 times in total and each time a month. The second didn't have such pranks because we were quite relaxed and I was allowed to read all I wanted and we had occupational therapy too. Psychiatric humor is kinda acid and dark but we all respect what we're going through and joke about it without targeting anyone. We joke about our own situations and the general stereotypes people have. But is awesome to crack a black psych humor joke with a doc or a nurse or even ypur therapist and see them laugh with you, because they're humans too. I loved your story!

[@kiddwentcrazy]

@cewla others… as in… PLURAL?? 😰😰😰😱😱 /j

[@Gumbier_Than]

I'm glad you're alive and kicking (no pun intended). My late aunt was a double amputee below the knees. She and her son were always butting heads when I visited them. She also had this brass sword in the corner of her dining room. Four year old me thought he cut her legs off in a rage, my eldest sister nearly wet herself upon hearing this as she recalled that brass sword. My aunt actually lost her legs from a gangrenous infection due to diabetes. ☹️

[@relentlessrhythm2774]

I'm glad you kept a good attitude!

[@Mtz2604]

This story is inspiring. Not because she went through this, it wasn't a choice basically. The inspiring message here is that when you have this difficult situations in your life you have 3 options: 1. Take the hard decision and then coming in terms with it, being bitter years and years to find out that carrying on with the bitterness, sadness and impotence was worse than the injury you survived. 2. Taking or not the hard decision, live with self pity and like the first option, finding out the years you lost. 3. Taking the hard decision, own the situation, give chance to your body, mind and heart to heal. Understand why this was the best option for your case and remember it each time you need to. Claim back as much as you can from your accident, injury or what lead to the amputation and go with it. In the future you'll find out you can claim more and more. Being strong and brave isn't just not feeling fear, impotence, not being tired, confused, frustrated, sad, angry and self conscious about your situation. All that is natural and is the healthiest way to allow yourself to process all this emotions and thoughts. Have questions, finding answers and coming to terms with yourself. The brave and strong part is to go through it despite all the things that can freeze you. And that's what Jo did.

[@kortneykennedy7303]

Do you have a massage toy for your body down that so you can use it down that

[@Mtz2604]

@@kortneykennedy7303 WTF

[@elisesmith3596]

As a trauma/orthopaedics nurse unfortunately I’ve seen this happen to many people. I’ve subscribed to your channel to help understand my patients mindset a bit more. As someone with a non physical disability I’m able to relate to my patients in some ways but it’s great to be able to hear from someone who is not in the fresh moment of having this traumatic event happen. Thanks for the insight!

[@KarolinaPietryka]

Thank you for everything you do! ♥️

[@bobothefool3037]

Thank you so much for trying to educate yourself on your patients' life experiences! A lot of medical professionals don't do this, and the ones that make the extra effort to are the kind of people we need in the health field.

[@camillepepin8512]

"You never want to impress doctor" Yeah I know. I was wrongly diagnose with streptococus in my throat and was given antibiotics. The next day my face was red and swollen and I looked like a raccoon the skin around my eyes was the only part left alone and still white. The rest of my body was covered in itchy lumps and I mean COVERED. It wasn't one big plaque, it was thousands of small very red soft bumps. Went to the ER, people assumed it was an allergic reaction to the antobiotics but, lucky me ONE doctor was suspicious upon hearing my story and went to look at me. And he said, and I quote : "today is your lucky day. I am a specialist in your condition and I have just returned yesterday from a conference explaining what your condition is. This is no allergic reaction. You have Gianotti Crosti". Turns out I had mononucleosis, and if you take antibiotics while having mono, well this reaction occurs. But I was a pretty bad case. He asked if he could take pictures of me to show other doctors and possibly in other conferences... I accepted because, why not turn this shitty situation into something useful for someone. I still laugh about the whole thing today. I have the art of teaching my parents new medical things... By experiencing them

[@HkFinn83]

Gianotti Crosti sounds kinda glamorous, but I bet it wasn’t like that at all. I bet it was bad. Because you were sick! Glad you’re better now.

[@jodivandyk3649]

This is VERY interesting! The same thing happened to me once, but I was told I was allergic to penicillin! I've taken amoxicillin ever since.

[@camillepepin8512]

@@jodivandyk3649 I was allergic to penicilin as a kid but grew out of it. So of course when I took antibiotic derived from penicillin and I reacted this way the first suspect was allergies. I was SO lucky that doctor was there. 3 months later I was still a messy sleepy potato but no more rash. Mononucleosis sucks! Funny thing, in my country it's called the kissing disease because it spreads through saliva. But I never had a boyfriend at the time. I just caught mononucleosis on my own, like a big girl!

[@frickfrack7075]

I am going through "impressing doctors" right now lol i except I wouldn't say impress, I'd say "stumped". I have a mass near my spine,(between L5 and S1 for reference) but they don't know what it is. I have been having a massive amount of pain, (to the point of not being able to walk at times) and thought it may be a herniated disc. But when I had the MRI they noticed something other than the herniated disc. They originally thought it was an abscess but my labs prove otherwise. I've had every imaging test you can think of. And when the infectious disease dr asked the radiologist if she could just go in and drain it, they said, "absolutely not!". So now I'm at home (thankful to not be in the hospital doing what I'm going in the comfort of my home) waiting to see a neurosurgeon so that maybe they can figure out what's going on, and hopefully remove it. I'm in a great deal of pain, but am hopeful it will be resolved soon. I'm 33 and I've never had my body fail me before. This experience has really truly humbled me to appreciate my body and what it does for me.

[@aurograce2983]

@@frickfrack7075 I’ll keep you in prayer and I hope everything goes well for you

[@AsiaAsiaJa]

When I was 5 and lying in the hospital with brain inflammation I nearly died from, I remember swarms of doctors and medical students coming in to inspect my case because nobody could figure out whether my illness was bacterial or virus-caused, and they were all like ooooh this is an unique case! such a great opportunity to study! In short, you *really* don't want to impress doctors with your screening results lmaoo

[@Jemiscool123ABC]

Something like that happend to me when I was 3 but I hit my head on something and when I got rushed my skin got pushed into my skull area doctors were like grabbing books and then came back in my room 40 minutes later from what 8 headed I had to get surgery to fix it but I got a lolipop after so it was worth it

[@REDARROW_A_Personal]

When I was about Primary School Age my sister dropped a weighted toy in my mouth and chipped one of my two front teeth. I ended up going to the dentist and was told to go to a dental hospital. A few weeks later I was in the dental hospital to get a crown and a diffrent consultant came to do the procedure than the one we had seen before as he was covering. He then asked were the piece of tooth was, so my dad had to bring the piece that we kept in a tooth jar. Suffice to say the reason for this was this dentist had some students and he chose me to be his example to show his students on sticking in a piece of tooth. It was a fun expirence having about 5 people looking into my dry mouth, which they had to keep dry to make sure it would work properly. Altogether I was really greatful to have that tooth back in and it's still there.

[@magnusbane420]

I read on Reddit about a person whose stomach somehow formed a wall around his appendics and when he got appendicitis he apparently had it for DAYS because he wasn't in a horrible amount of pain and things seemed alright. That's the only time I imagine it's good to have every doctor in the hospital look at your scan, when they're like "How are you alive?!"

[@Itried20takennames]

As someone who used to be one of those medical students or resident doctors…you are right, and there is a fine line between staff education and having 17 people crowd around your hospital bed. I would say though, it’s not done because of “this is intellectually fascinating, let’s study” but because the more a doc can see/learn in training, the better for both them and future patients - and more want to see the rarer conditions. No one wants to bother patients or make them feel on display, but likewise no one wants their own doc say “I think you have condition xx, but not totally sure…I have never seen a case of it irl before.”

[@tsurugizaki]

When I was 10 I had a moment where I stopped breathing and had to go to hospital. I remember tons of doctors coming in to see me and examine me, and I have no idea what most of them even did. Perhaps some of them were just there to observe, haha. It turned out that I had a rare infection of two viruses at once, though unfortunately I don't remember which ones.

[@nocturnechanson]

My grandmother was probably the toughest person I’ve ever known. My grandfather passed away fairly young at forty. When my father was a teenager she lost her leg to cancer. She raised a family as a single mother and an amputee in the 1940’s and I can only imagine that took a lot of fortitude. 😃

[@normalhuman9878]

Your grandma was a badass

[@laid07]

If I were to ever lose a limb larger than my small toe, or lose the usage of any limb larger than my small toe, I am going off a bridge, or building.

[@miketheike1231onroblox.]

@@laid07what abt toes we dont need them

[@laid07]

@@miketheike1231onroblox. They are used for balance.

[@miketheike1231onroblox.]

@@laid07 we dont need them anymore the weight shofted to middle

[@litaperry2524]

I am the wife of a recent amputee and I am very encouraged by this video sharing your amputation story I really think you are brave and an inspiration to other amputees. My husband is 72 years old and tried to save his foot since 2016 and has been wheelchair bound he finally got into a life or death situation with his foot due to infection and a heart attack all in one week and with support from family and friends went forward with his surgery. He came through victoriously and is being fit for his prosthetic he had his first casting last week and is going to his 3rd appointment of the fitting process. He is so excited that he has hope of walking again and you gave him hope that he too will walk soon we are hoping for Christmas as his goal. I miss being able to say hey let’s go for a walk or dance or even out to dinner because he hated to go in his wheelchair to any place so thank you Jo for sharing it means a lot to this community.

[@chysmallwood2238]

Please oh please update everyone here about him! I pray he will be able to walk again by Christmas! That would be such a blessing and amazing Christmas gift. The best Christmas gift to dance again with your husband! Lots of healing prayers! Please let us know how it goes and if he is doing really good!!! Blessed be

[@Nuxzy_]

I hope your husband was able to reach his goal! ♥

[@alexanderschuster2585]

Can I be honest? For the first five minutes, I wondered why Jo only revealed a face of unrelenting enthusiasm towards her viewers. I was also expecting accompanying levels of sadness, poignancy and frustration at all that she had lost. But I would imagine Jo has experienced all those emotions many times over in her own private world. In the end, after watching the video in its entirety, you realise that Jo is an upbeat person and one of her strongest qualities is to triumph over adversity. So now I understand why the outward persona she projects to the world is overwhelmingly positive.

[@FootlessJo]

Hey Alexander! I wanted to thank you - so much - for this comment. The video I am releasing in a few hours actually features your comment (in a very positive way). I appreciate your honesty and your super kind words! ❤️

[@harperbell8576]

Alexander you seem like an amazing person so thank you for being a good person in the world

[@clockspeed1836]

Positivity!

[@davidschofield7351]

I am not a physical amputee, but I find your videos inspirational to me. I had 2 MAJOR brain surgeries 3 months apart in 1983, and lost a significant portion of my memory capacity in the process. I’m familiar with the relearning process, just from a different angle. Please keep posting about your journey.

[@pyra9345]

Oh.What is it like?

[@leftysheppey]

I'm sorry to hear that :( I'm currently taking medication which affects my short term memory and I can't stand it, but I know it's only a temporary thing. I couldn't imagine trying to live my life like that

[@stealthyplays4519]

you’re strong man

[@msjkramey]

It's crazy what you take for granted until it's gone. I'm in the process of relearning how to walk right now and it definitely is emotional even though I still have both my legs and all that. I'm so thankful to everyone who's helped me so far

[@yalldontme.......251]

I was reeeeeally close to getting my leg amputated due to chronic ulcers...the pain was just absolutely excruciating, I was so ready to just go ahead and do it, the doctors were full on board to just cut it off, and I was so close, but I stuck it out another few months and it actually started healing.Its now healed ( brutally scarred, and extra sensitive to THE LEAST knock, scratch, anything.) but I still have it...u are sooooooo strong and amazingly happy and a pure inspiration to all of us, God bless beautiful lady ❤️❤️❤️

[@penultimateh766]

We're so privileged that you've chosen to share your story with us. All the best.

[@FootlessJo]

Aw what a kind comment (as always!)! Thank you!

[@disturbingbarneydeez]

So random but 69 likes

[@thedudebryan98]

So random but 699 likes

[@khushboogulati2130]

You're comment bright tears to my eyes, you're so kind

[@Dear-Rhiannon]

3:23 As soon as you start to begin talking about what happened Sophie comes. Dogs are so amazing, real guardians that soothe the heart. Thank you for sharing your story, you're amazing!

[@skatingfreak1670]

Take care of your pups as well as they take care of you. If they get sick don't wait. Get them help immediately. You don't know if hours later they'll be gone.

[@jefftitterington7600]

Sophie doesn't know how big she is - she thinks she's a lapdog!

[@ReasonMakes]

@@skatingfreak1670 Absolutely. They're members of the family.

[@mrinvader]

i think Jo's Sophie's hero!

[@thatHARVguy]

@@jefftitterington7600 All dogs think they're lapdogs. *looks at Fenrir*

[@iwishiwasinlondon]

I had a traumatic rock climbing accident a few years ago, had bilateral ankle fractures and have had numerous surgeries since then. Your story hit hard with me because I am currently sitting here with two fused ankles wondering what else I can do. Amputation feels like an out there option but I’m glad I found someone who was able to make that choice for themselves under similar circumstances stances to mine. Also, the part where you talked about running really got me tearing up. I currently consider it out of the question for me

[@curious.world_]

How about ankle replacement instead of fusion? I just learned about this, and also learned that it is not an option for everyone, but if it is an option, it’s the better one.

[@kortneykennedy7303]

Do you want to be friends with me on tex I'm a girl I'm 38 old I'm in a wheel chair my body hurts me every day so if I ask you too play with your body on tex

[@quelikingz]

After going through years of trying to find out what condition I had, diagnostics, biopsies, treatment and side effects of medication I came to the same conclusion "it's never gonna be the same again and it's always going to be different" it was such a hard thing to accept especially when doctors think that because your are young things should just work out. I feel you. I feel better but my mind is highly wired to be reactive to the "what if." Stay strong!

[@dashie_pink_slushie]

I was the first cancer patient that required an endoprosthetic surgery at a newly build hospital and doctors were SO excited about this whole thing, I had news reporters swarm my hospital room, saying just how unique this whole experience was (and how the turntables when they found out that they had fucked up in the most silly way possible by infecting my implant with the most ridiculous infection ever). Thankfully, I was a little kid at that time so I don't remember much of it unlike my mum, who was traumatised by this whole thing, but I do still get nightmares sometimes in which I'm chased by doctors because "there's something wrong with you" and where I feel like a guinea pig. Always end up waking up in cold sweat after those. So yeah, you never want to be a "uNiQuE cAsE".

[@metallsnubben]

"What fun to get to try this cool new treatment out... oopsie poopsie we screwed up cause we're not practiced in how to do this how silly"

[@user-jb1mb5xh9t]

my dad was one of the first people to trial a new type of skin cancer removal in 2001 and the video of his surgery is used in universities to this day! all he remembers is lights that were too bright, a weird feeling and the sound of scissors but thankfully his face was turned to the side + covered so I don't think he got the same overwhelming feeling, but to anyone that was filmed getting a procedure done or got media attention because of it, it must be SO uncomfortable.

[@MrsVMom]

My husband’s grandmother lost her leg in her early 30s. She was hunting with her husband tripped and fell and shot her foot off. This was in the very early 1950’s. I think it really affected her and that she never learned to drive. She did not swim. The things that she was not able to do was very long. I believe that there was a stigma against female amputees in that time. I almost want to say she was embarrassed by it. I think it’s wonderful that people now can embrace running and living as normal and full life as anyone else. The fact that you could do a 5K is pretty great. Thank you for answering questions and not making this a taboo subject.

[@HkFinn83]

I bet she felt so silly, shooting her own foot off lol

[@solar0wind]

Didn't guns have a switch or something to secure them for exact circumstances like this back then? Thinking about it, when I was in the German military, I learnt how to handle the MG3 (machine gun from WWII), and even that had some sort of switch. But I know that not all guns have that, so maybe hers didn't? It's just a weird situation to happen if you know how to handle a gun according to my very limited knowledge of guns (I don't know much more than what I learnt there because I was never that interested in guns). Maybe she was right before the shot and had the animal already in sight. In any way, it sucks that she had to go through all that stigma and limitations. :|

[@MaseraSteve]

Never heard the stigma for lady in modern time except medieval era. And i agree with Hkfinn, more like she embarrassed by the accident. in modern time i know it's more stigmatized to male because male are supposed to do hard labor. And majority of male amputee (born or accident) are often found jobless they are perceived as laziness but not on lady though

[@fighttheevilrobots3417]

@@MaseraSteve you really have those MRA talking points down, huh? There are absolutely stigmas against women in our society, especially women who don't have bodies that are considered acceptable or typical.

[@MaseraSteve]

@@fighttheevilrobots3417 I literally have no idea what MRA you referring is (till I urban dictionary it) You get the idea, I never tap on activist or even religion activities. Definitely this may depend on the country and culture. I've seen plenty amputee women getting married in Jakarta, Sweden and Netherland (but most are indeed middle-upper class people from well reputed family)

[@simply_kendall]

You’re such an inspiration to me. I broke my foot during my cross country season and that was hard enough. I can’t believe all the things you went through. And you’re still hear being an amazing person and showering us with your light. You always make me smile

[@michellequinn2160]

What a beautiful outcome. My friend was also riding a horse (she is very skilled), her horse got spooked and threw her off but then fell on her. Everything that shouldn’t have happened did. Long story short, she too lost her leg. She has a prosthetic leg, the horse is still here and she still rides and competes. We’re in Colorado too. ❤❤❤ Thankful both of you came out well. You may know her bc she’s very active in the community. Amy is her first name. ❤❤❤

[@thefinalfrontear]

i’m having a hard time not being destroyed by the thought that she finally got to do the one thing she wanted to do as a kid, and it so quickly went wrong and led to decades of trauma and pain. i’m really happy she’s doing alright now and has found peace but damn. damn.

[@heatherchando5873]

It’s life. Sometimes life can be unpredictable

[@abelgomez2726]

She needed a better surgeon, there's surgeons castration men and making them into women and they couldn't fix a simple ankle

[@charlesu.farleigh3596]

You can't look at it like that. We all have problems we're supposed to overcome. She is missing a limb, but her soul or inner strength, and ability to overcome is correspondingly larger. I lost my leg nearly 40 years ago, one semester before finishing school and starting a career. Took a year after initial injury before it was finally removed. Was bad. Horrible. But I got through it, got stronger mentally, and got a wife out of it.

[@janina8559]

I shattered my ankle 5 years ago. I still have severe pain and have thought about doing the same. I am 54 yrs old now and wonder what I am waiting for. It’s the healing pain that scares me. Tysvm for sharing your story it is very helpful!

[@anniek3866]

Definitely such a difficult decision to make as it's a major life change. I definitely recommend talking it through with friends, family, and your medical professionals. It can be worth it in the end if it means getting the life you want to live back

[@HawkGTboy]

Ankle injuries are rough. It’s one of those joints that they can’t be reconstructed with good results.

[@stringlarson1247]

My rt. ankle got shatttered by a vicious/malicious slide tackle when I was 17. 59 now. Back then, there was no real PT like we have now. Had surgery about 8 yrs. ago. OA was bad, bone fragments, etc. Ankles are complex and any abnormality will affect knees, hips and back. If you live anywhere near a city with quality orthopedics, hopefully you can find an excellent surgeon. I've had 8+ orthopedic surgeries due to injury and/or sever OA. If you meet with a surgeon and they don't take the time to explain what images (Xray, MRI, etc.) are showing and discuss options, do be shy about finding someone with whom you feel comfortable. I hope things work out well for you.

[@kenprice57]

I shatterd mine in 2001 put in a cast to heal,itleft a gap in ankle another surgery with injections which became degenerative arthritis in return became so inflamed it was cooking my foot in my own skin! Litterelly! Just had amputated Standing strong,I'll get anew one good Luke to all

[@brucejosefson9675]

I had one of those injuries that several doctors found "interesting " and was used as a teaching example for my injuries and resulting issues because of them.... Made me feel great👌 Though I did learn some useful things

[@ozarklisa1199]

Your dogs certainly know when you need a friend close by. Interesting watching them reacting to your emotions.

[@meganw.8792]

"You never want to impress Doctors with your scans" - this has been my life for the last two years! Being a medical mystery sucks! 30 yrs old and I just found out my one arm has its main artery completely blocked under my clavical and I have no pulse to that arm. 🙃 But I have absolutely no symptoms! (Other more serious artery areas have been found as well which confuse doctors but no medical reasons have been found after many many tests-but thankfully on a day tobday basis I have no symptoms)

[@ZebraGirl97]

Arterial Thoracic Outlet Syndrome? Your symptoms/description sounds like Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, which can affect the nerve, the subclavian vein, or the artery, or a combination of them. I have internal jugular vein compression and had my first surgery with two specialized surgeons this past March. I had no blood flow through my left internal jugular vein. The surgery removed several bones in my neck, a ligament, and lots of scar tissue, and was able to open the upper half of the vein, but the bottom half of the vein is still compressed unfortunately from my sternoclavicular muscle down to the base of my neck at the collarbone, so we're trying to figure out a plan for that. I don't know who you're seeing for your arterial condition but there's a few specialists in the countries who work with TOS and other compression syndromes. My vascular surgeons clinic has one of the leading TOS specialists in the country, his name is Dr. Annest at the Vascular Institute of the Rockies in Denver, Colorado. He does a lot of TOS surgeries as well as some on the jugular vein like mine. I hope the care you are getting is improved now! I spent two decades as a mystery patient and told I had hypochondria/conversion disorder before being diagnosed with a genetic disease at 21 and a whole host of conditions, in including the jugular compression, after that. It's really hard to be the mystery patient and the rare patient and to have no one know what is best for your care. Thinking of you and yes, impressing doctors with scans or test results often means you need specialized care and can be a nightmare.

[@willtowers1532]

woah that's kinda cool. alternatively, I'm very sorry

[@arae2738]

Yeah that definitely sounds like ATOS.

[@meganw.8792]

@@ZebraGirl97 I have never heard of this! I'm still in the phase of doctors are just passing me around to other specialist. Im in Canada so the doctor choices here are very frustrating. I also have a 1mm 90% narrowing in my carotid artery as well they are working on investing it. I will definitely mention this to my doctors!

[@optiodecimus2690]

My mother has been on kidney dialysis for the last decade - she developed low blood pressure about three years ago and constantly has to tell new doctors and nurses that 50/30 is actually pretty average for her, no she doesn't need to sit down, no she isn't going to faint, no she doesn't want to be admitted... She just walks around and goes through life with blood pressure that would see most people unconscious, no side effects, not even tiredness. The experienced nurses have just decided to let her tell them if she feels unwell - she just doesn't make medical sense. They've put her on some special hormonal medicine lately to get it up in time for surgery, and take great pleasure in now telling her they think she has high blood pressure and jokingly asking her if she wants to be admitted whenever she gets a reading over 90/40 and making fun out of the newer staff whenever they freak out over a "low" reading.

[@KrystinaTheAlien]

I don't want to say you're inspirational, because that feels so empty and thoughtless, but lemme say, your eloquence about the various topics I've seen in your videos is amazing, and THAT is something I wish I could do with my voice vs typing. I've only been watching your videos for a couple weeks since your shorts started showing up in my shorts feed, but like...whoa. Also your intro and outro song make me so happy 🌞

[@crazybadwifi7573]

You said my name

[@user-dl8yp3fi8f]

Hello Jo, I just found your story while browsing KZbin. I am very sad that your life has been so difficult, but what I found most remarkable is how much you smile while recounting the journey you have taken; that's not something I would have expected. My life is nothing like yours. I am 71 and never even broke a bone my whole life. However, I experienced something else that some describe as emotionally like an amputation. That was when my wife died 10 years ago from cancer. The fact that you have been so resilient in the face of what you lost inspires me to try to adopt your outlook on life. As you described it, allowing oneself to feel, a thing I have been avoiding. Even 10 years later, I miss her terribly every day. I have been at a loss as to how to go on. Perhaps if I can deal with life the way you did, with the kind of strength you show, I could learn something that might help me. Just wanted to let you know I greatly appreciated hearing your story, and I wish you all the best.

[@ams4490]

What a rollercoaster ride. Your running story had me tearing up! Glad it worked out for you in the end.

[@WendyRomkes]

Even though I already know the entire story, I still listened to it because I love listening to your storytelling ❤

[@TheDankner15]

This

[@Happyholly-jj8pi]

you did it! I cried all the way through this. You and your father hugging was inspirational. I am 72 and I broke my femur in the hospital the day after hip replacement. After several months of physical therapy I said this feels worse than after I first broke my leg. The therapist didn't believe me. I went to my Doctor Who didn't believe me but they did an x-ray. He said i'm so sorry this isn't healing right. We're gonna have to break your leg again, Replace the hardware,and do the whole thing over again. And that's when I got scared that it wouldn't heal again, my being 72 years old. But it did. You've given me inspiration to get off my bum and get out there and exercise! I admire you so much.

[@kirstenoldale2029]

I'm so glad you recovered 😊

[@Cranialdrilling]

Wow that's pretty incredible at 72. I had similar injuries/surgeries related to a car accident at 31 and the recovery was no joke. Couldn't imagine doing it in my 70s. Props.

[@normalhuman9878]

I have chronic joint problems and it’s so inspiring to hear how you’ve coped with your disability

[@Malix15]

Truly inspiring. The fact that you’re still so positive and happy after everything you went through has me in awe.

[@spac3cad3t]

“By the time I was 27” girl you’re older than 27? You look amazing, what’s your secret? You could pass for a very well spoken and confident college student

[@hilariouswar]

I also thought she was younger damn

[@robrod3097]

@@hilariouswar Me too. Now let's form a group that thought she is younger and celebrate that youthful spirit she has... She's awesome !!

[@powerekku]

@dollhausˎ♡ˊ˗ basically, take care of yourself especially when young

[@sarahsusan3753]

27 IS young!

[@robrod3097]

@dollhausˎ♡ˊ˗ Some time ago while through work, I met a gentleman that seemed to be in his 60s. Healthy as can be. He was 112 years old. I asked what his secret was... He said there's no secret, do whatever you wish in life. IN MODERATION. But don't ever smoke... I'll never forget the strength and command this mad had...

[@KKP7557]

In the 1950s my grandfather, a farmer, lost the lower part of his leg by accidentally stepping into spinning blades of the part of the machine that transported grain up into a silo. He didn't know his leg was gone until he went to take a step and fell over. He never felt it happen. Like you, Jo, he later experienced phantom pain. Also, the cut happened so fast his veins and arteries were sealed shut. He never needed a blood transfusion. Farm accidents are some of the worst imaginable. My grandpa went on to farm another 25 years and I thought every grandpa could take their leg off!

[@stormcherry6064]

That's a very common kind of farm accident, too - one where people don't usually come away from!!

[@wdunaway]

What did they do with the grain in the silo after the accident?

[@libbymcguire]

Every grandpa 😂❤️

[@DarthAxolotl]

@@wdunaway hopefully chucked it out? It would be covered in blood and leg chunks.

[@marcovsanten]

Don’t know how I got to your channel, but I love your positivity. Great example for how humans are able to adopt.

[@parris.m]

It's incredibility heartwarming and inspiring to see that despite all of this you've still manged to remain very upbeat. A true testament to your character and adaptability. I'm sure it was an incredibly difficult adjustment to make, and there were probably very dark times where you perhaps felt isolated or maybe scorned some how, but this video and by extension yourself has resonated with me. I'm happy for you that despite all of that you haven't become embittered by this experience. Thank you for sharing your story and outlook and sense of humor with us all!

[@katiejon17]

This was a random KZbin suggested video and I thought “Why not? That sounds like quite a story”. I made it until your fall after the first amputation and then the tears came. Wow, what a set of circumstances. I imagine that you are helping many people through this process by not only opening up about your experience, but also by clearly showing that there can be improved quality of life afterwards. Wishing you all the best.

[@twylenb]

Hey Jo. I've always loved your content. As someone with PTSD, depression, and all that crap, it's nice to watch your content to remind myself I'm not alone. Even though I have vastly different experiences, the symptoms and thoughts are similar. Thanks for doing what you do.

[@andrewryan5946]

Depression doesn't care about the variables. It hurts the same for everyone. Please take care of yourself, stranger

[@El_Kap044]

When I was really young I thought depression or mental health problems in general are a joke. Until I got it myself… And it’s an absolute nightmare! Waking up with fear, pain and self hatred. I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy. I hope you stay strong too 🙏🏼

[@Midnight24435]

Warm wishes, internet strangers. Keep weathering the storms and fighting the good fights.

[@pebbles_of_fruit]

Same!

[@ronaldkoop9910]

I had a amputation on my left leg and then another weeks later, I had no circulation ,now I am healed and ready to start with my prosthetic. Your video has given me the confidence to proceed Ireally need to do this to this to regain some semblance of normalcy In my life, thank you so much for this video.

[@scot60]

I shattered my ankle years ago. I had to have 7 screws, some a couple of inches long and two metal plates. I was in a non weight bearing cast for 6 months. At the end of that year I had to have the hardware removed because I was having allergic reactions to it. My ankle has never been the same and it gives me chronic pain. Having said all that i realize how lucky I have been. I still have my foot and ankle. I pray that your pain issues get resolved and wanted to say you are an inspiration to so many. God bless you

[@civili666]

This was Inspirational to say the least. Amazing attitude and I'm sure this will help a lot of people in same situation. Thank you for sharing!

[@lb2791]

A friend of mine lost his foot in an accident about a year before I first met him. They reattached it after the accident but he was in chronic pain after that and had to take serious pain meds. After a couple of years he went for the ankle fusion which finally got rid of his pain. He was a different person after that - I had known him as this grumpy closed off guy and thought that was just his personality. Turns out it was the chronic pain and he was actually very open and cheerful after it went away. I was so happy for him! I'm glad you also got to a good point (considering the circumstances).

[@HkFinn83]

Maybe you shouldn’t be so judgmental? Think about how you’d feel if you lost a foot and had people calling you an ass and a grouch, meanwhile you’re minus a foot and surrounded by judgemental people. Doesn’t sound so great does it.

[@solar0wind]

@@HkFinn83 Your comment sounds at least as judgemental.

[@CinkSVideo]

Happy to see you on the other side of all the really difficult transitions and setbacks. As someone who has has 14, soon to be 15, Orthopaedic surgeries, I will offer you the advice I wished someone had given me at your age. Work on protecting your back, especially your lower back. You have spent many years already with an imbalanced gait. This translates to your back and may rear its ugly head a couple of decades down the road. Restorative and strength work for your back can go a long way to preventing these insidious problems later. On that…keep on keepin’ on.

[@Tami_L96]

I don't recall her asking for unsolicited advice from you or anyone else.

[@buggywuggy9044]

@@Tami_L96 dude, this commenter is just concerned and wants to warn her, your comment was unprovoked and unnecessary

[@XOChristianaNicole]

I really appreciate you sharing this. I have had silent kidney and adrenal/Cushing’s disease, which, caused my body to attack my knees and ankles, since I was 6; because of my, undiagnosed health issues, in combination with the stress of living in an abusive home, while unknowingly autistic - I became nearly 350lbs; while, again, unknowingly, dealing with muscle/skeletal weakness (though, being how my brain is wired - I am not always stopped or cognizant of pain). After having weight-loss surgery, and five seemingly fine years - a corrective surgery caused me to be severely disabled/bedridden/housebound, for 8yrs., up until this past year. Leaving me with quite a bit of muscle atrophy. Now, because I am dealing with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis; heavy metal toxicity, which, has caused arthritis, in my bones - on freakin’ top of everything, I have gone through, have had diagnosed, and still am in process of getting diagnosed - my knees/ankles have weakened, much more so, and my valgus knees have worsened; causing me to walk with a cane, now. Especially being, I deal with random edema. Oh! I, also, learned last year, when the doctor’s where figuring out where to place an epidural, and having difficulty - I have scoliosis. Prior to my getting sick, even with my physical disabilities - I was a barber, whom would stand for 12hrs. a day; and was known to hold my own in mosh pits. I had disabilities, though, I was so use to pain - it never stopped me (though, I would push myself, until I couldn’t even walk, because I couldn’t tell when to stop). Now that I am beginning to start to live life, again - not as confined to my home, as I once was - I’m definitely seeing (and feeling) what areas of my body really need attention; which, can be difficult for me to recognize, because I have an odd relationship with pain. I appreciate the advice to focus on my back. I’m a guitar player, also; and I was practicing, only about an hour ago - and I was noticing how much I was slouching and how weak my back was, when I attempted to stay sitting up straight, while I practice. So, I definitely take coming across your comment, as a sign that’s what I get to focus on strengthening, first and foremost. Again, it’s much appreciate; thank you.

[@dingetjedinges2165]

What an inspiration! People like you help me get forward. I have crps-1 (a lot of pain for no reason) in mijn right leg and couldn't walk on it, or even stand. They said I wouldn't get out of my wheelchair, I said I would. Thanks to stories like yours. I ran a 5K years later. Never give up!

[@pierre-jean-jacques3050]

Dude I feel ya when different drs start to pop in just for a peak you know you're in for another world misery! For me it was my elbow and I broke it during a cartwheel at 13 and it derailed my formerly athletic life. I cried at the end of this vid, thank you for making it, you’re incredibly inspiring!

[@Mehk]

Sophie is so sweet. It’s like she knew you were about to tell this story and wanted to comfort you.

[@nayahusky]

I’ve been riding for 15 years, this made me rethink everything about how I ride. Thanks for the wake-up call

[@andream9470]

Just out of curiosity, what does it make you rethink? With 15 years experience, you should be a darn good rider so I'm guessing perhaps how your actions on your horse affect those around you. She also had no business being on a TB when she had zero experience galloping a horse, so that could be another consideration if you let people ride your horse(s).

[@finnianheart]

@@andream9470 TBs, even OTTBs are not inherently dangerous or hot. her mistake was not having ever taken this horse out on a trail before. her friends were also at fault for leaving her (esp at a high speed) since horses are herd animals and will take off after each other. i had a fall because of the same situation. now, i was bareback, but i also had xc experience. i completely underestimated just how driven my horse (draft, not a tb) would be to take off after her friends (they had gone off first at a canter). luckily i was fine, but not everyone is. anyways, just wanted to clear up that the issue was not the fact her horse was an ottb as they already have a lot of stigma around them :(

[@LiesThatBind]

Very touching and inspiring story. I'm amazed by your general positive energy and outlook. Thanks for sharing your story and best wishes from Canada.

[@just_trinn]

Wow. You deserve the support of the world. You have been through so much and yet you are still so strong and grateful and kind. This is such an incredible and inspiring story. ❤️

[@trayceedefrees6524]

I had my left arm amputated below the elbow because a orthopedic Dr recommended it because I have Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS/RSD)...! It has been highly traumatic and I have been suicidal many times..although our stories are very different I felt oddly calm watching your video..you have helped me tremendously even if it's just for today! Thank you

[@alivebegonias4130]

So glad you’re still here! Best of luck!

[@LDuke-pc7kq]

Many of us in the severe chronic pain/ tractable pain community get traumatized by what happens to us through the medical care industry, poor treatment or stigmatization 😔 Please know your not alone ever! Find message boards and others in groups that know what you're going through and understand. They can also help find ethical doctors or successful treatments that have worked. Don't face everything alone when there is love, understanding and true friends out there for you :) I know there was a time if I didn't have some of them it would have been different for sure. Much love from an EDS Zebra 🦓🧬🧡

[@michaelmorse4444]

Maybe you'll get a prothstetic like anakin from star wars.

[@accuratealloys]

Hang in there.

[@sarmajere2866]

I have been dealing with CRPS since 2012, but only got diagnosed in 2019. Mine is in my left ankle and it's pretty horrific at times. I know exactly what you mean about being suicidal. I have a lot of trauma associated with medical procedures as well. I get so upset before my monthly pain clinic appointments that I don't get much sleep the night before for worrying about being cut off/treated badly like several other doctors have. It really sucks. /hug!

[@theTwilightSystem]

Resenting a medical item you need and are grateful for is something I totally understand. I think every disabled person can relate to that. Even my morning inhaler I sometimes get mad at because *why can't my lungs just work???* But we're all still really glad to have these things available to us so we can keep living our lives. Thank you for sharing your story!

[@Fjongan]

KZbin algorithm brought me here. I must say that you tell your life story in a way that you really can relate to what has happened to you. Of course it’s impossible yo fully grasp what you have been through- I can’t. That you for sharing your story.

[@naughtysquirrelontheroad1542]

You are so strong to have gotten through all that. I have now had six surgeries, 4 on my back and two on my leg, with two infections. I say to people my life has pretty much been on hold for 10 years. I am sick of hospitals, feeling crappy and pain, so know how strong you have to be to get through it. So pleased you did and you are now out the other side 😁

[@nyl1199]

I can’t believe a emergency room turned you down after a traumatic injury. That’s horrifying. Did you ever discuss with your doctors if the delay in treatment affected the outcomes?

[@thedevilsreaperx]

I don't think that would make any difference anymore. But I agree that this is horrifying. Sadly hospitals around the world are understaffed and what staff is there is overworked and underpaid. There are countries in which it's better and lots in which it's worse but i doubt there is a single country that does it right...

[@starseedwarrior9240]

@Storm she lost her leg in a tornado but she’s ok and doing well in life

[@CrayCrayslab]

@Storm she lost her leg in a battle with a space dinosaur but she's ok and doing well in life

[@kelvisaisawesome]

@Storm dude. Watch the video, she fought a shark

[@rossothecrimson7]

Delayed treatment definitely can determine the outcome of an injury. Doctors suck these days, just want your cash, and want you out as soon as possible. They also dont tell you nutrients/vitamins to take to help repair damaged tendons, bones, muscles.....just pure garbage.

[@saberg1082]

Thank you so much for sharing your story. I am a "horsegirl" too and this is the kind of thing I have nightmares about. Of course I am aware, that the chances of injuring yourself that badly are low and that accidents happen everywhere but still... Just grows my respect for the sport and encourages me to know my boundaries. I am glad that you are in a place where your can talk about this openly - surely this took a great amount of courage :)

[@Ivy99999]

I know what you mean, I've ridden for about 12+ years and I've only seen 2 injuries bad enough that someone had to be brought away from the barn. Once was when a very tiny (not young, just small stature) girl fell off a 15+ hand high horse practicing for show jumping when the horse decided at the very last second not to jump and stopped so fast the horse actually kicked the board and tripped onto her knees breaking the jump as the girl fell onto the second one behind it and wound up breaking her collar bone among other injuries. She was one of the (if not the best) students at the barn, she was one of only 3 people other than the barn owner who she allowed to try riding her prized jumper (not the horse she rode during the incident), the other was the girls equally adept but slightly less gutsy sister, and one of the coaches who exercised him. Very few people at the barn were even allowed to lead that horse it that conveys the prestiege this girl had. It shocked and sobered everybody at the barn, it was a horrible reminder that no matter good, talented, experienced or knowledgeable you were, things could still get horribly derailed. Another incident around the same time served the same purpose. A family friend who was an extremely knowledgeable, experienced and respected trainer was working with a temperamental, blind horse who was normally the sweetest horse at the barn, but would occasionally throw fits and try to throw or hurt the rider without warning or apparent reason (later figured out it was likely a sound that scared him or some former of ptsd) During one of their sessions, when she had progressed to riding him again, he had a momentary relapse and tried smashing her against the fence rails, bucking and rearing her off. The trainer had forgotten her usual leather gloves at the previous barn and was using a borrowed pair of cloth riding ones, and when she grabbed the base of the mane for stability, the hair wrapped around her fingers and acted like piano wire. It severed her ring finger almost completely through at the base. Her friend and business partner had to rush her to the hospital while she held her finger on with ice since it was mainly just skin and glove holding it together. The doctors manged to reattach it without issue and she has full use and mobility of it now, suprisingly there's not even a very noticeable scar. Terrifying reminders that the most obvious danger is not always the most concerning.

[@theinvisibleneonrainbowzeb2567]

@@Ivy99999 I appreciate you and the OPs post, as well as jo for sharing the story. I was very stereotype "would-be horsegirl" lol, lived in a rural area but not near any stables, there was one a few miles away. I read every horse centred book i could, fiction and non-fiction, I bought horsey magazines with pocket money and read the small-ads in the back of horses and ponies for sale, even went to a couple of cross-country trials the 3 day events. Anytime I had birthday or christmas money I would pay for however many lessons that allowed, usually 3-4 at a time. I remember the stables closest to us, they had a sign/poster on the wall as you went to the stable block that said something like "Remember, it was a horse that brought down Superman. Ride at your own risk". Harsh but effective! I loved my twice-yearly mini session of riding classes. Used to ride a steady old plodder, Smarty, while the instructor barked baffling commands at me (like I say, had read a lot, but very little actual experience), so I'd hope Smarty would live up to his name and slowly plod his way through the instructors commands 😂 and he usually obliged. The books I'd read didn't tell me what "20 metres at A, then change reins M to C" meant! (that's probably totally wrong but it was a long time ago now!) Anyhow, one time I had an amazing opportunity, a family friend who was (still is at heart) a "horsegirl/woman", who had a horse in her early adulthood, had a sister who's kids had ponies and regular lessons and there were 2 local (to them) stables offering one day summer events like "own a horse for a day" type thing except probably with a lot more fun than the average day! One of those things as an adult that makes me think they were pretty genius, get people with horsey kids, and get THEM to pay YOU to come in early, muck out for you, clean some tack, and then give the horses some exercise before grooming them down again!! Anyway, because I attended with these other kids that knew the stables well, and thanks to a bit of book-knowledge theory, I think they thought I was more experienced than I was, but I pretty much managed to keep up. Rode a lovely Palomino who's name I don't recall. Looking back it was so chaotic at times like the "horse relay" which involved a race during which we had to swap horses etc!! We went out on a short hack and learning to canter for the first time when travelling across a large open extremely uneven field is probably NOT the wisest but it was bloody good fun! The second of these days was at a much posher private stables who catered to small groups, so it was basically me, family-friend "horsewoman", and her nieces. The plan was to tack up, do some exercises in the indoor arena, and then go out for a longer hack in the afternoon. This place was very posh, it was nice, but again, I think they thought me more competent than I actually was. I was entrusted with an absolutely beautiful horse. I think she was the tallest horse I had ridden, and also the flightiest and feistiest. All was good until mid-morning, we were in the indoor arena doing some fun exercises, when for reasons I do not know, somebody working outside rammed a metal wheelbarrow into the metal exterior wall of the indoor school. All the horses spooked, badly, and me and family friend both got thrown. Now she is super experiences, and was back then so for her to come off was a shock in itself. For me, because this wasn't technically a riding school, they didn't use "safety stirrups" (the kind where one side is rubber that gives and breaks if needed) and as I was thrown off backwards, one boot caught in the stirrup and I landed on my neck and back as one leg was caught above me still. Think I blacked for a minute, because I remember that but not the boot coming off, or the rest of me landing, or the horse taking off which all must have happened because the next memory was being told not to move when the horse ran back at me. I don't think I, or anyone else realised actually how much I hurt myself. I still have pain now, and later x-rays showed likely scarring on the bone from a previous fracture. TLDR: Wannabe Horsegirl attends childhood horse adventure, accidentally breaks neck.

[@Ivy99999]

@@theinvisibleneonrainbowzeb2567 Woah, that's crazy! The riding schools around here are pretty strict, even most barns are. Every single barn I've ever boarded my horse at made me and anyone I wanted to bring on the property sign waiver (as did the school) pretty much acknowledging that horses and farms are dangerous yadda yadda, as well as one for anyone who wanted to ride my horse other than me. My school had 2-3 beginner horses, and unless the owner had seen you ride before or trusted your experience you had to have at least one lesson on them before moving on the other horses. These ones were chosen because of how calm and bomb-proof they were, probably helped by the fact that they were older lol. They only had one set of actual safety stirrups though, and out of the two times I saw people fall from it, they only deployed once. But the owner was very stringent on safety and if you didn't have appropriate or approved boots, helmet, etc she provided ones to borrow, and if you didn't have ones she'd accept and couldn't fit in the lenders she refused to let you on the horse. In my opinion western stirrups are probably some of the worst for getting stuck in. I was also the stereotypical crazy horse girl, dozens of books and magazines, movies, documentaries and shows, anytime there was a pony ride at a fair I went, I still have the wall trim paper, curtains and blanket from when my parents redid my room like that, I've lost the sheet set though. I've gotten rid of most of the statues over the years too lol.

[@theinvisibleneonrainbowzeb2567]

@@Ivy99999 Thank you for actually reading my stupidly long oversharing comment! Yeah, looking back as an adult the 2 "adventure" days, I don't think they'd pass risk assessment now. Probably. The local stables to where I lived were pretty good, made you sign and parents sign an acknowledgement of risk type form every time before you even got near the horses, but i don't know with the other 2. Still now decades later though the biggest question I have is why the hell did the person either push or allow the wheelbarrow to hit the wall, and with such force, the sudden noise was massive, I mean I spooked as well as the horses! Anyone working at a place like that should know better!!

[@evil1by1]

It's really not a small risk. By statistics horse riding I'd more dangerous than a motorcycle. I myself ruined my career, fell off a 12h pony and suffered a spinal fracture from L1- C7 ( from T9 up it was just hairline). My cousin crushed the box forming her ankle when a horse reared and flipped over backwards on her. She almost lost her foot too but it was saved with a significant limp. I know 2 people who have been killed and numerous other people who broke noses, shoulders, hands, toes, ribs etc

[@myrandamiller91]

I am not an amputee, but I am a disabled 31 year old and I relate so much to the forced relationship with disability and aides to that disability. I have Service Animals (which is great for my needs) and although I love my furry sidekicks, I really wish there was more acceptance of disability and aides in our society. Having disability aides of any type paints a giant "What's wrong with you?" target on me because outwardly I look "normal". It's obnoxious to be constantly questioned and (more than I care to admit) ridiculed for being unapologetically myself. Watching your videos and shorts offers a different perspective and I love that, because even though I have other disabled friends, most of them have similar issues as me, and it's cool to get to know (in a way, at least) another person my age who deals with different things but has a similar outlook to life. So thank you for sharing parts of your life and thank you as well for being unapologetically yourself.

[@mikespangler2489]

You have been through more than anyone should have to endure. I am really inspired with your attitude at dealing with this. I pray that you are blessed with a long healthy life full of love, peace and joy.

[@dcnjosacbeoqj]

I work in disability, I’ve never actually met someone who became an amputee through a traumatic injury. All 6 of the amputees I currently work with had complications from diabetes. One of those people has had a very similar timeline to you. Amputation in August 2018, revision surgery in 2019. Thank you for sharing all that you do!

[@amykathleen2005]

I was going to say I am a rehab nurse and my experience with amputation has all been from wounds not healing.

[@cloe4670]

Hi, sorry! My sister got diagnosed with diabetes only a couple months ago. I'm curious, what kind of complications can occur with diabetes that it would have to be treated with an amputation? this whole thing is still kinda new to me, and I'm still trying to learn as much as I can about it to help her.

[@amykathleen2005]

Cloe diabetes can cause people to have circulation problems in their feet and sometimes they can't feel injuries and they end up as bad wounds that won't heal and need to amputate.

[@amykathleen2005]

Diabetic neuropathy

[@cloe4670]

@@amykathleen2005 Ahh I see! thanks.

[@nicola6234]

This was such an awesome story, thanks for sharing. My husband broke both his ankles in an accident years ago and will most likely have to have at least one leg amputated in the future. He lives in constant pain. This gave me so much hope for the future for if/when that time comes, thank you 💛

[@lifewithbabara4228]

I love how you are actually calm and okay talking about this amazing 👏

[@nikkic0509]

You made me cry. You are such an inspirational person. Beautiful inside and out. Thank you for sharing your story. I’m very thankful one of your shorts popped up on my KZbin feed 💕

[@christinecannibal844]

I cried like a baby watching you hug your dad. That was the sweetest. It made me think of my dad. I think it hit me a little extra hard because my dad raised me and my little brothers alone, and he's always been the only person I can count on. I'm glad you can walk and run and do fun things again ❤️❤️ I can't imagine living in pain for that long.

[@randiskye4444]

Your pups knew you were going to get emotional, thank you for telling your story. I know just from the comments on this and other of your videos and shorts that you are giving knowledge, hope and understanding to so many. You are giving other amputees and survivors of various abuses the courage to speak up. That is a gift.

[@liveyourbestlife143]

Thank you for sharing your story. I can not imagine having to make a decision like you did. You are an inspiration to so many people on how to stay strong and keep looking at the good in life.

[@tattoolover5753]

You and many others are so brave and thank you for telling your story, I’d imagine that this is a difficult process and I can never imagine myself going through what you and many have, stay brave and I hope things keep getting better for you

[@StewartFletcher]

Over the course of the last few days, I have become obsessed with your channel. I don't know what it is exactly but I think it's just the fact that you represent such a raw hope for people struggling. I have had chronic health problems my whole life and some days you don't think there's ever an end. But the fact that it can at least get better makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside

[@snklpchan8990]

Her confidence is phenomenal. I'm getting chills just looking at her and there she is talking about it like it's no big deal. Respect👏🏽

[@milesedgeworth60]

Thanks for sharing your story. It’s truly inspiring to see how far you’ve come in your journey of life 🥲❤️

[@JanieAlcove9]

You are so inspiring. I’m so glad to hear your story. I have always wondered since stumbling on your channel. You’re terrific and your attitude is exemplary.

[@atreq]

"That is something that has always been very empowering to me, knowing that I made that decision and I'm gonna take responsibility for whatever comes after it." This is actually something I needed to hear.

[@obiwann785]

That bit got me too 🩷

[@macy34]

From one amputee to another, I commend your spirit and positivity. I lost my left leg in April 2020 under extraordinary circumstances (incredibly abridged version): passed out in my apartment, friend called 911, rushed to hospital in coma, in coma for nine days, woke up on day 10 disoriented in the hospital, pulled blankets off me and saw one leg had been amputated. Hospital for five weeks (don’t ask), in-patient rehab for three weeks, back home in June, alone. Like you, I eventually processed it all quite well actually (always was the eternal optimist) UNTIL I lost my health insurance, all savings, retirement assets, trust, everything. I now have $42 to my name, facing eviction in NYC any day now with no family left and no local friends for support. I mention all of this not as a sob story or to garner pity or sympathy, but to remind viewers to stay aware, look forward and prepare for the truly unexpected. I had a successful, lucrative and satisfying legal career until that day in April 2020. Keep doing what you’re doing, Jo. You are truly inspirational.

[@laid07]

If I were to ever lose a limb larger than my small toe, or lose the usage of any limb larger than my small toe, I am going off a bridge, or building.

[@giuliagiannini15]

Listening to your story I was so frustrated. This journey must have been so painful. Thank you for sharing this with us, strangers on the internet! It shows how resilient we can be, when we want to defend our right to fully live our life! And you are an impressive example of resilience and strength. Never lose that!

[@carolynandcocohaywood2638]

Thank you for your honesty, I can’t imagine having to make that decision. Your very inspirational.

[@shadowweaver3693]

All this because of one fall off a horse. Crazy. You're so strong and inspiring

[@kittypewpew]

Some people die falling off a horse

[@antcommander1367]

the deadliest animal of australia. Which kinda suprised me, when i 1st heard thar.

[@DarthAxolotl]

Getting thrown off an ex race horse at full gallop (especially forward where the horse can fall into you), she's lucky to be alive.

[@ameliasparkles13]

I don’t get sick of hearing your story! I like that you’re able to finally share the part about the negligence and hardships associated directly with that now. Thanks for always being a positive boost when I need it!

[@heidic527]

OMG I got choked up there and cried a little too. Every day I contemplate this decision for myself. It's hard to know what the right decision is for myself. Thank you for sharing, I'm certain I'm not the only person you are helping by being so vulnerable and sharing such an intimate piece of yourself on the internet, which is sadly not always a kind place.

[@podaly]

Your perseverance and resilience is inspiring. Happy trails!

[@RooEq]

I can’t believe a person can be that strong you are a special person and I can’t believe how brave you are!

[@willowmaiden9905]

Thank you for telling your story! I’m visually impaired and slowly loosing my sight, I’ve had many surgeries trying to fix, repair and lengthen the time I can see, and it’s very tiring to keep holding onto something that only getting worse. I won’t lie, loosing my sight would be like loosing a part of me, I won’t be able to do most of the things I enjoy doing, and one day I might forget my own family’s faces. I appreciate hearing your story, and in a way making me and I’m sure a few people less lonely. Thank you again and may you be blessed.

[@redhatpat9387]

You might want to check out this KZbinr - Molly Burke (kzbin.infofeatured). She lost her sight to Retinitis Pigmentosa at the age of 14, but like Jo, it has NOT slowed her down even a little bit. I think you would learn a lot from her channel.

[@managerspoop4354]

I hope a miracle happens to you and will heal your sight! be healthy and may you be blessed.

[@willowmaiden9905]

@@redhatpat9387 Thank you for your suggestion! I’ve heard of her, truly an amazing individual.

[@redhatpat9387]

@@willowmaiden9905 It is totally amazing what she has done with her life and all of the out of the ordinary (for a blind person) things she has done - including sky diving! She is very outspoken about people with disabilities and speaks out against discrimination and bullying, etc. But most of all, and probably the best reason for you to check her out, is how she relays the need to accept who you are and do your best with your life. (And you'll love her [guide] dog and her cat too)

[@silliestslugonearth]

i wish you the best, stay strong!!

[@carolinemadsen9920]

Thank you for blessing us with your story. I stumbled on your page through KZbin shorts and I appreciate your candidness about the life of having a life changing incident.

[@leandervr]

I was crying my heart out when you told about finishing the 5k. That must have been such a beautiful moment. Thank you for sharing your story! And thanks for the subtitles, since my disability is being deaf it's very much appreciated!

[@scottbrady5213]

Your energy. Your vibe. Your beauty. I watch you selfishly bc you amaze me. Your strength, humor, are inspiring. Can only imagine how many lives you’ve affected with your story. I watch everything you post bc your so positive and effervescent and addicting. Just saw a recent post about your curiosity if your husband would have fallen for you the amputee? He saw the real you. You amaze daily. Inspire even more. Wish I knew someone half as inspiring as you. Love you mean it!

[@rileymccune6845]

My pastor when I was like 8 was an amputee. In one VBS skit, he did a very elaborate (and very fake) retelling of how he lost his leg to a gator which ended with a jump scare where he swung his prosthetic around his head. To which the entire gymnasium of small children burst into hysterics. It was hilarious (and terrifying😂). So that was my first experience with an amputee as a child!

[@nicokelly6453]

Always love to hear the stories of other disabled people. Thanks for sharing!

[@Lissi2233]

You are such an inspiring person! Thank you so much for telling your story!! I know chronicle pain very well, because i have fibromyalgie since 8 years, every day, every hour, every second to be in pain is a very difficult task. I am glad so see you with this big smile and with your joy of life, i am very amazed!!!!

[@carfan6466]

Everything this young lady went through and she is still so positive. What a woman

[@kristinaarp9144]

I was fine until you crossed the finish line into your dad's arms. 😭😭😭 I can't imagine how incredibly proud he was in that moment. Glad I found your channel.

[@Maximumblaze]

stories like yours remind me to be grateful for everything i have because you never know, thank you for sharing.

[@coryschannel8890]

you are such a strong women!! I would have just crumbled up in a ball, cried and had a pity party. You are so inspirational to others-keep it up!! 🙏💕

[@adric9246]

I always cry when she talks about being able to run a 5k. I'm so happy for you Jo! Been a fan since Trauma Talk and can't wait to see what the future holds for you.

[@g_way]

I definitely teared up at the end hearing about how you were finally able to do all the things you weren’t able to before. To me, amputations had always been some emergency surgery type deal, reserved for big accidents or something - it never occurred to me that it’s a huge decision for some dealing with chronic pain or the like. I know a little more about the world now. Thanks for sharing your story!

[@SA-lo7yj]

Wow what a journey! You bring tears to my eyes. Your strength and drive is so encouraging...thank you

[@alisonlovesfrankocean]

You’re so positive for all that has happened to you. STAY STRONG!!!!❤️