WHAT HAPPENED?! My Story of How I Lost My Leg and Became an Amputee

[@Dermatillomaniac]

This was in my YT recommended and I'm glad it was! What an awesome, bada** woman!! Hope to see more of her story in the future....or see her at the Paralympics!!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Paralympics are tempting! We'll see what the future brings. But the next video I'm putting out is about my first wheelchair race.

[@onefootforward8218]

Well done you. I had my right leg taken off due to infection in August 2021 due to infection in my heel. I know how tough it gets but I have no doubt you have the right mind set and support to get through anything. Cheers and keep up the good work. John

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thanks, John. You know as well as I do that this isn't the ideal course for life to take, but that doesn't mean we can't enjoy the journey.

[@bkstump]

Great video. I became a right BK amputee 28 years ago. I was doing great until about 1 1/2 years ago when neuromas started to develop and the tibia and fibula decide to start "chopsticking". All of this made it almost impossible to use my prosthesis anymore. Eight days ago, my stump underwent a second amputation using the "Ertl procedure". My surgeon was a later generation Dr. Ertl. The amputation went as planned and so far, all is well except for the post-op pain. Dr. Ertl warned me; "This is going to hurt...a LOT". And then he said; "Come to think of it, everything that I do hurts". He had a sense of humor but he was also 100% correct. Now I have the long wait of healing and then prepping for another prosthesis. I'm both excited and ambivalent at the same time. The last time I was on crutches and in a wheelchair this long was 28 years ago! But I'll get through it. Plus I get to see what kind of new prosthesis technologies are available now. Again, thank you for the video. It brought back memories. I had my leg amputated due to 2 years of complications from what began as a sprained ankle.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

That's the most honest doctor ever! And I'm sorry you forgot that chopsticks belong in your hands (preferably in transit to your mouth), and NOT in your leg. (I hope that made you laugh. Everyone needs a laugh in the middle of that kind of post-op pain.) Hang in there, James! Sending thoughts and prayers your way so you can get back on your feet again. (One "meat foot" + one rubber foot still equals two feet. And if we're honest, the average leg amputee has WAY more feet than the average two-legger.) 😉

[@nastyVtwin]

Hi Stephanina! This was a great video! I really hope it inspires a lot of our amputee peers during the first part or most frustrating parts of their journeys. I lost my leg three years ago this past Sunday. Through the help of family, medical professionals, and a local foundation that works with adaptive athletes, I've gotten back to a high level of fitness and mobility even to the point of competing in this year's CrossFit Open (did ok but not great, lol!). As a fellow Tae Kwon Do practitioner (I got my black belt back in 2006) and generally fit person before amputation, a lot of your story resonated. I'm glad you're doing well and will share your video with some of our peers here! I hope you continue with your videos as I'd like to see how you progress with more advanced prosthetics and sports. If you ever need advice on prosthetics and adaptive sports, please ping me and my friends and I here would love to share info. Good luck and thank you! -Avelino

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Another TKD amputee?! That's beyond awesome! And crossfit too?! I love meeting other amputees who also want to push their athletic limits. What foundation do you work with? And thanks for sharing my video! I'll be posting weekly. My next one in a couple days is about my first experience in a racing wheelchair a few days before amputation.

[@nastyVtwin]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures A couple replies were deleted probably because I included the foundation’s website. But the foundation I work with is IM Able located in Reading, PA. Let’s touch base in the future and update each other on prosthetics and adaptation as you progress in your activities and sports. I received an athletic leg a couple months ago (third leg) and couldn’t be happier! I’ll ping you on FB

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thank you SO much for passing on that information! That sounds wonderful. (Sorry for the slow replay. Apparently KZbin doesn't notify me when people reply to my replies, only when it's a new comment, so I didn't see this until now.) Hope you're having fun on your third leg!

[@sniperwolf50]

Gotta give props to a youtuber who makes their own B-roll instead of using stock FOOTage

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I suffer from a lack of footage these days. 😉🦶🏼

[@paradisebeforeparadise4076]

Yes! Dominoes! Great job! 👍🏻

[@proanimaluver6487]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures lol

[@europauniversalis5406]

Your ability to take the worst parts of life and smile them down will never cease to amaze me.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Smiling is more fun than frowning. And considering how crazy life can get, I need that in my life.

[@sprkl5d]

I just came across this video on my feed. I have to say that you are the most positive, upbeat person with the best attitude Ive seen after all you've been through. TUou are the kind of person I admire and wish I was more like. I can relate somewhat to your story as I've has many surgeries on my leg to rebuild it yrs ago and almost lost it mote than once. Recently I had a very big surgery on my foot to rebuild it. Thankfully it was a success. Though Ill never have the mobility in it I used to and my 3 middle toes are basically paralyzed because for some unknown reason the tendon on top of my food severed. It was scary for a couple months after surgery hoping for no infection following surgery. TG there was none. But before my surgery my Dr warned me about the possibility of amputation. So I know that fear for sure. I've never seen anyone be so positive after amputation as you are! Im sure you won't let it stop you from doing as many things as possible that you did before the amputation. I know you will help so many people accept and work through their amputations with your story and great attitude! God bless you for sharing your journey!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

That's intense what you've been through! And living with the uncertainty of whether or not you'd need your leg amputated is brutal. Such a great blessing that your last surgery was a success! In my life, I feel like there are always more blessings than trials. Seems to me that I see extra things to be grateful for during hard times, the trick is not letting the trials overshadow the blessings. I think gratitude is the core sentiment that has helped me smile through everything, and I want to share the sunshine with people going through hard times. God bless you too! ❤️

[@cremebrulee4759]

I'm glad your video was recommended by KZbin. I love your attitude and your inspiring words. Subscribed.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

You're so kind! Thank you for joining me on my journey!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

P.S. Love your username!

[@IamMichelleMarie]

Sweet Stephanina, thank you so much for sharing your story and your lesson. I think you will help a lot of people who have been procrastinating about getting something they are worried about checked out. It's unfortunate that we live and breath by our medical deductible but this the reality. Getting care costs. Mama's seem to put themselves and their own needs last and we need to take care of our needs first. I'm sorry you had to go through all that. I bet you are stronger for it, but it still sucks. I too am dealing with mobility issue the last few months. But for different reasons. Cancer. I've moved into stage 4 breast cancer with spread to my bones and liver. The bone spread is the worst. So painful. It's eating me alive. I've had to recently get 2 forearm crutches to get around and was close to a wheelchair. I am a single mama to 3 boys! Thankfully mine are older and i don't have to be as sad that I can't chase them on the playground. But oh how I ache to hike with them this summer! Love your wit and humor and I'm looking forward to hearing more of your journey. 😊

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Oh Michelle! My heart goes out to you. Cancer is such a hard battle, especially at that stage. I wish there was something I could do for you. It's hard living in constant pain. Humor has helped me cope, but that doesn't make the journey a desirable one. Hang in there, despite it all. I'll be sending thoughts and prayers your way!

[@daryaavery999]

Loved your video and am happy KZbin recommended it to me! Your energy and attitude are inspiring and touching. Keep up on sharing your journey with us! Thank you!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thanks, Darya! I'm excited for next week's video.

[@stephanieshonestreviews2077]

wow your video was awesome. i love how you explain things and add them to your video. you gained a new subscriber!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Why thank you! And welcome! 😊

[@randylazer2894]

Thank you for sharing, you are a very good and caring person. Your words at the end were truly meaningful. When I watched your video, I thought of a friend of mine from many years back, Sara Reinertsen. She is an above the knee amputee, and the first female with that to have completed the Ironman Triathlon. I also think of a lady who with a prosthetic leg just set a world record for running a marathon everyday for more than 100 days. To share my favorite quote, that would be to "Follow your Dreams, and enjoy the Trip", or per Eliud Kipchoge, the GOAT of the marathon, "No human is limited". You obviously are an amazing mom, and are phenomenally strong, both mentally and physically. God bless, and keep going after whatever your goals may be.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thank you for your kind words, Randy! I think the hard experiences are often the ones that teach us the most. Sara and the other lady you mentioned are incredible. I think there's not much we can't do if we put our minds to it.

[@randylazer2894]

Your words are most appreciated, as all of us can go after our goals, seeking to be better and stronger each day.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

You're so right, Randy! None of us are perfect, but we can all try to to be just a bit better and work towards things that matter.

[@samelis6546]

I'm supposedly not into these amputee stuffs because I'm kind of a wimp and can't bear listening to these kind of stories but man, I love your personality and sass. You should make more videos on whatever else because your video and personality are entertaining and original (not much stock footages). I'd totally subscribe. Keep it up!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thanks, Sam! I'll take sass any day! And yes, I'm making more videos. The next one involves crashing a wheelchair while racing down a mountain. No joke.

[@samelis6546]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures wow! Looking forward to that👍

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

😁

[@BriswallYT]

Stephanina, I came across this on my recommended videos, and I took the time to watch it. It's very good, liked how you explained your journey with the heel bone fused to the other bone, and I wish you luck on your future. Stephanina, your baby is quite adorable and you even explained it to him when you had your left leg amputated. I've heard of amputations and I've seen some people even kids who had their limbs amputated. Once again, Good Luck!!!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thanks so much!

[@BriswallYT]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures No problem!

[@MichelleKiwiGirlCrawfordvocals]

Love your resilience and humour! 😊

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Aw, thanks!

[@loribrooks7964]

Best wishes to you on this journey. My guess is that there is a massive lawsuit which prohibits releasing information. All the best! Oh, and your baby boy is adorbs!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I'm biased, but I love my little guy too! As for the lawsuit, that's a loaded subject and I'm planning on making a video about it in a few weeks.

[@sharonchandler4185]

Very happy to find you. I'm a BBKA, one foot to MRSA, the other to Charcot Foot. You're inspiring.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

That's so hard. How recently were your feet amputated? How are you doing now?

[@sharonchandler4185]

First amp August 21, 2021, second amp Feb 16, 2022, revision on 2nd amp June 21. I'm up on both fake-o fake-o feet. Some pain, but dealing with it pharma wise, and exercising

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Sharon, I think you've met your quota of hard stuff. I vote that the rest of the year goes wonderfully for you.

[@wendyknox-niven9046]

I enjoyed your video and I’m sorry you had to go through that. I admire your courage and positivity. Wishing you well 💙

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thanks, Wendy! I think everybody has something hard. Mine is just more visible.

[@lindamarie6574]

Excellent video! Very informative, thank you!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Glad it was helpful!

[@leftymadrid]

You are simply incredible. Full of strength, love, a fantabulous woman indeed!! You got up many, many times while others would have fallen. You are all inspiring to great number of others. Hugs for you and your family from Madrid, Spain 🙂

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thank you for your kind words! I just want to encourage others to have hope, regardless of what they're going through.

[@dawnlynch7691]

Wow you are such a brave woman to go through all of that and have a baby as well I wish the best a future for you and your family keep up the good work

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Aw, thanks Dawn! That baby is amazing. (Though I guess he's a toddler now.) You'll meet my other two kids in future videos, but #3 is so chill and sweet. He informs me he's my doctor now. He's always trying to take care of mama.

[@user-hi6nm9od2l]

Liked and subbed I can’t wait to see your adventures good luck and keep positive

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thanks! I just uploaded a pretty good adventure about leaping out of a speeding wheelchair. True story! (Still can't believe it really is, though!)

[@melodywooten7537]

This is crazy!! You are the coolest, can’t wait for more of your story!!!!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Flatterer!

[@pinkflamingo5830]

Love this! I randomly just found your channel. I already love it!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I love making random friends! I think you'll have fun with tomorrow's video.

[@erictaylor5462]

As an amputee I have learned you need to focus on what you can do. Don't worry about what you can't do.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

So true! Otherwise life gets frustrating fast!

[@tinlunlau1]

Great video! Good way to introduce yourself. I'm not an amputee (yet) but I've got a boneless pinky toe now due to bone infection and my amputation is kinda up in the air at the moment.

[@SM-pr6um]

I'm so sorry you're going through that! Nobody should have to face that. My heart goes out to you and I hope they're able to find the best solution possible for you. My experience has been that amputation lived up to my expectation of being hard, but life didn't end with the loss of my foot. I appreciate the good things in life more than ever, and it's exciting overcoming obstacles. Hang in there! Are they talking about amputating the toe or the foot/leg?

[@tinlunlau1]

@@SM-pr6um it's just the toe which is really no big deal compared to getting a whole foot cut off.

[@SM-pr6um]

@@tinlunlau1 Cutting off anything is a big deal, but I'm glad it's not the rest of the foot.

[@tinlunlau1]

@@SM-pr6um how soon after amputation did you start having the phantom pain?

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

That's so stressful that you're going through that, Gary. Sometimes the uncertainty is one of the worst parts. I felt like I could cope if I had closure, but living for months not knowing what would happen was very hard. Here's hoping and praying that the doctors are able to beat the infection and avoid amputation and that they're able to find the best solution soon.

[@seanprice2990]

Sending my best wishes from Melbourne Australia 💪

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thanks! And sending best wishes your way too!

[@danielacordero3376]

this video is so well edited! I love the recreations haha

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Aw, thanks!

[@aineoconnell690]

Lying here on week 7 of the 12 non weight bearing your video suddenly popped up!! This is the third operation on my left foot and the consultant has basically said if it doesn’t work this time that we’ll be looking at amputation to give me back quality of life. I was at least able to get around before my first surgery in march 2020. It seems I’ve been in hard cast or air cast since then!! So I’m intrigued to see where your journey will now take you! Love from Ireland

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

That's grim. Reminds me of what I went through. I'm sorry you're in the middle of it, Aine. I hated the uncertainty. Whichever way things go, I've learned for myself that it's possible to still find happiness and have a good life, despite the challenges. Hang in there! I'll send some prayers your way and hope for the best.

[@harriekogel6312]

I am looking forward to your next video. I also watch footles Jo, also a woman Who lost her leg. Video's like these can help others how to continue on in there lifes.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I love Footless Jo! She's such an awesome person! As for the next video. . . it's already here! Just posted it tonight. :-)

[@vukilikena3616]

Stephanina, bravo! Kako ste hrabri! Divim vam sei.Zelim.Vam svaku srecu !

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Hvala vam na lijepim riječima!

[@jhors7777]

Thanks for posting this. Best wishes to you.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thanks! Same to you!

[@1992jamo]

Well that's scary. I had a drill bit removed from my foot before Christmas last year. My foot has slowly recovered, but I hope I never encounter a similar problem to you.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Woah! A drill bit? That sounds like there's a story behind it! I hope that your recovery keeps progressing, even if it's not fast. I'll keep you in my prayers!

[@magickaldust1213]

Recommended here from a Footless Jo video 💖

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I love Footless Jo!

[@srmrlr]

I injured my left ankle 5 years ago. Never healed right, and I kept re-injuring the ligaments and tendons. A couple months ago I had Tibial Talus Fusion and some metatarsal fusion. I had been interested in ankle replacement, but apparently I damaged the bottom of the tibia a bit too much for that. (First surgeon wouldn't even discuss replacement!). Background, I had left knee replaced 12 years ago, 6 level thoracic spine fusion 9 months later. Right achilles tendon repaired due to heel spur cutting just months before my left ankle injury. I had my right knee replaced about 20 months ago. Second surgeon was shocked when I asked about failure of the fusion. At what point do we discuss amputation and prosthetic to move forward. I think I shocked him with that. I do NOT want amputation, but I don't really fear it I think. Looking forward to more of your story!!!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Yikes! You've had so many surgeries! (I think you need a new hobby. . . me too, actually. Too many surgeries!) I had a non-union after my first foot surgery, but the doctor didn't do a CT to check for fusion failure. I went to a new doctor (who is wonderful), and he did the CT and saw the non-union. He and some other surgeons did a bunch of operations trying to undo the damage to my foot, but in the end it was just not possible. I reached a point where my function and quality of life was so low even with my foot attached that it became clear to me that things would be better with a prosthesis. It's such a hard call to make. I went with my gut feeling. I'm sorry you're in the middle of all that. The uncertainty was really hard on me. I felt like I could cope if I just knew which way things would go, but until I figure out how to tell the future, I was left in limbo.

[@srmrlr]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures I'm almost 12 weeks post TT fusion, so far everything seems on track. PT has been good, but I always do well in PT. Quality of life moving forward is far more important than living in pain, and why amputation and a prosthesis just doesn't scare me anymore. My outlook significantly changed after my bicycle crash where I destroyed my T9 vertebra. I'm lucky to even walk. That is why I chose to move forward with surgery instead of continuing with the AFO brace, knowing I'd be on pain meds before long. Yeah, my friends all think I need new hobbies as well. REALLY hoping this is my last surgery for a very long time.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

You're so right- quality of life is SO important. I think people sometimes forget that, and we all need something that makes us happy. Hobbies really help me deal with stress. Fingers crossed that this surgery is the last one you need in a very long time. Hang in there! You've been through so much. You can get through this too!

[@klasandersson7522]

Life has is with taking strange twists and turns... I´m not an amputee but in a powerwheelchair since 1 year for neurological reasons, not what I had planned for but thats life! 😜 I hope you get comfy and satisfied with your prosthesis so that you can get going like (Allmost like) before! And if it comes to that, get one in titanium, now that WOULD make you kick like a mule! 😉 Stay strong and don´t let the mini-ninja use the shuriken for a couple of years yet! 😎

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

You're right on so many points! The mini ninja likes to have sword fights with sticks, but you're right, he should at least be potty trained before giving him the shuriken! You're also so right about unexpected turns in life. I'm sure you never imagined ending up in a wheelchair, just like I didn't expect to lose a limb. I've spent most of the last year and a half in a wheelchair because my remaining foot keeps fracturing. I figure that when stuff happens that you can't control, about all you can do is roll with it. 👩🏻‍🦽 (Literally!) And lastly, you are the first person other than me to see the glorious kicking potential of a titanium leg! Muggers beware! I've got a steel club attached to my leg! (Or at least I will once my foot gets with the program.)

[@Ginger_Sweet]

I was in a power chair for 3 months and couldn’t stand it by the second month i started just walking on my splints and casts I didn’t care if my leg was broken if i had to get sucky surgery i just wanted my leg back my surgeon said i likely wouldn’t be able to walk 6 months to a year by month 4 as soon as my very last cast was removed i just started walking unassisted got my muscles working before they could atrophy anymore in the beginning my surgeon had said if the hardware didn’t work they would need to amputate or i would be in pain the rest of my life the thing is i already had fibromyalgia full body pain for the rest of my life I wasn’t running marathons or anything so wether it hurts or not I’m not letting them take it from me my fibro pain was like 70% worse than the break or the surgery was for me . This woman is stronger than i will ever be I’m happy to see she’s coping so well and teaching her kid about it .

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

You're incredible, Ginger, and so strong! Thank you for sharing your story. I hope that things go well for you. Keep on going!

[@proanimaluver6487]

He slept on in blissful ignorance....made me subscribe !! Your awesome

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

That makes me smile!

[@ravenrose6672]

I am also a Lbka, and I was born with bi lateral severe club feet with Arthrogryposis. First 2 surgeries before age 1. Age 15 arthritis said hello. Fast forward..age 47 fusion was done, but I developed Osteonecrosis which shattered my talus. Then a TAR was done...that failed and my talus was done. At age 51 I became an amputee and do not regret it for a second.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

That's a looong road! Ugh. My foot got arthritis before the end too. Also had a fusion, so I feel for you. I feel better with my foot off than I did when it was on (after it got messed up).

[@nancyschumacher8940]

What a story. I love the way you explained it to your son. It is hard for kids to understand why you can't just put a band aid on it and be good.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I tried so hard to tell him ahead of time, but he was only two and didn't understand. I have two older kids that you'll meet in other videos, and it was really hard on them. Thankfully they felt better after amputation because they saw that I'm still me. Sometimes the anticipation is harder to deal with than we realize.

[@erictaylor5462]

0:50 I did see a woman kick a dummy in the head once. Not sure if she was pregnant. The view came from a dash cam. The cam car was driving too fast and when he came around a turn a pedestrian in a cross walk was already in the street, the cam car was unable to stop in time and hit the woman. I don't think he was injured but she was holding her knee which clearly hurt. The driver gets out and starts yelling at the woman and when he shoves her she performs a beautiful kick to the man's head. He goes down and doesn't get back up. The woman fixes her hair and walks away. The description said the man eventually got back up and drive to the police station to report the assault. He shoed the police the video and was promptly arrested for assault. The police said the mystery woman was not identified but that was unneeded as the evidence for the assault (and reckless driving) charges was provided by the video, so kindly provided by the perpetrator.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

That's a crazy story! Whoa!

[@erictaylor5462]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures If you want to report an assault to the police, make sure you are not the one who is guilty. You can still be guilty even if you are the one who lost the fight.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Wise words!

[@LipstickDoll]

You are such a beautiful person from the outside and inside! I loved how you showed your little boy, that you lost a foot!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Telling him about my leg was so hard. He was too young to understand when I tried to tell him in advance. After the clip you saw, he kept saying, "mama's piggys broke." He's decided that he's my doctor now. He likes to help put on my leg and is always trying to take care of me. Love that little boy!

[@jeannie2548]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures Priceless! He is so precious! 🤗's

[@LipstickDoll]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures I can't even imagine how hard it must have been for you to tell your little boy what has happened to your foot. He seems like a very kind soul, that he helps you with your foot! : ) Keep up the good work in raising your little boy! :)))

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

It was hard, but we both adapted. He's an absolute sweetheart and insists that he's my doctor now.

[@honeybadger1621]

respects and hugs gretting from Istanbul Turkey. ❤

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Right back at you! And honey badgers are so cool!

[@MelanaC]

You are very funny! I adore your attitude to life, family and what has happened to you. (I mean…it’s actually pretty careless to lose you foot! But still…) I’m joking of course 🙏🏼 I hope your humour can accept mine ☺️ I look forward to learning more about your life and your journey. I also follow Footless Jo, and I love her content! I wish you all the best 🥰

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I really should take better care of my feet, especially after misplacing my spare. (Can't find it anywhere!) ;-) My sense of humor may be lame, but yours rocks. And yes, Footless Jo is incredible! Love her channel!

[@juanfootjohn2125]

So I lost A big toe and the metatarsal behind it. Things didn't heal well and after several months I asked about amputation of the whole foot. Y foot was amputated last Oct.8th. I have returned to y jujitsu class. It's been tough I was at brown 1 now I'm back to white. but I'm having A good time in class again.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Doing jujitsu makes you automatically cool! I'm trying to return to martial arts too (aikido and then hopefully back to taekwondo too). It's hard adapting, but I bet we can do it. Keep me updated on your progress. That's so awesome that there's another amputee martial artist.

[@juanfootjohn2125]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures You looked super smooth in you Aikido clips. I'm having trouble roiling back to my feet . the no ankle thing is tough.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I attended my first aikido seminar with a prosthetic. Rolling was super hard. I don't have a great solution yet, but it's something I'm going to work on and eventually make videos about. So far, the best way around the problem for me was to take my prosthesis off and roll one-legged. Only works on one side, but hey, it's a start.

[@malidixon7679]

You are an inspiration, can't wait for more

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thanks, Mali! I just posted a new one!

[@wrmlm37]

Just what I needed. I am contemplating a foot Amp secondary to pain. 2 Docs have refused meds, as they are AFRAID to prescribe, I assume. I have PN and restless legs. On my right foot, I am missing parts due to an accident at age 8. After 50 years of a healthy active life, except for increasing right foot pain, I am now considering this as lidocaine patches, otc pain relievers, neuro agents for neuropathy and a TENS unit I bought online, have failed to provide relief. I am in agony 5 nights out of 7, and 7 out of 7, if I do something which the foot doesn't like. I had 2 surgeries in 2020. I am now on Disability. I just want to walk with my dog, garden, and be able to clean my home. I am seeing a pain specialist on Thursday. If he offers nothing, you will have a right sided amputee in your "boat"! You have given me hope that at 59, this may ACTUALLY BE my best option. No foot, no pain, right? You have a great attitude which helped ME today. TY for sharing your experience. I assume there is more to come. BTW, your son is gorgeous! (FYI: I spent 25 years as a nurse, medicating patients with opioids and other drugs for the conditions I have, but since the dosing guidelines changed in 2016, by the CDC, Docs will not prescribe for me. They are concerned, as am I, about addiction issues, but for this I should lose my foot? We'll see what this Doc sez...)

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I'm glad my story helped you but so sorry you're going through that. I completely relate to just wanting to walk my dogs or push my kids on a swing. The simple things make a big difference. Like you, I dealt with constant pain, which got even worse after CRPS set in. Amputation isn't pain free, especially in the first few months, but I'm in less pain now than I was before. Since every person's situation is unique, talking with qualified doctors and getting multiple opinions is a great thing to do. For me, after listening to several doctors I followed my gut and haven't regretted my decision. There's no easy out of situations like yours or mine, but I firmly believe that we can still have hope and push through the hard times. Hang in there. You'll be in my prayers.

[@BrigitteNP]

You are inspirational 💖

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Shucks! Thank you!

[@karensheehan2878]

Wow, that sucks. But a good lesson in when to leave good enough alone. Those first surgeons really stuffed up.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I definitely learned a lot... the hard way.

[@erictaylor5462]

2:45 I was lucky enough to have problems with my right foot, so the doctor was sure to amputate the right leg. It does make it hard to get off on the right foot though.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thankfully for me, Lefty left, but my other foot is all right. Literally.

[@95mudshovel]

as a disabled Jiujitsu practitioner, I 100% get the addiction to the mats. I just don't stand up on the mats and adapt moves. it works. martial arts are great for us. 🙂

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

You're so right! Mats are the most awesomely addictive place to be. I've been back on an aikido mat. I think taekwondo would be easier with a running blade. I've thought about trying new martial arts, most especially jujitsu, to see what they're like with one leg. I've had some jujitsu classes in the past and liked it. (Our school invited a jujitsu instructor to come for some cross training. We learned his stuff and it was great exposure to another art.)

[@95mudshovel]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures I think of all the martial arts, Jiujitsu would be the least impacted by your amputation. there's loads of one leg practitioners. 🙂

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Exactly. I've looked into it for that reason. The hard part is that I'm still in love with my other martial arts, which are more leg intensive.

[@queeny5613]

This was in my reccomneds and wow

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Aw, thanks Queeny!

[@Writerbyhand]

You should do a collab with Footless Jo!

[@michaelzukor8364]

So sorry to hear of your foot problem. A real shame

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thanks, Michael. Life definitely didn't go the way I had in mind, but I've learned so much along the way.

[@nieskespears836]

You are strong!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Aw, thanks! Also, your first name is beautiful. Where does it come from?

[@nieskespears836]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures thank you! It is Dutch, it rooted in the name Agnes.

[@marystacey4796]

Love your story.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thanks, Mary!

[@poppoppa5052]

Check out youtube videos of Hugh Herr. He was a world class climber who had to have amputations on both legs and now has a business which enables amputees to receive replacements with computer controlled attachments to muscles and nerves. Amazing stories.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I've heard of him! He's incredible. I wish the equipment he uses was more broadly available. Maybe someday. It's incredible how quickly technology advances.

[@lucasmartin41]

Awesome. something similar happened to me and I also made a video on youtube💪😊

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I just checked out your channel and subscribed. Love your workouts!

[@hp7093]

Good video. I wonder what. T h e ourtcome would have been had you not had the 1st surgery? We take so much for g ran t Ed

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Excellent question. I'm working on a video that goes over that.

[@DizzymonkeyYT]

Do you deal with Phanthom pain or anyone reading this? Is the pain from phanthom worse than your original pain and how long did it last?

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Great question. The phantom pain started about a week after amputation. (My most recent video mentions what phantom sensation was like in the first week and when it changed to phantom pain.) It got really intense two weeks after amputation and stayed intense for a few weeks. Eight weeks post-op I felt like things turned a corner and really started to improve. My friend who had the same amputation two months after me followed the same time line. At a year post amputation, I occasionally get a zap but most of the time it isn't too bad.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

The phantom pain from week 2 until week 8 was harder for me than the pain in the stump. It's not fun, but it definitely improves with time. This is a topic is on my list of videos I want to make, but hopefully this information helps in the meantime. Are you facing amputation?

[@mystictrue2400]

Yes... My mum did the same. Take me in the 1970 in Delmenhorst to fighting sport. But karate teacher in 1978 1990.say to her I am to young for fight sport. But Mum and I don't listen.... And learn... Sports Are great... And its never jung.. To kik bad people in The xxxxx. 👍

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Lol. Your mum sounds great!

[@CJGfarm]

Wow. Would you still have your leg if it wasn't for the first surgery? I damaged a tendon in the bottom of my foot 4 years ago and a podiatrist told me to keep walking on it. Well that caused more damage and it will never heal now. I know other people with the same injury that were given crutches and told not to bare weight for 6 weeks and they are all better. Sometimes doctors really suck at their jobs.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Without that first surgery, I'd definitely still have my leg. A few months after that surgery I had a situation similar to yours where the podiatrist told me to keep walking on my foot, but there was something seriously wrong with it. I'm sorry you ended up with permanent damage. That's awful! Not all doctors are created equal. My current podiatrist is excellent, but that first one drastically altered the course of my life.

[@mikeelya5508]

I lost my leg when I was 23 yrs old.52 now.When you get older is when you start having troubles

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I've reflected on that. Amputation takes a toll on the body, and I'm assuming that the longer it lasts, the more it adds up.

[@philip5798]

That applies to everyone not just amputees. Our bodies are depreciating assets.

[@rachelfrahm829]

Cute baby. Best to you

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thank you!

[@miasoloproductions]

Kitty's a natural actress

[@SM-pr6um]

So true! A real diva!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Kitty is a skilled actress, but she charges an arm and a leg. Thankfully I was able to convince her to only take half.

[@lexycjune5684]

“Defeat…. Or rather deFOOT” got me laughing much a great video !

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Got my husband to roll his eyes, but at least enlightened people like you enjoy my puns! :-)

[@yessigabi12]

If it isn't broken, don't try to fix it. If you only had minor discomfort, and could live life normally, then you definitely didn't need that first surgery. Maybe just lower the intensity of your workouts/sport

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

That is SO true! At the time I was naive and blindly trusted the doctor. Since then, other medical professionals have said that the surgery shouldn't have been done since I was clearly doing well. I was able to run fast but just needed to run laps the other direction, which is easy to do. I hope that my story will help other people think twice before making the same mistake.

[@yessigabi12]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures obviously it isn't your fault, the normal thing to do is trust doctors. It is good to see you are adjusting well to the prosthesis.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thanks! And yes, sometimes we're a little too quick to give trust before it's earned.

[@supernanny2436]

You've got a beautiful name.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thanks, Judy! I have my Italian grandmother to thank for my name.

[@erictaylor5462]

You can still be an enthusiastic martial artist. I should know, I have 49 years experience as an amputee.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

That's a long time! I bet you've had some incredible experiences. I'm looking forward to continuing martial arts and other activities I love. (I broke my other foot and am waiting for it to hurry up and heal so I can go kick things again.)

[@erictaylor5462]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures I had to have surgery on my foot a few years back Inconvenient AF especially as it was the 3rd time I had to have this surgery. The funny part was when the nurse came in and wanted to mark my foot to make sure the surgery was performed on the correct foot. The look on her face when O pulled the covers back, saying I didn't think that would be a problem was so funny. Still the poor woman marked my foot which gave the surgeon a good laugh. He said he would have been clued in it was the wrong foot as it would have been on the floor. Failing that the screaming would have clued him in as there was only one anesthetized foot in the room. If you have to get anything done with your foot, find a doctor with experience working with amputees. It makes a big difference. They will make sure they do it right the first time.

[@erictaylor5462]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures Have you seen Footless Jo? She is from Colorado and has recently slowed down he production due to some personal troubles, but she does Taekwondo as an amputee and has an extensive history of videos. kzbin.info

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

That's hilarious! I always wrote "not this one" on the other foot, just to be on the safe side. Since amputation, my remaining foot has had multiple stress fractures. When I tell people hear I have a broken foot, they always ask which one. Makes me laugh every time. I usually encourage them to take a wild guess.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I love Footless Jo! I thought she was into jujitsu, though. I'll have to go back and rewatch when she talks about martial arts. I keep hoping she'll make a video about it. I really liked her video about biking. I was trying to figure out which foot to start pedaling with and stuff like that. Then, right when I needed it, she posted a video about biking. Love her channel!

[@fionakent3083]

Had my right leg amputated 3 years ago & its totally destroyed every part of my life, now i cant wait to die. Here in england, the prosthetics are totally crap !!!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I know the feeling. I like looking on the bright side, but the life I had before got decimated. It's really hard to deal with that kind of loss. I'm sorry you're in the middle of it too. I got my prosthetic, but then my remaining foot broke multiple times so I've hardly been able to use it.

[@allaboutroofing2]

0:28 even she knows he jumped flipped. Physics 101.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Physics are the best.

[@allaboutroofing2]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures I love your positive reply. just subbed. 👍

[@mariodriessen9740]

My hopes are with the axolotls. Stay strong. It sucks to be an amputee. ❤️

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

On the upside, as an amputee I've really cut back on sock laundry. 😉

[@mariodriessen9740]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures : So true! And we’re one of the few who can put lights in our legs. I do this all the time. 😬🤩

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

My prosthesis also makes an excellent cup holder!

[@ЛюбовьДубовик-с9ц]

Умница, 👏👏👏

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Спасибо!

[@jamesm.3967]

Wow, being an American is not a great thing sometimes. Why is a “deductible” a factor in healthcare? Because it is private insurance. Profits over people.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I know, right?! Seriously!

[@kaygall4973]

Your body was giving you a message. Exercise less and give the foot a break. Your body was built the way it was for a reason.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I've definitely learned to listen to my body better.

[@kaygall4973]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures Good luck with your health and I wish you all the best with both of your legs. Great sense of humor by the way. I am happy you have a prosthesis so you can still have some fun.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thanks, Kay!

[@Catlady003]

❤❤

[@sweeneytod1]

Something not right about this. Difficult to pin down what went wrong. If she had taken a different route to fitness she might have saved her foot. I have multiple issues physically but I am 62 haha. I don't do things that hurt. Running is the worst I think.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Hindsight is always 20/20.

[@Corgi_Repairs]

not a joke - where does the leg go?

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

To an incinerator.

[@TheBigBadLen]

I just had a knee recon sounds like you had a bunch of lemons as doctors

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I'm sorry you're going through that. I definitely had some bad doctor experiences, but now I have some awesome docs. Wish I'd known them from the start! I hope you're able to find some great docs.

[@vernondavis6095]

sorry you had to go through that

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thanks, Vernon! I figure we're all going through something.

[@vernondavis6095]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures yes for me it copd and all that causes

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

That's a hard one, Vernon. Hang in there!

[@naxel37]

Well made video!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Thanks! I'm still learning.

[@ronalddonner3396]

I would not want to change places with that dummy-I'm no dummy!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Everyone thinks he's a dummy, when in reality the only reason he gets kicked in the head is because he can't block or run away. No hands, no feet. (He's an amputee too!) 😉

[@freqeist]

Still cant believe Americans have to pay for medical bills !

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

No kidding!

[@ronunderwood8099]

Going Wednesday to see if they can tell what is causing my foot to hurt.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Good luck! I hope they can solve the problem!

[@ronunderwood8099]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures I hope so. My Grandad lost both of his legs to poor circulation. Most of his siblings, I think there was 8 or 10) also lost a leg or two. Not real great family history.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

That's rough! What did the doctor say? Good news, I hope?

[@ronunderwood8099]

@@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures Good pulse Said I have insertions Achilles tendinitis. I have to wear a boot when not at work.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

SOOO glad to hear it's good news! Hope you heal fast!

[@maxp9598]

Foot surgey are dangerious

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I really underestimated the risk involved when the first doctor suggested surgery. Feet have so many nerves, tendons, etc. and bear so much weight and strain, that they're really complicated.

[@theblankyblankness]

Looks like the south west ish.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

That's right-ish.

[@theotis111]

That’s crazy a bad bone in your foot , and you amputated it , confused

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Basically I wanted arch supports but the doctor said I needed surgery, but it went horribly wrong. I had a ton of complications that I didn't get into in the video (because I thought it'd be too long if I explained in detail). I plan on explaining this in a future video, but by the time we amputated (with a much better team of doctors), my foot was completely unusable, the circulation was going out, a severe nerve condition set in, the bones and tendons were breaking. All sorts of drama that wouldn't have happened if I hadn't had that first surgery. Some of the issues could spread up my leg, so we had to amputate before it spread to my knee, because being an above knee amputee is harder than below knee. Does that make more sense?

[@duggydugg3937]

holy toledo ., wooh

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Lol!

[@valeforedark]

Like because bone sock

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

Everybody needs a good pair of bone socks. . . preferably with no bones missing!

[@Brainwashedmorons69]

That's a bummer but you're still better off Tham millions. You're alive and have a beautiful child that needs you.

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

I completely agree. Every day I see many reasons to feel gratitude, and my kids are at the top of the list.

[@Writerbyhand]

You should do a collab with Footless Jo!

[@StephaninasAmputeeAdventures]

That would be so awesome! I'm such a newbie though, and she's such an amazing poster girl for the amputee community.