Why I Can NEVER Shave My Legs Again?? (Post-Amputation)

I was shocked to find out that I could never shave again after this - WHY would it matter what you do with shaving after amputation?
More Taboo Topics: • Let's Talk About Drugs...
#amputee #amputation #shavingmyleg
----------------------------------------------------
WANT TO SUPPORT THIS CHANNEL? //
Thank you SO much for considering supporting my channel! I use Patreon to offer further community and personal rewards in return for your patronage - check it out at / jobeckwith
If you’d like to chip in as a one-time donation, I truly appreciate that more than you know, and you can find the ability here: paypal.me/footlessjo
Lastly, if you’d like me to send a video message to you or a loved one saying whatever you’d like, you can find me on Cameo at www.cameo.com/footlessjo!
THANK YOU so much!
MERCH!
teespring.com/stores/footless...
----------------------------------------------------
CONNECT WITH ME //
Instagram: / footlessjo
Twitter: / footlessjo
Facebook: / footlessjo
Tik Tok: @FootlessJo
My Website: www.footlessjo.com
My 2nd Channel: / jo2am
----------------------------------------------------
CONTACT ME //
MY P.O. BOX:
Jo Beckwith
3578 Hartsel Drive #615
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
E-MAIL ME:
www.footlessjo.com/contact
----------------------------------------------------
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 is to document my journey of amputation surgery, recovery, and reclaiming my life.
MY PROSTHETIC LEG:
I use the Ossur ProFlex XC Torsion foot/ankle with a direct socket with passive vaccum suction.
MY STORY ON SCREEN:
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...
----------------------------------------------------
MY EQUIPMENT //
Camera - Canon EOS M6 (Video Creator Kit): amzn.to/2OVcjim
Camera Mic - Rode VideoMic: amzn.to/33FPanU
Sitting Mic - Blue Yeti Mic: amzn.to/33GJOsW
Gorilla Pod: amzn.to/32oGWjU
Ring Light: amzn.to/2nTRBEr
CONTRIBUTE SUBTITLES! //
Want to help my videos become more accessible to viewers around the world? Use this link to contribute subtitles and translations!
kzbin.info_cs_p...
MY MUSIC & CREDITS //
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!

[@undecidedgenius]

Cakes was trying to show you that she doesn't shave her legs either (she's so supportive)

[@samhalfpenny5096]

Omg that is so perfect! I love that thought

[@undecidedgenius]

@@samhalfpenny5096 (blushes)Thank you 😊

[@UKnowMeIMURDaddy]

Apples

[@undecidedgenius]

@@UKnowMeIMURDaddy I like trains?

[@wiktoriakos2597]

Wholesome af :D

[@brunaluiza118]

I never write youtube comments, but this video made me very emotional. When I was 14 I was in an accident and the doctors told me they would have to amputate my leg in the exact same spot as yours. I was a ballet dancer and that was devastating. My mom called every single doctor she could find and finally one of them came to the hospital and saved my leg. I sometimes forget how lucky I am. You're such a beautiful person. I really appreciate how open you are about your story.

[@carol_1237]

Wow! What a great story! I'm glad that he could save your leg

[@FTW60]

I love learning and your channel is up there with the best. Your so open and honest and you talk about things I had never thought about. Being an old guy I don't think about women shaving let alone an amputee. But it gave me a new appreciation for those that have to go through such things. Thanks for allowing me to bring others into the conversation when I ask did you know ???? Love your spirit and your husband has to be a great man as well. Be blessed for all of those you have blessed with your life.

[@ANNA-wr7or]

That was a really good story hope you are feeling better then ever ❤️you are such an inspiration to others that have had amputation and that is awesome that he could save your leg and hope you're having a great life you are such an amazing wonderful kind awesome person from what i think if i ever met you it would be like ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@ilikereesespcs1256]

Good man props

[@ScutoidStudios]

I am so happy you got to keep your leg!

[@LovelyConan]

I was surprised when you said that the back of your leg was the hairiest part. My legs are most hairiest just above my ankle all around my leg with little to no hair at the back of my calf. People are all different in every kind of ways possible and still it's the smallest things that make you realise how true that really is.

[@foxtrotcharlie6044]

😅my legs are hairy around the knees lol!! I have foot drop or drop foot and had a tendon transfer where they rearranged the L to R tendon to move up and down and hair barely grows on that leg

[@ghostratsarah]

I have a strip of dark grass along the outsides of the front of my calf, a moderate amount on the front lining my shin bone, hardly any on the inside, a little bit just above my ankle in the back, and invisible peach fuzz covering the back. 1/3 of my leg is a field and 1/3 is barren. From my knees up is all peach fuzz. Until you get to my armpits. I thought it was the same for everyone. I heard someone say they thought you were only supposed to shave the back of your legs and I have been so confused ever since. I just learned that hair patterns are not all the same

[@Chronically_JBoo]

My knees the front are hariest. I don't heal well so I use tweezers instead of shaving

[@michellel5402]

That surprised me too! Same thing for me, hairy legs, but very little at the back of my calf

[@miglek9613]

Yeah, the front of my calf is also the hairiest part of the leg for me, as well as the bottom back part of my calf, right below the muscle, everything else barely grows any hairs, even after years of not shaving I can't get anything to grow anywhere else

[@666toysoldier]

As a retired surgical technologist, I've seen lots of amputations, and yours was done very well, with an excellent outcome.

[@emilysmith2965]

Unfortunately, she had two. The first one was fine surgically, but she had a serious fall a few weeks afterward (and sued a restaurant for having a greasy floor and no signs… the settlement was better than nothing, but not a fully favorable outcome). So there eventually had to be a second amputation due to that fall. She has a separate video talking about that now that any NDAs surrounding the claim have expired. The American legal system is such a joke. Definitely recommend the video, though.

[@JimmyJoines]

New tip for ya: My wife splits the seam of my jeans and puts in a zipper so i can remove my leg in public and not have to drop my trowsers. Helps tremendously to be able to give my stump a breather.

[@salenebrom6476]

Interesting

[@saskia8052]

wow so helpfull

[@codename495]

That’s such a creative solution! Smart lady.

[@monal1517]

She is definitely a keeper!

[@junbh2]

That makes so much sense!

[@catdragonrose2155]

the mic picked up some of the purrs. I'm dead. she's so cute.

[@FootlessJo]

ISN'T SHE THE BEST FLUFF EVER!? 🐈

[@saulemaroussault6343]

Footless Jo she iiiis ! My heart is so full right now !

[@MattCoversTech]

I heard it! So relaxing.

[@jcs6206]

Not fat, that's just how Norwegian Forest Cats (or Siberian, not sure which Cake is) are built and how they look different than most other cat breeds - kinda like a bulldog vs a grayhound.

[@stuchly1]

And her name is cakes 😭😭😭

[@c.garcia3737]

Being disabled is hard….I’m blind and don’t know why people don’t want to support me(just love me unconditionally) So in my opinion we need this channel to feel like there are other people out there who can understand what I am (we) are going through…..so thankful for your channel! I lost everything when I went blind….my wife died and now I am all alone and I struggle just to live a decent life….this channel gives me hope so thanks again for this share.

[@SaraRankins.]

You should check out Molly Burke!

[@ElizabethElfgrove]

How did you type this comment then? OH- maybe you have a special device?? Edit 3 months later: I just wanna make sure you guys know that the special device thing wasn’t sarcastic or me mocking anyone, I had never looked into extended ability phones so I genuinely thought they were using a special device, sorry!

[@c.garcia3737]

@@ElizabethElfgrove i use the voice recorder thank for judging me

[@ElizabethElfgrove]

@@c.garcia3737 wait I’m confused how did you put the dots and how did you see my reply then? Btw, I technically didn’t judge, I caught myself.

[@Gracejkay]

@@ElizabethElfgrove smartphones have accessibility options for those with vision impairments or are blind. You are able to move your finger across the screen of the phone, but it will audibly tell the person what is on the screen. And of course I’m sure that after some time, even positions on the buttons will be memorized without the audible part. I suggest watching Molly Burke on KZbin demonstrate this. In a Minute, i may look for a video and link it in a second comment.

[@sammy6859]

I can kind of relate to this, I became diabetic at a young age and one of the risks of that is poor healing and increased infection risk, especially on the lower extremities. Never really had any issues before but I recently nicked above my ankle shaving, the most superficial wound and it’s taken me 6 weeks to get to the scarring stage. Haven’t shaved since, doesn’t seem worth it.

[@insignificantopinions3210]

have you considered depilatory creams?

[@TheRockInnRobin]

There’s always waxing… professionally. The sanitary requirements are mandated by the state you live in and treatment for follow up.

[@kpopgirl1992]

@@insignificantopinions3210 THIS. I have never shaved in my life, I’ve only ever used depilatory creams. They work amazingly well, never gave me ingrowns, and it lasts far longer than shaving (about 2-3 weeks before I shave again). My legs are much smoother too.

[@mindianaj0nes]

@@kpopgirl1992 Huh. This makes me want to try it. Is there a particular brand or process you recommend?

[@kpopgirl1992]

@@mindianaj0nes I use Veet! It's the best brand out there. There's another Japanese brand I use but I can't remember it atm. The process is the same no matter the brand - apply it on generously (make sure all the hair is coated), wait 3-6 minutes (depending on what the brand recommends - read the instructions!), scrape it off with the plastic spatula that comes with the product, and then rinse it off with warm water. However, depilatory creams only work when the leg hair is fairly long, so it will require you to grow out the leg hair you do have before you use it. but I promise it's worth it! You won't need to shave for another 2-3 weeks.

[@alanowa123]

TL;DR: That rubber condom that holds prosthesis to her leg is very good environment for bacteria, so having any micro wounds after shaving can go very bad.

[@whatocallmyself5614]

that’s another way condoms give protection I guess

[@foskfismfus]

Thank you

[@ebony3419]

@@whatocallmyself5614 not in that case she had a small cut/abrasion. It wouldn't protect her. 👾

[@MsTinkerbelle87]

That’s what she said though why did you write this comment? We aren’t stupid 😑

[@roxypicasso66]

@@MsTinkerbelle87 i mean i get that the point is to watch the whole video and learn, but they’re just summing it up in case anyone can’t actually finish the video 😂

[@dominiclawrence6963]

Back of my mind: why is this in my recommend. Part of the brain that likes to learn: I don't care that I don't need to know this, it's still informational.

[@OmfgHiii]

curiosity

[@sophielorber4571]

Sammmmmeeeee

[@gwinnellheald8592]

Me

[@kavlara]

Informative?

[@melvinjansen2338]

*the future looks bleak*

[@psleep4255]

I’m not an amputee so this is going to sound odd. I’ve had very little body hair my entire life so I always felt embarrassed bc I shaved my legs, etc. once or twice a year. When I had both knees replaced the doctor told me not to shave my legs before the procedure. At first I was puzzled but too embarrassed to ask why. Now I know why. Ty for being so amazingly honest. ❤️ p.s. that was 5 yrs ago. 🤣

[@Edna2u]

Im not very hairy either. I go weeks or months without shaving my legs. I do however has a bit of fine hair on the top of my feet. I wear socks at all times. If i don't shave that hair it starts to hurt.

[@sk22-12]

I'm jealous, I'm super hairy 😂

[@YouDontKnowAsMuchAsYouThinkUDo]

You were too embarrassed to ask your doctor a medical question when you had your knees replaced? 🙄 What's wrong with you? Were you dropped on your head or are you just THAT shallow? 🤦‍♀️🤮

[@sk22-12]

@@YouDontKnowAsMuchAsYouThinkUDo Hey, maybe this person had their reasons to feel uncomfortable asking questions. Maybe the doctoe was a jerk, or maybe they were just announced that they needed to get their knees replaced and were not thinking straight. We don't know, so no need to be rude...

[@achiblitz_]

@@YouDontKnowAsMuchAsYouThinkUDo don’t be rude, maybe they had a reason like they were uncomfortable to ask

[@watchth1ngs]

You’re doing an amazing job at explaining, demystifying and just generally showing us the reality of your life as a person sans limb. Total respect.

[@quinnoq1642]

nobody: youtube algorithm: amputees can‘t shave their legs!

[@michaelmcdowell8724]

That's literally how I ended up here and I have no idea why I watched the whole thing. But at least I learned something new today lol

[@saintguardian3639]

Exactly the same thing. I watched it because of curiosity but first time I've seen an amputee video. I always talk to people who have had this happened.

[@abmong]

I was watching a lot of cat rescue videos... Maybe that's the link?

[@binladen4400]

It's because they don't have a leg to shave

[@ccanime36]

I've been watching a lot of Sims 4 building and VanossGaming Uno videos. How is that a link? xD

[@konankid2340]

Title: why i can never shave my leg again Me: is it because it isnt there??

[@LifeInABoxorigin]

This made me laugh so hard. :)

[@thebearded4427]

holy crap! i read the intro to that and then bursted out in laughter just imagining you sitting there confused with that conundrum! Huge thanks for making my evening a bit better :D

[@JaysonM-]

I'm dead lol

[@taliehughes4341]

This is the funniest comment I’ve seen today

[@thehighpriestess8431]

not funny

[@jennferrell6118]

I love your videos. My mother became an amputee in 2008 and she passed in 2016. It was due to diabetic complications and I'm also diabetic. Mom was 62 when she passed and I'm now 47 and the fact that I may, at some point, become an amputee, I find your videos very informative. My mother didn't shave often, but when it began to really bother her, she would. She did have a prosthetic, but she rarely wore it as it was very painful. When she was being fitted for the prosthetic, it was discovered that her leg, amputated like yours at just below the knee, was done wrong. There are 2 bones in that area of the leg and one gets cut a little shorter than the other. Her bones were severed wrong. The wrong bone was left too long while the other was cut shorter and so wearing her leg was extremely painful.

[@veryrandomartworkwithavery2917]

I love how open and positive you are about your story

[@Imerinel]

Petition for Cakes to appear in every video. thanks. 😉😻

[@FootlessJo]

I have approved your petition and Cakes is considering your request. 😉🐈

[@Allan_aka_RocKITEman]

@@FootlessJo >>> You saved me the trouble of saying, _"SECOND!"_ 😊

[@brrjohnson8131]

Cat tax!

[@Allan_aka_RocKITEman]

@@brrjohnson8131 >>> _"Cat tax"?_

[@ChattyYas]

I didn't see any hair.... I'm clearly a gorilla 😂

[@imnotokay7046]

Chatty Yaz i think she’s blonde, so the hairs are blonde and not really visible from far away (sometimes they shine in the sun like glitter, its weird)

[@lozzylols]

If my legs looked as good as that I'd go around hairy a lot more often lol. Sadly my hairs are black, thick and stick straight out lol

[@Todomo]

I'm not okay bro i’m blonde and my hairs are DARK and THICK like wth

[@LdangerB]

Me too. My hair is so black 😭

[@markeharris5487]

I LOVE how open you are. I have learned soooo much watching you

[@MIKEMAKESTHINGS]

As a retired doctor here are a few options I have seen for hair removal. 1) waxing 2) suggaring 3)laser hair removal 4) depilatory creams . I like the suggaring. If you do it regularly, your hair follicles adapt and the hairs get easier to pull out. You don't really have to shave it anyway. Decide what you like not what someone else wants. I don't know if shaving your leg will make it feel hotter in the prosthesis. I usually cut my hair short, 1/2 inch. Once I decided to shave my head, thinking it would feel cooler. Surprise, it actually made my head feel hot. I think the short hair wicked some of the sweat up, but without it, it just sat on my skin and felt hot.

[@Musashi246]

"I can't shave my legs anymore" -> Has legs with nearly invisible hair....

[@eyiapandora3933]

Out of interest, if amputees wanted to, can they be allowed to have laser hair removal (maybe with limited prosthetic wear in the following few days)? Is that considered a safe option with a prosthetic?

[@violetheise4717]

Or what about electric shavers which can't cut the skin?

[@jaggedjaws1586]

Or the more expensive option compared to lazer hair removal: Electrolysis?

[@martaleszkiewicz5115]

@@violetheise4717 this can still cause ingrown hairs in the long run

[@Shadowkid10271]

@@violetheise4717 Saying this as someone who has very delicate skin due to a medical condition, electric razors can still cut your skin

[@kennethliebel4449]

As a LBK i will say it works. Night and day difference in the health of my residual

[@debbiemoore9104]

I love watching you. Your sense of humor and courage is absolutely refreshing. Thank you for all of your videos.

[@Goadenhomestead]

My dad lost his arm, just below the elbow, I remember his arm that the prosthetics would attach to, was always hairless. He lost it when I was very young so I always remember him with his prosthetic. Thank you for your videos and taking some of the taboo away from amputees. ❤️

[@Dingomush]

Shaving skin also leaves micro cuts that you can’t see. They warned me not to shave a spot before applying a Fentanyl patch for that reason.

[@amazingabby25]

No one told me that, that’s not good I had no idea. Thank you

[@bradleyvasquez1]

Damn bro, you getting lit lit✊✊

[@Ruthavecflute]

Makes sense. I'm having to use a pain relief patch at the moment and the areas the leaflet said are ok to place it are all away from areas people often shave.

[@MrJstorm4]

That sounds like a reason to shave the side of the fentanyl patch

[@victoriahope8371]

It's stupid to remove hair in general just for asthetics. The cost, time, and pain, and health hazards? It's like smoking tobacco but for the skin. #raisethehairremovaltax #freepadsandtamponsinstead.

[@WantedTomato]

Cakes has a fine running motor. 10/10 cat.

[@ferdinandhumperdinck165]

Indeed. Purring helps with everything, even Videos. ^^

[@proudcynophile1901]

❤️❤️🐈

[@agoogleuser7126]

This lady is golden!! So open,informative,and has a great spirit about her.

[@badindiegamer]

The way you address us in the beginning of your videos feels so genuine and real and it makes me feel good about myself, thank you

[@LinwoodBlackmore]

When you touch the relocated calf muscle, does it still feel like you're touching the back of your leg?

[@opalescentrosesb.w.3774]

I have a friend who is an amputee and he says that's exactly how it feels!

[@opalescentrosesb.w.3774]

I have a friend who is an amputee and he says that's exactly how it feels!

[@Ebbagull]

@@opalescentrosesb.w.3774 😳 What a mindf*ck! Cool, though! 😊👍🏻

[@fashionablyfakeinga6732]

I don’t feel that, but everyone’s different. I will feel my foot is wet sometimes when I shower

[@latisha334]

I had to feel the back of my leg to remember what it felt like compared to the front

[@emmaswanson8859]

It’s makes so much sense why you shouldn’t shave but I never would’ve thought about that before

[@Dontcare_at_all]

I just saw you in a commercial! Glad your blowing up. People learn a lot from this and thats rad

[@chantellefieldhouse9124]

I really appreciate your videos. I am a newer amputee and still learning the ins and outs of prosthetics.

[@saramae8704]

I'm in love with Cakes. What was this video about again? I saw only a pile of beautiful orange fur. Ironic because it's supposed to be about shaving...

[@Boe-Temeraire]

Huh, I never realised that this was a thing, but it makes a lot of sense when I think about it. Also the purrs that the mic picked up killed me with the cuteness!! 😍

[@Kirgaby]

That flaaaaaaaaag. Hi.

[@AstridCrash]

Really appretiate that you're willing to share your story. It really helps people understand what you're going through and thus also what other people are going through. Some people might not feel comfortable talking about it even when asked

[@tysonprice]

thank you for being so open about your life/procedures I feel great about your upbeat attitude please be well and keep it up!

[@Dem0nD0ll]

02:11 Cake is showing that none of her body is shaved :D Your videos are so fascinating! I would have never thought about not being able to shave my leg. But the explanation makes complete sense!

[@karagregory69]

I was drinking from a water bottle and I nearly spit it out laughing at the exact moment you talking about hairy leg and about to show it, and a very hairy cat totally stole the spotlight. I'm sure a metaphor is in there somewhere ... in all seriousness, thanks for sharing your story and its such an inspiration with all your positive energy. I believe attitude is everything. I love to see your updates.

[@Melimelo04]

Thank you so much! I'm learning so much with you. I love the fact you're educating us on a soft way and without taboo. Thanks a lot

[@sarahgaylee]

Woah you’ve been on KZbin for a couple years. Glad the algorithm brought you to my way! I’m not an amputee but I’ve learned so much from your channel. Appreciate ya lady!

[@Bwahahahablast]

Okay I've been an amputee for 12 years and most of that time I've been in a wheelchair due to chronic wound issues. But I'm getting ready to start PT and getting casted for a prosthetic and this is super helpful! I didn't even consider this but the that will probably save me from wounds in the future tysm for pointing it out ❤

[@spaceracer23]

It's been a year. Here's hoping you're PT went well.

[@cathcoll7961]

I am legally blind Due to that my husband shaves my legs now At first it was very strange Now 8 years in It’s like we got this

[@TheSchnieder6]

"Hey babe, would you shave my legs?" "Is, is that a sex thing?" "NO! I'M BLIND!" "Right, of course, sure. Let's, uh, let's go do that then."

[@animeaftermidnight2765]

But you can literally feel the hair on your legs, I can't see my leg hairs, my sight is bad enough, I just feel for where they are and run the razor over where I feel them. Easy peasy.

[@cathcoll7961]

I tried to do mine once. Cut myself So never again Hubby happy to

[@alicia_hohoho]

This is so sweet!!

[@UKnowMeIMURDaddy]

Does he also shave your beaver, your snatch, your snappy nappy dug out?

[@fitwithartin]

I love how passionate you are in doing what you’re doing. Your sense of humor and the way you talk is also very entertaining. All the best wishes:)

[@LyndaMarie929]

I’m a new subscriber. Thank you for being so open and honest about the additional challenges of being an amputee. I have a dear friend who is facing a leg amputation due to cancer. I will be passing along this video.

[@jamigrace720]

After spending weeks holding ice to my head at work and not sleeping, I finally caved and saw a Dr about my neck pain. With chronic illness, it seems like as soon as I tell a Dr somethings wrong it turns out to be nothing, so I've learned to just wait it out. Welp, turns out I have spinal degeneration along with a neck sprain. Sometimes it seems like right when you get used to the "program" the rules change. Love this community of people who get it.

[@xyyrjhao1542]

wow, my first thought was like: okay there wouldn't be enough suction anymore but i never thought about the "moist biome"

[@ZenAkita]

YOUR attitude and positivity is magical

[@kcanded]

I've been enjoying your videos, popping around here and there to watch random bits. I have to say your bedroom feels like it's the calmest most peaceful quiet fluffiest coolest place to be. I didn't think that a gray-painted bedroom would feel that full of light and that soothing.

[@bevdraper590]

I just found you yesterday. I am a grandma, and I think you are so brave. I enjoy learning about medical procedures. I had no idea about the shaving issues. Thank you for helping make things easier for others. You are precious and so is Brian.

[@ilikemusicalsp3434]

I love you so much, my friend is going to get her leg amputated because her knee is screwed up beyond repair and I plan on showing her your channel

[@Justaperson354]

If you don’t mind me asking, is knee replacement not an option? I wonder because my friend had cancer and had to amputate her leg and get a knee replacement in the other due to the cancer. Just curious is all :)

[@ilikemusicalsp3434]

justaperson Well, her knee could be replaced, if there weren’t another issue. Her the bone right below her knee is incredibly screwed up as well. The best option for her is amputation right above the knee.

[@Justaperson354]

Bella P oh I’m so sorry to hear that I hope your friend well. She must be very scared sense an above the knee amputation is really more intense than below the knee. It’s a longer recovery time. But I hope her the best

[@ilikemusicalsp3434]

justaperson she’s really optimistic and I’m actually going to be moving in with her to help her recover

[@Justaperson354]

Bella P that’s great

[@za_zi_a]

Love your personality, Jo. Thank you for sharing your journey with us.

[@darrenheadrick3669]

I love your attitude and approach to how this changed your life. You have such a positive and subtle sense of humor.

[@benjaminoverholt8056]

As a partial foot amputee I found this very interesting and informative. I did not know about the calf muscle being wrapped around the bone like that. I have several places that have skin over bone with no padding whatsoever, the bottom of a half toe for example, and it is excruciating. I had always assumed that leg amputees all had to deal with that same issue. I’m curious how that feels when you put your weight on it. Is it similar to other parts of your body that have muscle to cushion the bones, like the buttocks?

[@SolidChristianTeachings]

That sounds to me like your doctor malpractices. Straight bone with only a thin layer of skin covering it is NOT how any part of the human body that bears weight is designed to be. I bet you could get a surgery to fix that. They’d probably have to remove that toe (since it’s too late to put any fresh muscle over it) but that sounds more comfortable in some ways.

[@ZomBunny]

I figure hands and feet are probably problematic in that aspect for amputations, they generally don't have a lot of meat to begin with so there isn't much to wrap around anything other than the skin itself.

[@benjaminoverholt8056]

@@SolidChristianTeachings Well, the lawnmower didn’t leave much for him to work with, and he actually did really well with what he had. Not malpractice at all.

[@Thulgore]

@@benjaminoverholt8056 Now I have more questions lol.

[@clueless_cutie]

@@ZomBunny this. There's only so much flesh to work with, and he said the issue started with a lawnmower so the surgeon was probably working with limited options. In the hands it's probably not that big of an issue as you can just avoid impacting/using the affected area. The foot however, you have to use a lot even when you try to avoid using it. So it's a recipe for a long drawn out and painful healing process until the body fully heals/scars and adapts to the amputation. That's not even considering nerve damage which really can't be helped under some circumstances.

[@SarahSmith-dx5kk]

I love people 100x more when they say "I couldn't care less' it drives me bonkers when people say "I could care less" if you could care less that totally negates what you are saying (I grew up with a mom that studied English, and always corrected our speaking)

[@epona9166]

HAHAHAHAHA! My mother harped on "I could care less" her entire life. Also when people mispronounced "lingerie" (she was a French major) and also when people would say you can get [whatever] "for free" -- instead of just plain "free". She was right of course, but it got really old!

[@comradewindowsill4253]

@@epona9166 reminds me of how my dad sometimes harps on how the express checkout lines are labeled "10 items or less" instead of "10 items or fewer". 'less' might be grammatically wrong, but it saves 1 letter in writing and 1 syllable in speech, so in a way it actually fits better with the idea of an express lane, not that my dad would ever accept that logic.

[@lumpyloo9026]

Hi Jo!! I just come across your videos. Thank you!! Thank you for the education that most of us need. ❤ thank you for loving yourself and others unconditionally. You're a Rockstar hon!!

[@georgewilkie3580]

Hi Jo! I just Had to drop a line to Thank You for being the phenomenally courageous, informative, and attractive, Woman You are. I'm a combat Vietnam Vet and I have two Buds that lost a lower limb in 'Nam. We get together periodically at the VA hospital. Yet, I'd never had realized some of the problems they may be experiencing if I had not been made aware them by Your highly informative videos. Again, You have my heartfelt Thank You for helping me, and others, better understand this sensitive subject. God bless You and Yours.

[@larrypierce2777]

One thing about it, your voice box wasn't effected because are full of information a very fast pace. I'm glad that you are satisfied with your amputation and your prosthesis. You seem to be such a happy lady. Keep up that good spirit. It comes in handy all the time. Best of luck Jo, if that's your name.

[@christinadoherty3212]

I have a connective tissue disorder so I ended up needing my entire spine/skull fused and my lower leg. I swear still everyday I realize I can’t do something anymore that I would just never have even thought of. I wish I could remember the last time I twisted to look out the window or looked at my plate as I ate. Last night was a sobering one... Taco Night... 😂

[@lauratholen4779]

Only one leg?

[@sydneygrace2665]

Oh man, I love that you found the humor in it. And I'm picturing you still holding a taco up, having to hold it sideways and everything falling out, but you do it anyway 😂

[@laurawillits176]

Taco night! Oh noooo! Sending good wishes!!!

[@danielwilliams2994]

I am a right leg below the knee amputee as well. I feel your pain. I just prescribed to your channel. Thanks for putting yourself out there and making these videos.

[@biancaevans6859]

I never knew this, it makes since though after you explained why. I think it's amazing that you are doing these videos and helping educate everyone. Also to raise awareness about some of the issues amputies have to face both before and after amputation. I hope you continue to do these videos.

[@lakenziecrawford7142]

I just love how your leg is way less hairy than mine and I have absolutely no reason to not be shaving other than. I feel like it is pointless because my hair grows back so fast. Also, the front of my legs (both calf and thigh) are WAY hairier than the back and I thought that was how it was for everyone. Interesting.

[@bobbiemason7912]

Same! I think it’s actually the front that’s more hairy then the back, commonly.

[@AnataWaDareDesuKa]

I don’t shave my legs either. If I had the option of having it magically gone forever, or leave it, I would pick gone. But shaving? Nope, too much of a hassle XD And I’m not blond, so it’s pretty visible. But I still wear shorts and skirts. It’s just something ‘everyone does’, which does sort of give me a good feeling that I’m going against the mainstream(? Not native English speaker, does this make sense ^.^” ), because why do what everyone does? I’m me.

[@UltraSuperDuperFreak]

Well personally i dont care if female's shave or not. No matter what areas. But it is nice with atleast shorter hair at the erotic zone i admit. Less chance of hair in the mouth is nice lol :) Yup its not legs i know. I shall move myself to my corner of shame

[@eidolor]

Same, I’d never even thought that some people would have different hair densities. Always figured either you were or weren’t. Don’t wanna 100% yeet all my fur but I would love to just maintain a slight beard stubble without having to shave.

[@kaliwatson3948]

Only strippers shave above the knee, it's too much work honestly, you ever tried to shave your legs in the shower?

[@manuelamarinello3651]

I don’t know why my KZbin recommended your videos but... I’m watching them all and your strength and positivity are just amazing! You are a great inspiration! Thanks for sharing your journey! ... and your Cakes cat 💙

[@MrCrazyChihuahua]

I just stumbled upon your channel and this particular video, and I feel like you have some sort of charisma. I also just became a subscriber because i wanna see more of you. You seem a honest and cheerful to heart person. Your passion for life is amazing and that's something I wholeheartedly hope that more people had. Keep on being awesome :)

[@sophria]

Wow I learned something today. Once you explained why it makes a lot of sense. Despite not being on top of shaving my own legs all the time feel like it would be weird to have the choice removed. Thank you so much for sharing this and I wish you the best of luck and the best of happiness in your life.

[@laurawillits176]

In solidarity, let's all quit shaving our legs.

[@bootolchin1250]

Laura Willits or maybe just stop shaving one leg🧐

[@kremit7771]

Haven’t shaved since April

[@Hana.Behl-Lecter]

I cant stand the feeling of not shaving! If I get out of the shower without shaving if I'm sick or something I don't even feel clean. I couldn't care less if others don't shave but gahhhhh on myself I can't stand how it feels.

[@lisahassler1082]

I don’t shave all winter: socks, tights & pants. Who cares!!!

[@sweetcanada17]

I haven’t shaved my legs since at least 3 years.

[@Boysndahood22]

Your personality, confidence giving me hope for tomorrow 💓💓💓💓💓

[@FootlessJo]

Aw goodness...what an incredibly kind thing to read! Thank you so much! 💜

[@josephtober9417]

Jo, love your videos, your wonderful positive attitude, your smile and your openness! Thanks and be well! Merry Christmas!!

[@fabriglas]

Thanks for sharing your uniqueness, positive energy and educating us !

[@HeartlessiPodNinja]

Hi! I’m a relatively new below the knee amputee on the left side, but I was never warned of this. Obviously, I get why it’s a bad idea, (because complications) but still I find it weird that I wasn’t given that bit of info. Granted, I rarely shave anyway, because I have very fair, fine hair on my legs. But still a good point of advice. It’s one of those things about being an amputee that you don’t really think about until it’s in your face. But, such is life!

[@anamariap8032]

Yay early squad again I love how often you are posting. 💗💗

[@mrjackharbour]

I think it's amazing that you'll share about your experiences like this. Who knows how many people you may have helped. 💖

[@Armyjay]

Wow if it’s not one thing it’s another. You have so many battles to overcome, every day. Each time I hear your stories I’m more and more impressed by your grit and determination with a smile. x

[@Djoodibooti]

I love how soft the amputation sight has gotten!

[@closertothefutureme8469]

I was initially going to suggest waiting for a full day to putting your leg back on after shaving but I didn't think about the ingrown hairs. I work at a facility that works with amputees from time to time so this was super helpful and made me think of a lot of self care they need to consider. Glad I stumbled on your channel today ♡ Sub+

[@truth3899]

I swear ever since I started clicking on things I initially say no to, I’ve been learning so much. Love this

[@mekosmowski]

You seem to be handling things well. Thank you for putting yourself out here.

[@juliafelicione2667]

I was also told by my doctor not to shave my legs!! my skin’s too thin, my ingrown infections were pretty bad, lupus is fun etc etc. i honestly did NOT look back because it saved so much time, but i was worried that I’d lose the more traditional feminine aesthetic, like you said. Turns out my leg hair is pretty thin and light and virtually unnoticeable from a normal distance. I’m seeing that being feminine is totally possible even with leg hair. It’s been a far easier road than i thought 🥰 I’m curious about others’ experiences!

[@annaaas]

I'm a non-amputee that don't shave my legs. I am however a former synchro swimmer and it turns out that you need some leg hair to be able to feel where the surface of the water touches your legs. So after a while I stopped bother to shave my legs in special ways to still feel the water and then just stopped shaving them at all and never started again after I stopped swimming. I have light and thin hairs and they are not seen if you don't look closely. I save a tremendous amount of time and still feel feminine even though that's not so important to me.. :)

[@livelongandprospermary8796]

I have dark, spiky hair .they say it doesn’t get spiky if you shave but my never shaved teenage leg had very soft hair. Mine is visible from only a few feet away. I’ll super jealous of blond haired people lol

[@junbh2]

I mean if you think about it women all naturally have leg hair, so it can't possibly be unfeminine if that's what women actually look like without modification! My mom never shaved her legs until she moved to Canada because it just wasn't a thing women did where she grew up. It's amazing how deeply we learn the cultural things around us though. Because even though I think this, I'm used to seeing women with little or no leg hair so now that's what feels normal to me too.

[@juliafelicione2667]

junbh2 your first sentence is gold and i will be using this line in the future 🥰 thank you for sharing your experience 💜

[@babyfirefly1843]

I have lupus too! And no friends with lupus. =/

[@gentlebutch]

Adulting is overrated Jo. I always spill something on my shirt or pants.

[@eliontheinternet3298]

gentlebutch this simultaneously gives me hope that I’m not alone and also fear that I actually won’t grow out of my clumsiness 😂

[@samanthapalumbo8926]

Same. And it’s always water, soda (pop/ cola), or coffee. And very often the more carmel color stuff ends up on my lighter color shirts.

[@shell-westaustralia8522]

Added to the list!!!

[@Therealmegalollie]

I just pour saracha on my clothes before I leave the house so I don't have to be embarrassed by doing it on accident.

[@chuckg2016]

You shine so much light into places of which the rest of us are clueless.

[@terrycolbert9229]

Very nice video. I had no idea. You are very up beat and positive person, many including myself could learn a lot from you. Thank you for sharing!😎

[@LutzDerLurch]

"Why can't I adult?" Show me one person that can!

[@Sallymander14]

This is something that I’d never thought of, love these kinds of videos! Edjamakate me more please, Jo

[@Ona1979]

I haven't known anyone who has had an amputation and I wanted to become more familiar with experiences that I have never had. Also, it helps me become more comfortable with the issue, so that when I come across amputees while I am out in the world, I hope that seeing it as a normal thing, will make it easier for me not to stare and become less awkward. If I had an amputation, I don't think that I would want to be defined by it and want to be able to show that respect for people who are different from me. I have had terrible things happen to me. I also have some disabilities and my mind is Neuro divergent. I don't want to be seen as a tragedy and I don't want to treat other people that way. I look forward to watching more videos from your channel so that I can educate myself 💚

[@randomvielleuse527]

I didn't know anything about this- and I'm glad to know! i don't know anyone with a prosthetic limb but now I kind of do. I really appreciate you being so open and educational about this! I love to learn! And your cat is a darling in every way.

[@ontherockswithsalt560]

All I can hear in my headphones: "Pppuuuuuuurrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!" Pure cat joy. Cakes loves youuuu!

[@SplitxHeart]

Hi Jo! I am glad I found your channel through recommendations! C: My family largely consists of orthopedics (me excluded, I was only part of customer service xD) but talking about life experiences with patients was always something I enjoyed a LOT! I got somewhat derpy happy when I saw how pretty your leg was made and that I still recognized so many parts of it, including your Össur Iceross base liner! >U < The thing that surprised me most was how long your liners were and that you were using a double sheath too, especially with an under-knee surgery done. This is my first video, but I can tell you are an active, lively and strong woman. Also I totally get your irritation with the broken symmetry and the not shaving = odd femininity. I would probably try waxing my legs or use laser treatment to reduce hair growth permanently on my leg. It's absolutely valid though to just let it grow. Some hair shouldn't define if a woman is feminine or not. (post-mastectomy patients heard the same thing from me) You look fantastic and so does your cute cat! What a fluff ball! ;D Hope you have a wonderful day! Thanks for the insight in your life!

[@SolidChristianTeachings]

Unfortunately both of those alternatives wouldn’t work either. Waxing also causes micro abrasions and significant risk of ingrown hairs when the hair is regrowing-so again, same risk of bacteria building up and getting infected. And laser hair removal isn’t much better. 1) “hair removal” it is a misnomer. It doesn’t “remove” hair at all. It just makes thinner, lighter hair grow back 2) it can damage the skin and make the skin thin-not idea for something with lots of friction and sweaty like her stump inside the prosthetics. Also, when it is done-it can damage the skin and she’d be unable to wear her prosthetic for a while when it is healing. It isn’t worth the risk of getting her limb infected-and having it need to get amputated even further.

[@insignificantopinions3210]

@@SolidChristianTeachings what about depilatory creams?

[@Paytonspage]

I love your videos and how open and honest you are about everything also your cat is so cute!

[@carolynandcocohaywood2638]

I’d never even thought about shaving. A great video, I love your honesty.

[@AntalopeAUT]

I had no clue, now I´m educated about the dangers of shaving amputated limbs . Thanks Jo, for being cool and telling us about the medical technicalities of amputations !

[@jonnaborosky8836]

Very interesting. I had no idea. I quit shaving my legs seven years ago, after an extreme health crisis. I was so glad to be alive that things like shaved legs were just not so important any more. The health crisis I went through also changed hair growth patterns all over...from head to toe. My legs just stopped growing very much hair at all. Other hair things happened but we won't go into that. Like you said, less time to get ready for the day! That's a plus.

[@lawrencemayne1906]

Thanks for enlightening me to this situation. Stay blessed.

[@raymondrodriguez5068]

Thanks for being positive and a inspiration to others!☺

[@dawncongdon6251]

I would have never thought about not shaving if I was wearing a prosthetic, but makes total sense. It would be weird for me not to shave, I think, but it would be nice for less to shave. Lol.

[@bjz111873]

Taboo Tuesday is back 😊! Hope you are having a great day Jo. Thank you for the Christmas card. ❤️

[@FootlessJo]

You're so welcome, Beth!! Thank YOU so much for being a part of this community. 😊

[@seandees3028]

One of my favorite jobs was as a prosthetic tech (the unseen gnome in the back who actually makes the limbs). Pay was crap, conditions less than healthy (lots of very harmful chemicals), but it was the most rewarding job I've ever had. I say that because there were posters all over the lab and patient area (why they were in the lab I have no idea, no patients back there) and half of the posters were PSA's saying "Keep the Stump Clean!". The risk of infection is serious. As you know there is a lot to learn as a new amputee and missing a few tips is easy to do. Shaving is also a 'normalizing' behavior and something that might be done just to try to reclaim a bit of agency and familiarity. Choosing not to shave is wise Jo, thank you for making this video. It might just save the life of a new amputee who didn't get the memo on shaving.

[@denisegrainger2812]

Great to hear this, I’m exactly the same and yes it’s so odd having the calf moved to the front, I’m kind of happy not to shave my leg. But it does feel better if I don’t, I did shave it at first but found it caused discomfort so better left alone.

[@katiewilde9370]

Jo - gives reason for not shaving Me - *thinks to self, I don’t even know when I shave last. All I ever is only shaving one of them on the last day of November or first day of December.*

[@Noname-mh8od]

You're a really quirky girl, Katie! 🥰😘

[@umbramortis8753]

Yeah I rarely shave my legs I pretty much only shave them when I’m going to an event/ get together and I am wearing shorts or the very rare occasion I were a dress

[@katiewilde9370]

Bits N Bridles id have to agree

[@adamchurvis1]

I thought of moving away entirely from suction as an attachment aid, in favor of a bespoke, 3D-printed micromesh. A 3D scanner would capture the precise measurements of the leg attachment surface, an algorithm would modify the vertices of that mesh to accommodate the slight compression necessary to maintain sufficient attachment pressure (not suction, just compression against the attachment surface), and the mesh would itself be 3D, such that multiple layers were separated by vertical trusses attaching between them, effectively holding them a millimeter or two apart. Enough of them together could offer a bit of additional structural support like your current compression fabric does. This would allow ambient air to at least be exposed to the skin that is part of the attachment surface. A more sophisticated solution would be to cover the mesh with a micro-thin polyester and fit a tiny, hearing-aid-battery-powered micropump to force air through the bottom of the mesh to circulate inside and then exhaust the heated air through vents just below the top seam of the mesh. Also, if it would not be impertinent, what is the difference in your weight pre- and post-amputation, such that this difference is attributed to the imbalance between your intact leg and your prosthetic-mounted leg?

[@TheLovelyMissBeans]

I find you very inspiring. I have 3 different autoimmune disorders which affect my joints, soft tissues, and nerves. It's a completely different thing, but I know that feeling of being told that suddenly certain things are not allowed for you anymore. Or certain things are your life now, whether you want it or not. It sucks and it's not fair and it's hard to just be like okso let's go with this all the time. You have a really healthy outlook on your amputation and it is awesome that you will share your story. As a side note...isn't it annoying that you're supposed to be "inspiring " all the time? That's one of the things that I just flipping hate sometimes about being sick. Every time I do something I also gotta "inspire" somebody too. It's exhausting.

[@andrebartels1690]

I didn't know a thing about the issues which amputees have to face. Thank you for talking so openly. This lifts taboos from topics, that are quite normal and shouldn't be a taboo at all. 👍