inMotion Magazine

Being Informed 27 Each year, 185,000 amputations occur in the U.S. Unfortunately, a common factor in most of these cases is financial stress. When I had my leg amputated at the age of 11, my parents and I had no idea just how expensive prosthetics or mobility devices are. After spending thousands on hospitals, doctors, surgeries, physiotherapy and medicine, you would think that the worst is over. However, anyone living with a lifelong disability eventually learns that the cost for a better, more mobile life only increases with time, especially for those with limited insurance coverage. I am from South Africa, where our weak economy results in very little or no prosthetic coverage at all. After seven years of using my old prosthesis, I was in great need of a new leg. My gait had gotten worse and I was beginning to form scoliosis, which resulted in bad lower back pain. I decided to compile my best case and reach out to organizations and insurance for help. I got X-rays, letters and professional opinions from surgeons, chiropractors and prosthetists, explaining my need for a new prosthesis and why it would save the insurance company money in the long term by avoiding other surgeries and therapy down the road. I timed my application to be sent as their budgets were being allocated so my chances were at their greatest. However, they denied my application for a new prosthesis three years ago and offered me a wheelchair instead. If I can walk, I will walk in respect to those who can’t. I refused their offer, angry and heartbroken. I felt like I would never get the leg I so desperately needed. The sad thing is, my story isn’t unique at all and is shared around the world, with other countries being so much worse. After moving to New York City nine months ago, my battle in getting a new prosthesis was suddenly over. I would like to share some lessons I’ve learned along the way because raising money for your prosthesis, durable medical equipment (DME) or orthotic device shouldn’t scare you as much as it initially scared me. Step 1: Get your squad together “It is too hard doing it alone, so don’t,” a good friend and training partner said to me. It seems obvious, but at that time I was stubborn and asking for help never came naturally to me. The thought of raising money was a real challenge. I was scared of telling the world how much I needed to raise and never actually being able to reach that goal. However, my team made me realize that it was totally possible if we all pulled together. My team consisted of people from different organizations but all shared the same passion – living and helping others live a fuller life. My prosthetists were an imperative part in the success of getting a new leg. Surround yourself with people who are just as passionate about your cause as you are. Step 2: Get comfortable with the total Get comfortable with the number you need to reach. Research your options and gather all the relevant information from specialists and companies to find the best device for your needs. This amount will be your goal, so make sure it is accurate but leave room for unseen costs. Determine a reasonable deadline by taking into account planning timeframe, special events, seasons and holidays to get the most out of your events. Step 3: Reach out & spread out I was lucky enough to come across two great charities: ASPIRE and Wiggle Your Toes . They both jumped on board in helping me raise enough money, either through events like the New York City Triathlon or directly though donors. By reaching out to individuals and more than one charity, the total cost was split and it wasn’t so exorbitant for one organization. Step 4: Throwing events This is the most challenging, yet fun, part. Bringing people together for a good cause is always a recipe for a fun time. Have a main event that you feel suits your personal brand and challenge yourself! People love seeing a good challenge where success isn’t a given, and you are likely to gain The thought of raising money was a real challenge. I was scared of telling the world how much I needed to raise and never actually being able to reach that goal. Emily Gray was able to walk without crutches for the first time after receiving her new leg.