inMotion Magazine

Finding Support 3 Becoming an amputee can initially be a lonely experience. Chances are, when you lost your limb, you were the only amputee you knew. For many people, asking for help can be the hardest thing to do. It requires facing the reality of missing a limb, which can lead to difficult emotions like shame, grief and self‑doubt. Accepting help can also fuel fears of becoming a burden, or losing your independence. But a visit from a peer visitor or another amputee can not only ease these fears, it can help you find the answers to questions you’re not even ready to ask yet. One of the biggest misconceptions about peer visitors and peer support groups is that they mainly exist to help people with emotional difficulty in coping with their situation. But these individuals and groups can also provide valuable, practical tips about the things they do and the equipment they use to adapt to their limb loss. You will learn that there is no single “best” or “right” way to cope – there are many pathways in the journey to recovery. Although peer support is especially critical for new amputees, this is actually only the beginning of your journey, and the Amputee Coalition is there for you every step of the way. We can connect you with someone who’s been where you are now – someone who understands what you are going through, who will listen and share strength. We will make every effort to put you in contact with someone who is the best fit for your age, gender, level of amputation and location. We can also help you find a local support group, or start one, or find other avenues of support. If you or someone you know might benefit from peer support or would like to become a certified peer visitor, please contact the Amputee Coalition at 888/267-5669 or visit amputee-coalition.org. Even if we do not walk together on the straight path, as long as we have the same destination, that is what’s important. ~Grace Poe Editor’s Message FINDING SUPPORT ~ Bill Dupes, Editor-in-Chief Different Journeys, One Destination