"They gave me hope that there is life after amputation"

I had a left below knee amputation in December 2022 and started attending physiotherapy rehabilitation sessions in early 2023 at University Hospital Monklands.

I was very determined to reach certain goals. I initially wanted to be walking with a prosthetic leg, I wanted to be driving again, and I wanted to be running around with my grandchildren (something I had NEVER been able to do).

Shauna and Helen listened to me, and to what I needed, every week at the amputee clinic, and we all worked together to help me achieve my goals. Their encouragement and support was exactly what I needed. They answered my many questions and never seemed to tire of me asking them! 

Today I have achieved all three goals and more. In June 2023 I went on a 3 week mission trip to Ghana. In Oct 2023 I abseiled off the Forth Rail Bridge for charity. I am also training to walk the West Highland Way in 2024 and to walk the Inca Trail in Peru in 2025.

Shauna and Helen cared for me in such a positive way in the early weeks and months after surgery, and gave me hope that there is life after amputation. Now I tell anyone who'll listen that I had such a fabulous rehab experience, oh and also that I must be the happiest amputee in Scotland!