Re: elective AKA

Posted by Gibby on March 09, 19106 at 23:17:19:

In Reply to: elective AKA posted by Linda on March 09, 19106 at 15:32:53:

Hi - I'm a 48 y/o survivor of bone cancer 33 years ago. I didn't have amputation at that time but had it 23 years ago when I had a recurrence of the cancer. Limb salvage surgery was treatment of choice at that time but I couldn't have it because of previous radiation and it also wasn't recommended due to the fact it was recurrent cancer.

I can't imagine that anyone would not at least have some level of sadness and grief. I never really felt depressed though. I'm sure this is a very individual thing depending on your circumstances.

I had nine months to "prepare" for the amputation before I actually had the surgery.
I just wanted to survive a life threatening illness and be able to walk with a prosthesis and go back to work. I've exceeded those initial expectations beyond my wildest dreams. I have a nice life and in some ways it is probably better as a result of all I've been through because I truly appreciate and make the most of every day of my life.

You may want to do a little research on the best surgical techniques these days and make sure you have the best surgeon available to you. It is also critical to find an excellent prosthetist.

Feel free to email me if you would like to discuss outside of this board.

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