You have probably seen from photos or my profile book that I’m an amputee. If that is something that makes you wonder if I’m capable of parenting, I encourage you to ask me questions. I assure you, no question is off limits and I can pretty much guarantee I’ve heard them all. My answers might ease your mind, or not, and that’s okay too. I want an expectant mother to feel comfortable in choosing me to parent her baby.
A little backstory…I got an extremely rare and aggressive infection on my leg when I was 5 years old. In order to save my life the doctors had to amputate my leg below the knee. After a year of physical therapy I got a prosthetic and have had one ever since.
How has it affected my life?
I won’t lie, it was a traumatic experience, especially at such a young age. But I had incredibly supportive parents and a great community that helped me. Over the last 30 years, I’ve used the tragedy to become a better person. Everything I went through made me more empathetic and caring. I learned how to approach challenges with determination and grit.
How does it affect me physically?
It doesn’t really.
I was raised believing I could do anything my friends could do. And I can! I have no physical limitations (except I can’t wear heels - but I’m okay with that). I travel the globe, do gymnastics, bike ride, swim and many other physical activities.
My amputation will affect my parenting but only in that I’ve developed a greater capacity for understanding, encouragement and facing challenges.
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