Time for an Upgrade (Part 2)

I invite you to walk with me through the process of getting a new prosthetic arm. I’m journaling the steps along the way. You can interact with me by sharing thoughts and comments on this post.

Years ago, I attended a support meeting for amputees. When my eyes scanned the circle, I realized every person was wearing a prosthetic leg—except me. I instantly became the celebrity of the evening. My new friends were ever so curious about upper-extremity devices.

Prosthetic arms only make up about ten percent of all prosthetic limbs. Because of that, advances in arm technology have been slower than advances for legs. And finding a prosthetist who specializes in arms? Well, that’s a difficult endeavor. So, you see why I appreciate Tess at McNeill Prosthetics Lab so much.

Using last week’s cast, Tess poured a plaster mold to replicate my upper arm. Then over that mold, she made a clear plastic test socket for me to try on today.

The test socket fit well and felt comfortable. I requested it be a little looser—a personal preference of mine. So, we made a few minor adjustments. Now, on to the next step!

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“My spirit rejoices in God my Savior … He has performed mighty deeds with his arm.” Luke 1:47,51 (NIV)

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Read “Time for an Upgrade (Part 1)” HERE.

Time for an Upgrade (Part 1)

I invite you to walk with me through the process of getting a new prosthetic arm. I’m journaling the steps along the way. You can interact with me by sharing thoughts and comments on this post.

In the world of cell phone generations, my device has reached senior adulthood. Seven years and going strong. Why should I replace it, spending time on set up and getting used to all the changes?

For those same reasons, my prosthesis is even older than my cell phone. The arm has served me well for a decade, but now it’s time for an upgrade.

Today I had an appointment at McNeill Prosthetics Lab in Birmingham, Alabama. My friend, Tess McNeill, will be making my new arm. Like me, she was born without a left elbow, forearm, or hand. Who better to understand my needs? She is a skilled prosthetist and assistant professor for the prosthetics program at Alabama State University.

The appointment included an evaluation of my needs and the casting of my upper arm. I’ll return in a week for the next step. I’ll keep you posted!

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“This is God’s generous truth; embrace it with both arms!” (1 Peter 5:12 MSG)

I Want to Hold Your Hand

Recently, I took five-year-old Chloe out for a fun day. We ate lunch at Chicken Salad Chick, shopped at Claire’s in the mall, and enjoyed a sugar cookie from the Cookie Company. As we walked, sometimes she held my right hand. Other times, she slipped up beside me on the left and grasped my prosthetic hand with her little fingers. I couldn’t grasp hers back, but that didn’t seem to matter. She was just holding hands with her normal grammy, the one who loves her to the moon and back.

Family and friends who share the life of a person with challenges are true treasures. They help us, encourage us, and love us—just the way we are.