Eight amputees will embark on a three-day trek across Sydney May 24-26. Some participants have undergone osseointegration surgery, while the others will be using sockets to attach their prosthetic limbs.
“About 40 years ago when I first became an amputee, walking 50 miles in three days would not have been possible due to the lack of prosthetic leg technology,” said Reggie Showers, participant and patient advocate for College Park Industries, Warren, Michigan. “No longer am I limited by inferior leg technology. Today I am better, I am stronger, and I am faster.”
Showers is an active member in the amputee community. At the age of 14, he was involved in a tragic accident and lost both of his legs below the knee. Despite the tremendous challenges he faced, he went on to become a world champion motorcycle racer, inspirational speaker, accomplished pilot, certified snowboard instructor, marathoner, and volunteer at community events. He will be wearing sockets with his prostheses during the trek.
“My hope is that by watching me attempt this journey, people of all ages will be inspired to face their fears, overcome their obstacles, and pursue their dreams,” Showers said.
The mastermind behind this event is Fred Hernandez, U.S. operations manager for Osseointegration International and president of AmpUtek. Hernandez has been an above-knee amputee for 33 years. He was the first American to undergo osseointegration surgery in Australia. Hernandez hopes to educate others about the evolving technology and show how amputees can have an active, improved quality of life. The trek will reveal some of the differences between, issues with, and successes of sockets and osseointegration during prolonged activity.
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/AmpUtek.
This article was adapted from information provided by College Park.