Have you been looking for ways to spend less and save more during these tough economic times? If so, you might be happy to learn about the following free and inexpensive offers that could help you keep more money in your own pocket this year.
FREE PROSTHETIC DEVICES
Prosthetic devices can be a large part of an amputee’s budget. Even if you are able to get a prosthesis through your insurance company, it may not be the most appropriate device for your needs and, therefore, could prevent you from living your life to the fullest. Moreover, even if you get the device you need for everyday living, you may also be able to benefit from other specialized prosthetic and assistive devices that can help you participate in specific activities, such as working on a car or playing basketball or tennis.
While these devices can be expensive, several organizations provide free prosthetic and specialized assistive devices to those who can’t afford them. (Visit livingwithamplitude.com, and click on the Resources tab to access a list of organizations.)
In addition, if you need a prosthetic device to continue working or to do a particular job, you may be able to get one for free through your state’s Vocational Rehabilitation agency. (http://askjan.org/cgi-win/TypeQuery.exe?902)
AMPUTEE CAMPS
This year, the Amputee Coalition is offering to cover all expenses, including travel, for the children who attend its Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp, which is scheduled for July 10-15 at Camp Joy in Clarksville, Ohio. This is a great opportunity for any amputee age 10-17 who wants to enjoy the camp experience. (See www.amputee-coalition.org and click on the Events and Programs tab.)
Another option is Adventure Amputee Camp (www.adventureamputeecamp.org), which usually holds its summer camp at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, North Carolina, in July. Although there is a minimal registration fee, no camper is turned away because of inability to pay.
For those who can’t attend either of these camps or simply want to attend another one, Camp No Limits (www.nolimitsfoundation.org) offers several camps around the country every year. It also offers some scholarships that cover the cost of attendance, lodging, meals, and included activities.
COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS
With the rising costs of a college education, scholarships can help a lot. Fortunately, there are several scholarships available for amputees and their dependents.
The Amputee Coalition offers the Christina Skoski, MD, Scholarship, which gives $1,000 to a qualified full-time undergraduate student with an amputation or congenital limb difference. (www.amputee-coalition.org/events-programs/scholarships)
The National Amputee Golf Association offers a $1,000 educational scholarship grant per semester for members of the organization and their dependents. The recipient can receive up to $2,000 per year. (www.nagagolf.org/scholarship1.shtml)
In addition, the Eastern Amputee Golf Association offers several scholarships. (www.eagagolf.org/schol arships.html; contact rbuck18015@verizon.net)
Because these scholarships are limited to amputees and their dependents, there is less competition and a much greater chance of receiving an award.
If you are aware of any free or inexpensive opportunities for amputees, please contact editor@livingwithamplitude.com so that we can share the information with our readers.
