Monday, March 19, 2012

New Legs

Many of you may remember my cousin, Joe. He is a Gulf War veteran that lost both legs to an IED while on patrol in Iraq in 2005.  He came home broken but has gone on to show the true strength of his character.  He now rides a handcycle competitively for Achilles International on their Freedom Team.


This is Joe's post this morning on Facebook:

"Getting both new legs made today. Haven't walked in 3 years, hope I remember how."

He lost one leg just above the knee and the other at the hip.  Getting a prosthesis that is comfortable and functional for the one lost at the hip has been a challenge to say the least.  A few years ago, he finally gave in and went full-time in his wheelchair.

As I read his post, I was reminded of just how small the problems in my life are.

7 comments:

Busy Bee Suz said...

He is truly inspiring. I DO hope his new legs fit well and he gets full mobility!!!!

Lisa @ Two Bears Farm said...

How exciting for him! I hope the adjustment goes smoothly :-)

George said...

Joe is a true hero. I hope he can get two new legs that are comfortable and enable him to continue to lead an active life.

Betsy Banks Adams said...

Wow---he is truly a hero... God Bless Him... We need to look to people like Joe --who is beating the odds and doing great. When we complain about the little things in our lives, we need to think about Joe... It's all about attitude. I am so proud of him. What an inspiration to all...

Hugs,
Betsy

Lisa said...

It's people like him that make me push myself harder.

Mental P Mama said...

Oh, my. I want to come and cheer him on! Thank you, Joe. Thank you for everything.

Snooty Primadona said...

Amen. It makes me realize how petty my everyday frustrations are. Think I'll stop complaining. Forever. Kudos to this remarkable young man...

Our daughter's boyfriend during high school lost his left leg in Afghanistan, along with his best friend & has gone on to get a prosthetic AND counsel other amputees, as well as speak all over the country about his experience.

It just goes to show that when the going gets tough, the tough get going...