Clare's story.

Clare has worked for the NHS for the past 14 years and is now an Advanced Nurse Practitioner in an Emergency Department.

On the 14th September 2021 she underwent a left below knee amputation (LBKA). It is a long and complicated story but we will keep it short.

Clare has been in pain for the last three years after being involved in a severe road traffic accident three years ago, she sustained injuries to her groin and left ankle. The pain in her ankle got worse with time limiting her mobility and affecting her quality of life. She was diagnosed with late stages of avascular necrosis of the talus bone in her ankle as a result of the severe damage caused by the accident. Over the past 3 years Clare has seen multiple specialists for their opinions and had 2 surgeries prior to the amputation.

Last year she along with her consultant decided to have the lower left leg amputated, while waiting for the surgery she completed her Masters Degree in Advanced Practice at Huddersfield University.

There are expenses which come with living life as an amputee, simple things like wheelchairs help her on a daily basis.

A robust wheelchair suitable for a young and active person which is lightweight, good quality and folds easily would help Clare to remain independent and able to go out in her car alone without requiring help, they cost in excess of £1500.

For the past 3 years Clare has loaned an electric wheelchair which has greatly helped her get out of the house to meet friends, simply nip to the shops and prevent her from being stuck inside her house, mentally this has been a life saver! To have one of her own would be amazing so she can always have the independence she longs to keep forever.

Advanced prosthetic legs which are not provided by the NHS would also be something Clare would like to have as her dreams are to be able to run again, Thai box as before and hike with her family and dog Bruce. Advanced prosthetics are very costly.

In 3 weeks time Clare will receive her 1st NHS prosthetic limb and begin learning to walk again.

“Having this amputation was not a choice made lightly, who would wish for an amputation, surgeons do not just cut off limbs because you want them too, I underwent numerous tests, x-rays, scans, surgeries, orthotics, psychiatric tests and therapy before amputation was considered.

I remain positive, my eye is on the future, a challenging journey I know, but the outcome is running, hiking, boxing, working full duties in the A&E. Please donate what you can, a small amount would help make a huge difference towards reaching the target.

Much love, Clare x

PS. Never underestimate the gift of walking!!!

edited unable to delete…. Following a motorbike accident Clare suffered with Avascular Necrosis of her ankle and for a long while she lived with chronic pain, swelling etc she has since had a below knee amputstion and is the most positive and inspiring girl youll ever meet! she has borrowed an electric wheel chair

and this gives her independence and freedom but would love to have her own so please lets see if we can raise enough to help her get her own ser of hot wheels so she can continue to thrive 🥰