One of the biggest lessons I have learned since my amputation is that losing a limb did not mean losing my independence, my goals, or my ability to enjoy life.
Today, I continue to live an active and fulfilling life as an amputee. Through determination, rehabilitation, and the support of my medical team, family, and friends, I have been able to return to many activities that I once feared would no longer be possible.
In September 2025, I attended EmpowerFest, where I experienced something I had been missing throughout much of my recovery journey: community. For the first time, I was surrounded by other amputees who understood the challenges, victories, frustrations, and triumphs that come with limb loss. EmpowerFest showed me that I was not alone. It introduced me to a village of people who inspired me, encouraged me, and helped me see what was possible after amputation.
I was able to complete my Masters In Psychology and graduated from GCU and walk in ceremony!
Since my amputation, I have participated in adaptive sports and recreational activities including sled skating, seated volleyball, pickleball, swimming aerobics. These experiences have shown me that being an amputee does not mean sitting on the sidelines. Instead, it has encouraged me to challenge myself in new ways and discover activities I may never have tried otherwise.
I traveled as an amputee and went to Disneyland in December with my family for three days
In 2026, I attended my first running clinic with my running prosthesis. Standing alongside other amputees and learning how to run again was a milestone I once thought was impossible. What began as a dream during my recovery became a reality as I took my first running steps on a prosthetic leg. The experience reminded me how far I had come since my amputation and reinforced my belief that life after limb loss is filled with opportunities to grow and achieve new goals.
I have also regained many of the everyday skills that contribute to independence and quality of life. I can do my own laundry, shop for groceries, attend appointments, and manage my daily responsibilities. While I still utilize support when needed, I am proud of how much independence I have regained since my amputation.
One of the milestones I am most proud of since my amputation was traveling by airplane. I utilized wheelchair assistance at the airport to help navigate long distances between terminals and gates.
In addition to physical therapy, I continue to invest in my health and fitness by attending personal training sessions at Ability360 with a great personal trainer, fitness classes, and water aerobics. These activities help me maintain my strength, improve my balance, and continue progressing toward my long-term goals.
When I first learned that amputation might become necessary, I feared that my life would never be the same. In many ways, it isn’t. But what I have learned is that life after amputation can still be meaningful, active, rewarding, and full of possibilities.
Being an amputee is only one part of who I am. It does not define my future, limit my potential, or determine what I can achieve. Every day, I continue to prove to myself that there is life after limb loss and that life can still be extraordinary.
My Journey Becoming an RBK Amputee 