by Catherine Knockwood

It has been 2 years since I become and amputee. I have gone through many ups and downs during those two years. As much as I have endured the physical changes, I also endured the mental challenges that come along with the impact of losing a limb. There are days when I can laugh and smile, there are days when I want to scream and cry. During those tough days, I spend time journaling, staying in comfy clean clothes, and talking with family and friends who are willing to listen. The other great help during those tough days is my prosthetic team, and my physiotherapist. They keep me focused on my goals and remind me of the progress I have made.

What they continuously remind me is that my goals are mine to achieve; that my determination will be the driving force to push me closer to my goals; that being honest to myself allows me to take days off and rest when I need the rest. I read a sign recently that said, “You will be alone during your healing journey, because it is YOUR journey to make.” This made so much sense to me because no matter how hard I try, I cannot get someone else to do my exercises for me, so I can get stronger. No matter how healthy someone else eats, I won’t get healthier. So, on this journey, I make the healthy choices, I put in the physical work, and I will see the outcomes.

However, I did get caught in that horrible cycle of self-doubt and comparisons. I was comparing myself to other amputees who are doing wonderful and fantastical fea ...