GEORGE NEWS - George's first amputee support meeting brought together people from across the Garden Route at Redberry Farm on Saturday 11 July to share experiences, encourage one another and establish an independent local support group.
The initiative was launched by Allan Oates, owner of Barkley Oates Inc. He explained that the idea originated with a client, Lodewikus Smit, who wanted to establish an amputee communication and support group before temporarily moving to Cape Town to complete his articles.
Oates encouraged the attendees to ex-change contact details and take ownership of the group. "The aim is for amputees to support one another by sharing experiences, discussing what works and encouraging people who are newly adjusting to life after amputation," he said.
He stressed that the group should be independent of any prosthetic practice and could also organise social gatherings and activities.
Among those sharing their experiences was the 17-year-old Ronildino Davidson, who was born without part of one leg. He received his first prosthetic leg when he was three or four and has since learnt to use and maintain it independently.
Esmé Volschenck of Barkley Oates Inc, Henley Andries and Denver Strydom. Photo: Marguerite van Ginkel
Today he participates in sports, drama and landscape sketching, proving that his disability has not prevented him from pursuing his interests.
Also attending was Henley Andries (46), a prosthetic technician at Barkley Oates. He lost his leg about two years ago after living with pain for 15 years.
The doctors believed a long-standing wound on one of his toes might have resulted from a spider bite that severely affected his circulation. After years of unsuccessful treatment, he decided to undergo an amputation.
Although Andries still experiences phantom pain, he said he has learnt to manage it mentally. An avid cyclist, he rides about 150km every week to stay fit and maintain a healthy weight.
Members of George’s newly formed amputee support group enjoy strawberry and cream scones while sharing ideas for the future of the group. Photo: Marguerite van Ginkel
He also visits newly amputated patients in their homes to encourage them through the adjustment process and assists residents living with disabilities in Reiger Park.
Oates said stories such as these demonstrate why peer support is so valuable. "People who have walked the road understand the challenges better than anyone else and can offer encouragement from personal experience," he said.
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