You are not alone.
The journey of adjustment and the value of peer support at NE Amputee.
Losing a limb often changes more than just our physical body. It can touch every part of life; our identity, confidence, relationships and emotional world. If you are reading this, you may be someone who is adjusting to life following limb loss or know someone who is. The first thing you should know is you are not alone.
Many amputees experience a sense of loss, describing a complicated process of grief and growth, with a range of emotions that come in waves of varying intensity. Limb loss can bring a huge adjustment to life as we knew it. Healing is not just about wounds and prosthetics – its also about adapting to a new way of being in the world. Some days may feel tough, and at other times you might feel surprised, noticing your strength or even moments of joy and pride in your achievements! This is common and all part of an individual process.
However, some people can also feel isolated or misunderstood during adjustment, it can be hard to describe the ever changing experience to those closest. Connecting with others who are travelling this journey can be a lifeline. Here at NE Amputee we are committed to providing a welcoming space to meet others and to connect. This can offer hope, validation and moments of laughter over a cup of tea or coffee. You don’t have to attend and feel there is a need or expectation to share your story, others ‘just get it’ and meetings are often a place to form friendships and companions on your journey, learning and growing together.
Adjustment is not about “getting back to how it was” but about creating a new way of being, and a life that works for you. That might mean learning new skills, hearing about new places to visit, trying new activities, settling into a new rhythm or simply discovering what brings you joy and makes you, you! Adjustment takes time and moves at your own pace.
Sometimes emotions can make this process challenging, feelings of anger, sadness and fear may overshadow moments of pride, joy and relief. Give yourself permission to notice and feel these, and if you find yourself feeling stuck or overwhelmed reach out to us, NE Amputee is here to support and if we can’t help, there is a good chance we will know someone who can.
So on this journey of adjustment remember you are not alone. Hold onto your value and place in the world. There may be new challenges but there are also new strengths and opportunities waiting to emerge.
If you would like to know more about the group please contact us via the Contact Us page on our website, or reach out to us on our socials! Our regular drop-in sessions and our social events are always being updated as we explore new ways of bringing people together that help us to reconnect with life and the things we love.
