Recovering from an Amputation, Physically & Psychologically

Last week’s events in Boston devastated the entire country. Four innocent people lost their lives, and at least 13 people have lost limbs.

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Rebecca with her therapists.

Recovering from an amputation takes a great deal of work, both physically and mentally. It can be a long journey, but it is one many people have successfully traveled before. Here at Magee, we have seen many people with amputations push themselves further than they ever thought they could. Take Rebecca Levenberg for example. Two years ago, Rebecca was struck by a garbage truck while riding her bike to work, losing her left leg above the knee. But she has never let that stop her from living the life she wants to live. Rock climbing, rollerblading, biking – she does it all. And she recently completed 1,000 miles in her prosthesis – a major accomplishment, and an inspiration to all of us.

But Rebecca didn’t get to where she is by luck. It took a lot of hard work. To explain the process of recovering from a traumatic amputation like Rebecca’s or those injured in the Boston Marathon, two Magee clinicians spoke to ABC 6 about rehabilitation and the psychological impact of an amputation.

In addition to our Amputation Rehabilitation Program, Magee also offers an AmpPeer peer mentoring program and amputee support group – because no one knows what you’re going through like someone who has been there before. If you or someone you know would like to be involved in our amputee peer mentoring program, please email peers@mageerehab.org. Everyone is welcome – you do not need to be or have been a patient at Magee to participate.

Our thoughts are with everyone in Boston. You have shown great strength and courage already – we have every confidence you will meet this challenge and find great success in your journey toward recovery.

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