My Life As A Quadrilateral Amputee

Cutting Rice Krispies Treats

2012-02-06T15:18:00.000-08:00

There's only one thing I can say ..... YUM!

Picking Up Coins

2012-02-06T14:56:00.000-08:00

Oh, I hope you guys get the chance to see these videos. I'm so proud of them. Don't worry, I'm not singing in any of them.... Or, am I?

Oh Yeah!!!!

2012-02-06T14:45:00.000-08:00

I'm back! I hope everyone enjoyed the holidays. Sorry for my hiatus. In any case.........................

(Belated) MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!

By the way, I'm still on Twitter. Imagine that... Don't forget to tweet me at @sheilaa9 .

Tweet...Tweet...

2011-12-20T20:48:00.000-08:00

@SheilaA9. Yes, that's right...I joined Twitter! Now, I'm not sure how long that will last; but, just in case, you can tweet me (at least while I haven't decided to close the account).

KESSLER REHABILITATION

2011-12-20T17:50:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of seeing friends at Kessler Rehabilitation today -- some are on the photos (I will not mention names unless they want me to). OTs, PTs, prosthetist, aides, clerks, directors, etc.....Yes, they are all friends. They have all helped me, even when my case then was uncommon. What a great place!!! Times may have passed; but, the laughter and good times are still the same. Also, I felt the same warmth. I should have brought my camera too. Thanks girl for the pictures.

UH OH...

2011-12-20T15:54:00.000-08:00

I just fell a little while ago. Oopsy.... My left foot got caught on the cord. As I stood up and tried to walk, I tripped. I fell on my left leg (kneeling) and left hand. OH MAN!!!! Okay, so far so good. It seemed like a smooth fall. Somehow, I think, my prosthetic leg saved me from a harder fall. Well, I emailed two doctors and left a message for one. I hope they don't panic. I hope everything's fine.

House

2011-12-16T15:10:00.001-08:00

I built my own house -- a ginger bread house. I started yesterday and finished today (12/16/11).

I was a little hesitant doing this as an OT activity even with the kit; but, I DID IT! Woohoo!!!

YUM!

2011-12-14T19:17:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe I never posted these pictures. I don't even remember when I made them in therapy. But now that I look at them...I'm hungry...again. Oh yes! I made the cupcakes. Given, it was a mix; but, I still made them (and some more last week).

Uhmmmm....HELLO???

2011-12-14T16:03:00.000-08:00

Okay, so for many years now (since I've had the adaptive devices put in my vehicle), I've been having an off/on issue. Usually, such issue occurs during the winter when it gets very cold. My car would not start. It has something to do with the wiring interfering with something....blah, blah, blah. I've taken it to both the dealership and the shop and NOTHING.

Recently, I experienced the problem again. This time the shop tells me that they would need to bring in a specialist to look at it. Hmmm.....let's think about it. After all these years......now I'm advised of this?? We could have talked about this a few years back, right?

Well, I shouldn't really complain. The shop has really nice people. And, they have been returning my calls.

PARTYYYYY!!!!!

2011-12-14T15:54:00.000-08:00

Today, Wednesday, I worked (with my supervisor's permission) instead of Friday. Oh yes, did I tell you? I work twice a week now. Anyway, I didn't want to miss the Christmas party with my woderful co-workers. Don't worry.....NO ALCOHOL! It was a gathering filled with wonderful people who certainly knows how to have a good time. There may be some that I don't know well, but they are all awesome and I enjoyed myself.

I'm thankful for them also. My co-workers (friends) are also part of my support system.

2011-11-24T17:23:00.000-08:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!! Although I have not met some of you, I am truly blessed to have readers/followers that take the time to read my blog. Thank you.

Conference -- A True Honor

2011-11-18T14:46:00.000-08:00

Today, I was in a conference with three of the transplant doctors (and they are amazing) and another hand transplant patient at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in MD. It was a true honor and privilege to take part in such a wonderful event. My doctors spoke. Afterwards, the other transplant patient and I took part by engaging in some Q & A. We also did a bit of touring and met many of the military doctors, personell, therapists, and wounded soldiers. I am inspired. These soldiers are some of the greatest people one could ever meet. They are true heroes.

Thank you for serving, protecting, and fighting for the people.

Painting

2011-11-18T14:40:00.001-08:00

Here's another canvas painting called Fluidity. Somehow, it was a challenge to create this when I only used two colors.

Kitchen Stuff in OT

2011-10-17T21:07:00.000-07:00

So, my therapists have incorporated a new activity for me on Fridays -- exhausting and exciting at the same time. I am now cooking (well, more like baking).

For the past four Fridays I've made brownies, apple crisp, banana nut bread, and banana egg rolls. All of them, of course, were mostly done from scratch. Sometimes, I felt scared because I did not want to cut myself. Thank God...no cuts. Well, I wish I could have taken a picture of all of them....but, I didn't. I only took a picture of the banana nut bread.

Now, what's the upcoming menu?

Interview

2011-10-17T21:01:00.000-07:00

Okay, here's another interview done by the local CBS in Pittsburgh: http://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2011/10/06/woman-who-recieved-two-hand-transplants-talks-about-outcome/

My Phone

2011-09-23T15:37:00.000-07:00

Okay, okay.... Admittedly, I'm on my phone a lot. But, this doesn't mean that I don't do whatever task I need to accomplish (Just saying..).

I had to somewhat sit back and think why I'm on it so much; and I think I figured it out. Before the transplants, I didn't have a touch screen phone. The phone I had was more convenient; although, I was envious whenever I saw someone with the newer type. My prosthetic hands did not work at all on a touch screen. In other words, if I was out, I wouldn't have been able to use such phone. So, I believe this is the reason why I'm always on it (aside from using it practically as my computer). I'm sure I'll get sick of the phone too.

Blessings

2011-09-23T15:05:00.000-07:00

I don't really know where to begin. God has truly shown me the brighter light despite any obstacles I encounter.

Recently, I was featured on Discovery's Life Changing Medicine and CNN's Human Factor (today, in fact). Wow! It makes me realize more that I have accomplished so much in a year after the hand transplants. Truthfully, sometimes I feel like I'm either slacking or not doing much; so, it's nice to be reminded of some accomplishments. I hope that one day, I will do more for myself.

Links:

Discovery http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1150157078001?bclid=1150154420001&bctid=1156023991001 . By the way, it was an honor to have my story as part of the rest. Each story in this show is truly remarkable.

CNN http://cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/health/2011/09/23/human-factor-sheila-advento.cnn.html
CNN Blog http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fthechart.blogs.cnn.com%2F2011%2F09%2F23%2Fhuman-factor-two-beautiful-hands%2F&h=JAQB_-DeMAQAkZEcfTCRV5qU7Z_AJ9uq8kQbvqaqYitMBsA

Thank you again for everything, God. You're the best.

A Life Reclaimed (the book)

2011-08-26T14:09:00.000-07:00

Please check it out:
http://www.booklocker.com/books/4311.html

The book is also available on Amazon.com and BarnesandNobles.com.

This is before the hand transplants. Well, it's getting closer to the point when a second one needs to be started.

Interviews

2011-08-26T09:34:00.000-07:00

I truly feel blessed.

Recently, I completed an interview with a production company for a show called Life Changing Medicine on Discovery. Just like the other reporters that I had been blessed to work with, the people from this show are extremely kind, generous, and warm-hearted. They made the process very comfortable and quite smooth.

The process (or taping) began in therapy. There, we (my therapists and I) showed the activities and exercises I do on a daily basis. A few weeks later, we taped in DC at a studio by interview. WOW! Imagine, they had a green room and a makeup artist (who, by the way, is a wonderful lady). I can't wait for the air time. OK....I'm promoting this....It airs on September 10 at 8 am (and 2 Saturdays after).

Other interviews:
http://newyork.cbslocal.com/video?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipld=5583241

http://www.fox4kc.com/health/wdaf-transplant-patient-adjusts-to-new-hands-20110603,0,4250664.story

3 Canvas Paintings

2011-08-26T06:55:00.000-07:00

It's so terrible of me for taking such a long break from my blog. So much has happened. For one, I now have three canvas paintings. Hopefully, I will be able to add more.

Why

2011-06-28T13:18:00.000-07:00

The decision to choose hand transplantation was not so difficult for me. From the moment my hands were amputated many years ago, the idea had been embedded in me. My plastic surgeon then did a muscle transplant on my right wrist (since I am right hand dominant) for a possible hand transplant. Since then, the thought just lingered. Well, what do you know?! Seven years later and I did it.

Revelation

2011-06-18T09:41:00.000-07:00

For a while now, I have been secretive of my surgery. I wasn't ready to open up. I thought that, perhaps, the right time will come. And, here it is.... About nine months ago, I had double hand transplants. It was a choice which I had no doubt in pursuing. Although it was quite tough immediately after the surgery, I am content.

Everyday, I go through about 6 hours of Occupational Therapy. It's intense, but satisfying. Of course, I have to make sure I keep my determination. With a strong faith and good support system, I see a great possibility for INDEPENDENCE.

Things I've done since the surgery:
- draw
- write
- paint
- clean
- wash dishes
- a bit of laundry
- make-up
- grooming / dressing
- a bit of cooking one time
- weaved bracelets
- played darts
- held a mic for karaoke
- put jewelry on
- spray
- moved out into my own place
- driving, etc...

Although I have to be creative on many of them, I'm proud to be able to accomplish them (even with difficulties).

Newer Projects

2011-06-13T14:49:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago, someone challenged me to pursue a new activity (project) -- painting. I'm not a painter, but I tried it. So far, here are the four that I've done:

Fantastic

2011-05-03T14:58:00.000-07:00

Hello! It's been a while, right? Sorry. I've been doing a lot of therapy. But, HARD WORK PAYS OFF. Aside from the wonderful things that came out of therapy, yesterday's session had an added bonus. What a fantastic day!

I brought with me a left over juice from lunch back to therapy. As I waited for a bit, I decided to have a drink. Well, heedlessly, I opened the bottle. Yes, that's right! I twisted the cap. Woohoo!

Therapy

2011-03-03T15:00:00.000-08:00

I had such a blast with therapy back in PA. Now, I am continuing it at a different location with (obviously) new therapists. Everyday is such a long day; nevertheless, the hard work surely pays off. As I work I learn more.

New Project....YAY!!

2011-01-25T18:33:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, one therapist (OT) brought yarn to therapy. Somehow, I was inspired to make a bracelet. Well, a few colors later and I (so far) made three.

Fun Night w/ New Activity

2011-01-22T10:03:00.000-08:00

Last night I went out with a group of people. I must say, they are wonderful! Anyway, we went to a restaurant/bar -- ate some food and just had a great time. Some played pool while I was included in a game of darts. YIKES!!!!! Hmmmm....let's think about this..... Although somewhat curious, I've never played it. But, what do you know..... I did alright! Truthfully, I didn't pay attention to the rules/scoring. I just wanted to see if I could throw. A few bulls eye, some points, and 2 broken darts later and I scored 198. That's right...198! I am extremely happy! Hopefully, I could keep practicing it. WOOHOO!

And More Drawings...

2011-01-11T17:24:00.001-08:00

WOW! WOW! WOW!

2011-01-07T21:46:00.000-08:00

My WOW activities lately are the following:

1. I played some card games (including Go Fish which I've never played before).

2. I've drawn a few more which are on the last post.

3. I played Bingo -- some with markers and, today, with pennies/Lego pieces.

4. I made a paper boat and plane.

5. And......... I played with a YOYO today!!! Woohoo!!!

These activities are WOW for me because some- if not all of them- are things I have not done in years.

More Drawings

2011-01-06T14:54:00.000-08:00

New Stuff.....

2011-01-05T19:11:00.000-08:00

God, thank you.

With my journey comes wonderful rewards. For instance, I wrote with my left just recently. Guess what? I'm right-handed. I've been doing better also with other things (ex. pinching). So far so good.

By the way, here's my recent artwork:

2011-01-05T19:04:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR! I HOPE EVERYONE HAD A GREAT HOLIDAY! I WISH EVERYONE THE BEST.

My Prayer

2010-12-14T18:42:00.000-08:00

God I thank you for this life.
Despite the obstacles, bad choices, frustrations, and sadness
you continue to bless me...
You always pull me up and show me the brighter way.
Today, alone, you gave me another miracle aside from what
you had recently given me.
Seven years and, here, such feeling comes alive.
Although there are times when I feel low, you are always
there to guide and show me the wonders.
You are always there also to listen. I Thank You.

Me = A Little Girl

2010-12-12T06:41:00.000-08:00

Recently, someone had mentioned about a little child who finally learned a particular skill on her own. Suddenly, such child gained a bit of independence and became cautious. Upon hearing such story, I realized that I am not so different. Here's what I mean:

I clearly need help with many things. However, once I learn how to manage a certain task I suddenly become more aware of my surroundings and (oops) I get cautious. Also, I turn timid and shy. Hmm...

Just sharing....

2010-12-03T14:07:00.000-08:00

What a journey I'm in! Although there's a lot of work involved, it is truly quite exciting. I know that I am still being secretive, but there is one thing I can say....I made a choice for myself that is remarkable and life changing.

Anyway, I was given the opportunity to spend Thanksgiving the way I wanted to. Thank you. It was WONDERFUL! I hope Christmas and New Year's Eve will be as fantastic (or greater).

Hi

2010-11-14T09:58:00.000-08:00

It's been a very long time since I've written something. I'm very sorry. I am currently going through another journey in my life. Such journey is certainly something new and a wonderful experience. Okay, okay..... I'm being secretive. Sorry. It's quite personal at this moment.

Crossroad

2010-09-15T17:14:00.000-07:00

So, it's been a little while since I've written something. I've just been going through quite a journey lately. I've been contemplating (again) about what I should be doing with my life. Ironically, I feel guilty every time I contemplate such thing. I am very thankful that I have a job (as I should be), especially, in today's economy; however, I get to the point -- my crossroad -- where I stop and think that there may be something else out there for me to do. Deep down I know there's a mission for me (as I've mentioned in an earlier post). Shouldn't I go ahead and pursue such mission? But, why don't I? Why do I stop every time I feel like I'm a step away from it? Oh yes.....I have bills. Arrrrrrggggghhhhh!

The Past Few Days -- ACA

2010-08-30T08:16:00.000-07:00

WHAT A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE! Where do I begin?

First, I finally experienced flying again since being amputated. Wow! I couldn't believe it. Although it was exhausting, the experience of being in a plane again was definitely worth it. I cannot wait for more opportunities.

I had to take a trip for the ACA conference. It was the first time for me. And you know what? I intend to attend more. It was empowering! It was exhilarating! It was fun! I always thirst for knowledge and I certainly got it. There are a lot to know about prosthetics -- the advancements and better logistics. A part of me felt like that I have outdated prostheses. But, I truly cannot ignore one of the greatest things regarding the conference (as I'm sure about the others). There was certainly a tight connection within all the attendees (whether one was an amputee or not). It was like being around family. Everyone was wonderful -- warm, friendly, and generous. In fact, I was so comfortable with everyone that I did not wear my prosthetic arms during one of the days I was there.

Thank you. I had a great time. I hope to be able to attend more of the conference.

Swelling...again....again....again.....

2010-08-10T16:06:00.000-07:00

Okay. I know I've written about this before, but maybe I should ask a doctor about an on and off issue I've been having. Why do my stumps (or one of them) swell every so often? At least, it's been happening again lately. How would I know if it is really my diet? For instance, if I order food, I wouldn't know how much salt is put in it. Could it be humidity? Or, could it be lack of exercise? Let me see....maybe all of the above. Whatever the cause is, it is certainly uncomfortable. It becomes difficult to stand too long just like yesterday as I was trying to get ready for work. Ahhh......

Links

2010-08-05T09:38:00.000-07:00

I just want to share a few links. Here they are:

1. http://www.stumps.org/ (Stumps R Us)

2. http://www.lessthanfour.org/ (Less Than Four / an amputee networking support)

3. http://amputee-network.blogspot.com/ (amputee network blog)

Patience

2010-08-03T17:06:00.000-07:00

I must always remind myself not to forget why I am here with this second chance. It is important for me to always know that I have a mission; therefore, I chose to write the previous post. You see (as difficult as it is to admit), I forget my purpose sometimes. I would suddenly find myself stressed, going through frustrations, and trying to resolve them. In other words, I tend to get caught up in the chaos of dealing with my reality.

Many have commended me for my strength and accomplishments. Perhaps, I'm just too hard on myself that, at times, I don't give myself the "pat on the back" that I need. I suppose it doesn't help that I have tendencies of being impatient too. I just want to be able to fully deal with my disability. Is that wrong? I know, I know. I must cherish patience since it will eventually help me too.

Mission

2010-08-03T16:38:00.000-07:00

There's a mission out there that I need to accomplish. It is what I believe to be positive and will bring light to everyone including myself. But, what is it? A part of me truly feels like I have to continue sharing my story. Perhaps, that is my mission. All I know is that I've been given a second chance in life. Such chance is not to be taken for granted -- a belief not to be forgotten.

I've shared my story multiple times. And I am grateful (Thank God) that I delivered each speech in a way that it reached everyone. I felt that the words were truly heard. Many expressed that they were inspired as they offered their support. Thank you because sharing my story becomes a healing process for me. So, maybe it is my mission.

Thank You

2010-07-31T09:56:00.000-07:00

Thank you to the followers of this blog and to all that have read it. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

I'm Feeling Stressed

2010-07-26T11:09:00.000-07:00

Okay.....I've been feeling a bit stressed lately. My mind is always busy with things I want to solve. Anyway, that's beside the point. I guess one of the stressors I deal with (still) is the adjustment period of being an amputee. Is it odd that I am still adjusting? A part of me feels like I should be used to how things are by now. Well, I'm not fully there yet. Everyday is a reality check. Yes, I admit I tend to be impatient. I suppose I just want to know where I stand with myself. Meaning, I believe I should know by now exactly what I need help with and what I don't. Or, is this just me rushing? I wish I can be a bit more descriptive but I do need to keep some things personal and private. Ahhhh.....I need a vacation!

Another Drawing

2010-07-25T13:51:00.000-07:00

This is another drawing I did a while ago with prosthetics.

I really love this one. Imagine, I created this without realizing how effective the outcome would be for me.

Slippers

2010-07-20T17:31:00.000-07:00

Currently, I have two pairs of prosthetic legs -- one for "going out" and the other is mainly for home use. It seems strange but that's how I do it.

You see, the one I use to go out with is a lot heavier. After a while, it's exhausting keeping them on, especially, when I wear heels. In other words, as soon as I get settled in after getting home I jump into the other ones -- the ones I'm more accustomed to. My "for home use" prosthetics are what I now consider slippers. Such slippers had been used a lot in the past too. In fact, sometimes I would still use them to go to the stores. However, the usage is quite limited (at least outdoors) since they squeak a lot. The squeaking led to the decision in making them my slippers.

I Just Remembered!

2010-07-19T17:58:00.000-07:00

I just remembered an incident that, somehow, I just have to mention. Did I ever tell you that I have a treadmill? Yes, I do. Ahhhhh.... It's currently collecting dust. Don't get me wrong. I've used it many times. However, there's this one particular incident that was a bit scary (although I can laugh about it now).

There was this one time when I decided to finally work out again. I looked smooth walking on the treadmill in a pretty good speed. I continued on challenging myself until one foot mistakenly stepped on the side. Yikes! I started to lose control. Only one leg was on the belt. What to do? What to do? I couldn't hold on to anything. Then I quickly remembered that there's a lesser chance in hurting myself if I fall on my buttocks. And so I did. Luckily, I didn't hit my head and/or fall completely on my back causing damages. I'm not sure if my theory is completely right, but I am glad to be alright.

I'm Bored....Sometimes

2010-07-19T05:10:00.000-07:00

I get bored sometimes. I believe what mostly causes the boredom is the lack of travel. Yes, I've done long distance driving; however, what I've been missing is travelling via air. The last time I've been on a plane was, perhaps, one or two years before becoming an amputee. I think I'm getting to the point in my life that I am ready to experience other adventures. Why not, right?

I want to experience being inside the airport. What type of assistance will I get? I want to know how it will be to be inside the plane. Will my stumps swell while up in the air? Sure, these are my concerns; but, I'm mainly thinking about the urge to travel. Is that wrong?

Oops

2010-07-18T05:18:00.000-07:00

So, it's 8:19 am and I'm wide awake. I woke up after 5:00 am to do something. After everything that needed to be done, I finally decided to go back to bed. Well, as soon as I took off the second leg it drops. There they are as I'm staring at them. One's standing perfectly on its own while the other is just resting on floor. At first, I was in a bit of a panic. But, someone reminded me of how easy it would be to reach for it. I know I can do it. If not, someone will be able to help me. Maybe the leg needs a break...hahaha.

It Takes One To Be Strong

2010-07-16T12:30:00.000-07:00

It takes one to be strong to deal with me. Now, I'm not necessarily saying I'm impossible to be with; however, I am still dealing with my disability. Everyday is a learning process for me. I still struggle with the idea (at times) that I am not fully independent. As a result, I go through frustrations. I can't really explain how it is. I just hope that people will "try" to understand.

My Mistake With The Prosthetic Legs......

2010-07-15T10:03:00.000-07:00

Throughout my disability, I've made the same mistake with my prosthetic legs -- not locking both legs before attempting to move. Well, as you can imagine such decision only caused harm to me.

Hmmm....where do I begin? A few years ago (when I've finally gotten accustomed to the legs), I started to lock my legs differently from what I was taught. Somehow, I figured that by standing on both of them at the same time, it would be easier to lock them. Well, that didn't last. I clearly remember this one particular time when I fell sideways as soon as I stood on both prosthetics. TIMBER.........!! Luckily, I didn't break anything. So, one would think I learned my lesson. I did until this one other time.

One day (about a year ago), my assistant (then) rang the doorbell. I suppose I woke up late because I panicked and quickly tried to put on the legs. But, they would not lock. Without any hesitation I thought that if I slowly walk while doing my very best to pick up my legs along the way, I would successfully open the door for my assistant. And, so I did. I was doing it and felt great (and dumb) about it. I was getting closer and closer to the door until I suddenly fell. Luckily (still), I didn't break anything. On the other hand, I hit against something and bruised myself. Anyway, I slid my way to the door and opened it. I felt terrible because the entire time my assistant was scared. That was definitely the last time I did that!

I'm Back!

2010-07-15T09:54:00.000-07:00

Sorry. It's been a while since I've written something. Well, today I woke up to do something. But after about an hour, one of my stumps (leg) began to hurt. It felt swollen as if it was going to bust out of my prosthetic leg. I loosened up the leg and eventually felt relief. It's quite odd that it's been happening lately since it's been a very long time that I've experienced such discomfort. Could it be my diet? Could it be lack of exercise? Or, could it be this one particular medication causing such pain? Whatever it is, I hope not to go through the swelling much longer.

Frustrations...Frustrations....Frustrations.....

2010-06-21T18:30:00.000-07:00

Perhaps, I've written about frustrations before. If so, I apologize for being repetitive. I feel somewhat responsible for mentioning it anyway. I say this because it is something I go through almost everyday (if not everyday).

Where do I start? I suppose that my frustrations really stem from my inability to do everything on my own. Yes, I am thankful for all the help I get. And yes, I am thankful for the many things I'm able to do on my own. I guess I get frustrated more when I'm doing well on one day as oppose to another day when the tasks are exactly the same. Does that make sense? I'm not entirely certain if the frustrations will eventually go away. I can only hope. You see, even though I believe that the frustrations are part of my physical change I don't like them (I suppose no one would). I see that there are many people around me that get affected. I'M SORRY.

Communication

2010-06-12T12:06:00.000-07:00

In my situation, I find it difficult (at times) to communicate about why I'm frustrated or why I choose to do things a certain way. I can't possibly make people understand what I'm going through. I can only do my best. Yes, there are instances, however, when I begin to wonder if I am understood. I suppose that I have to keep reminding myself that I need to have patience.

Support System

2010-06-11T13:22:00.000-07:00

How can I possibly go on without faith and the people in my life? I'm thankful to God for giving me a second chance and for giving me a lot of blessings -- family, friends, and the new people I meet along the way. They are my support system.

By the way, I just recently got in touch with two of my high school friends. I am extremely happy. I cannot believe it! Although I was a bit nervous, I told them about my disability; and I'm glad I did. They are also very supportive.

Thank you!

Relationships

2010-06-11T09:37:00.000-07:00

When I first became an amputee I was a bit fearful that I may no longer attract anyone. I thought that having a boyfriend would no longer be possible. My narrow-minded self at the time (I suppose) brought my self-esteem down. But I was wrong. I just needed to open my eyes and push aside the fear. Eventually, I stuck to just being myself and not allow my physical condition to be the main focus of my existence. In fact, not long after I started "going out" again, I began to date. Later, I got married (although it was short-lived). Then, I was in a relationship for a few years. I guess what I'm trying to say is...... IT IS POSSIBLE TO HAVE A RELATIONSHIP AS AN AMPUTEE.

Drawings

2010-06-11T09:18:00.000-07:00

This is one drawing I did wearing my prosthetic hands.

This Past Week

2010-06-06T07:34:00.000-07:00

Before anthing else....Thank you Dr. Heckman for adding my link to your site.

This past week I didn't go to work (which is probably a financial mistake) because of changes I had to go through. At the same time, I took advantage of the time off in order to look for employment opportunities I can do at home. Wow! It wasn't easy. Somehow, I guess, I hoped to find something right away. Well, I didn't (although hoping to receive a good response soon). I don't believe I have ever checked my emails so much before as compared to this week. But, it is a goal; therefore, I set myself out to continue doing such search.

Anyway, I will resume work this week. At least, this is my plan. Hopefully, from this point on, everything will go well and smoothly.

I'm Contemplating...

2010-05-31T08:18:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh...... Here I am full of thoughts. You know, hypnosis will less likely to work on me since my mind is always fully loaded. Anyway, over the past couple of years (I think), I've been thinking of what I should really do with myself. You see, having this second chance in life really means that I HAVE A PURPOSE. Although I've done public speaking numerous times, I truly believe that this is my calling -- to share my story as part of my healing and to hopefully inspire others. If only I can do this more... As for now, it seems like I need to make changes with my immediate situation. This is what I mean. Over the past few years, I've been experiencing issues w logistics and personal assistants. So, (lately) I've been contemplating on really finding something I can do at home while earning money. Furthermore, I've been really thinking of finishing my education so I can get that degree. I think that while situated at home I can actually eliminate some stresses I normally face. Of course, this is in no way my escape from the real world because, believe me, I will still be out and about.

Check It Out

2010-05-30T10:05:00.000-07:00

By the way guys, please check out some of my other blogs at www.lessthanfour.org/sheila. Less Than Four is a great site for amputees. I've made friends in such a short time. Thank you for the creator of this site.

Also, as I've mentioned on a previous post, one of my aunts created a book about me called A Life Reclaimed. Please check it out at http://www.booklocker.com/books/4311.html.

Fun Fun Fun

2010-05-30T06:19:00.000-07:00

I can still have fun! Just because I have a disability does not mean I have to isolate myself from the rest of the world. Once in a blue moon, I would go to the movies. Other times, I would either go to a restaurant/bar or a karaoke joint. Who knew I'd actually love to sing?! And, of course, there are times when I'm just too lazy to do anything.

Some Good Things To Share

2010-05-28T21:39:00.000-07:00

Despite my disability and the limitations, I am proud to say that I was able to accomplish a lot since the amputations. Although I don't remember which happened first, I will go ahead and share the details anyway. I shared my story a few times to a number of audiences -- support group, in school during The Disability Awareness Month, and in an assembly. I started my education again even if it is part-time. I still have a few more credits to go but I am extremely happy to say that I've maintained my Dean's List standing (and hope to remain that way until I complete my education). I am living in my own apartment and driving. Yay! I won an award from my rehab facility. I do my own hair (when short) and my own make-up. I am working. I type even without my prosthetic arms on (when I'm home). And, one of my aunts created a book about me called A Life Reclaimed. Oh and how can I forget to mention this, I am walking!

The Need For A Personal Assistant

2010-05-28T19:54:00.000-07:00

As much as I try to be independent, the reality is that I need assistance. But it breaks my spirit each time when I have to learn how to depend on someone new again. I've had many assistants throughout the years. But no matter what, I still cannot get used to the constant change.

Here's the thing.... having a personal assistant for majority of the daily necessities means putting trust (almost by no choice) towards that person. A relationship develops almost immediately and it either gets better or worse as time goes by. Now, aside from the status of such relationship, a routine also develops. Those are the issues (at least for me). I'm not great with changes. I believe that it has something to do with my disability. I find now that a routine is more helpful. Of course, I am thankful for all the help I get despite any issues with personal assistants.

The Store

2010-05-28T17:16:00.000-07:00

I know I shouldn't really live through my past. Well, it's hard. It seems wrong but I miss the days when I was able to go to any store without having to ask for someone's assistance. Don't get me wrong, there are a lot of people that are willing to help (and I'm extremely thankful), but I can't expect them to be available every time I get the urge to go shopping.

Anyway, when I suddenly have these thoughts I start to recall the days when I would go to the grocery store/s anytime I needed to buy food or drinks. And, of course, I can't forget the days when I would go shopping for clothes and shoes at anytime I wished to shop. Wow! Right now, I feel ungrateful. But I am and will always be grateful.

The Beginning

2010-05-28T15:21:00.000-07:00

I am a quadrilateral amputee. I lost both hands and both legs (below the knees) in 2003 due to meningococcemia. It was a quick and difficult transition.

Around the 4th of July weekend, I started to feel sick. In fact, I thought it was the flu. I felt groggy and had an upset stomach. Ironically, it wasn't the flu season. However, I didn't think that it could had been anything else. Well, I was mistaken. My entire body started to deteriorate affecting my overall physical strength, vision, and breathing. My family rushed me to the nearest hospital and was immediately treated as someone with meningococcemia. I was comatosed for eight days. Then I woke up and soon went through surgeries and treatments -- amputations, muscle transplant on the right wrist, hyperbaric chamber treatments, therapy (at a rehabilitation facility).

Now, here I am. I don't have real hands and real feet but still LIVING. Thank you God. Thank you to all my family, friends, and the many supporters.