Coming to terms with limb amputation.

[so called]

The son of a friend of mine was hit massively by Sepsis later last year.
He was a fit, strong 32 year old but has suffered quite a lot of damage.
They worked hard to save him and save his left arm but earlier this month decided that his arm needs to be amputated.

He's really struggling to come to terms with this and the surgery date is fast approaching.

The only thing I can advise is for him to find a website or something where he can share/discuss with others in a similar position.
Has anyone on here been in such a situation ?

Thanks.

[popeyewhite]

Very likely he will need counselling. End of relationship, made redundant, limb amputation, all are linked to loss.

[colin_p]

I hate facebook and am silent on there for day to day stuff.

However, it is really good for having private or 'closed' support groups. You usually need to apply and give some reasons why you want to join, but once in they can be very good.

I'm in a few, mostly relating to heart issues, and the support can really make all the difference.

[so called]

colin_p said:

I hate facebook and am silent on there for day to day stuff.

However, it is really good for having private or 'closed' support groups. You usually need to apply and give some reasons why you want to join, but once in they can be very good.

I'm in a few, mostly relating to heart issues, and the support can really make all the difference.

I've just remembered that my daughter's on a Facebook site for Keinbocks disease.

Thanks very much.
Best wishes on the heart issues.

[redrabbit29]

colin_p said:

I hate facebook and am silent on there for day to day stuff.

However, it is really good for having private or 'closed' support groups. You usually need to apply and give some reasons why you want to join, but once in they can be very good.

I'm in a few, mostly relating to heart issues, and the support can really make all the difference.

100% agree. I didn't use Facebook for years, my account just sat there unused. However I then discovered the Groups on there and they're brilliant. Accessible and really supportive. There is also endless content and questions so it helps you feel like you're not alone.

[Burrow01]

Spoken to my friend, who has had a whole leg amputation (and is coming skiing with me next week ! )

"Go to :

Amputation Foundation

Limbpower

Limbless Association

The guy needs to speak to his surgical team before the amputation and find out if there is a patient support group where someone who has already had the procedure can give an experience overview. Also talk to the prosthetics team to show what life post amputation holds. I’d be surprised if he’s not been offered professional counselling pre amputation but you never know"

[popeyewhite]

Burrow01 said:

I’d be surprised if he’s not been offered professional counselling pre amputation but you never know"

This. It's important for recovery to plan for life without the limb.