The Active Amputee

Post by Bjoern Eser ⎮ November 14, 2018 ⎮ Inform & inspire

Dani Burt: World adaptive surfing champion, doctor of physical therapy, above knee amputee, motivational speaker

After surviving a motorcycle crash that put her in a long coma, Dani knew her life would never be the same again. She felt lost, confused, hurt and without hope. But her life was not over. It took many unexpected turns and today she is living her dreams. Learn more about her road to recovery and the many ways in which she now gives back and supports people who faced life-changing events. read more

Photo copyright by Michael Bresnan

Post by Bjoern Eser ⎮ November 8, 2018 ⎮ Inform

Das Genium X3 im Alltagstest

Im ersten Teil dieses Interviews haben wir Jasmin und Andreas etwas näher kennengelernt. Die beiden haben ihre jeweils ganz persönliche Geschichte mit uns geteilt. Sie haben uns erzählt, was sie in Zukunft noch so vorhaben und welche Ansprüche sie an eine Prothetikversorgung stellen. Andreas und Jasmin testen zur Zeit das überarbeitete Genium X3. Das Gelenk als auch einige andere Passteile wurden den beiden für einige Wochen von Ottobock zur Verfügung gestellt. Heute werden wir mehr von ihnen hören, welche Erfahrungen sie bis jetzt mit dem Knie so gemacht haben. read more

Post by Bjoern Eser ⎮ November 8, 2018 ⎮ Inform

First impressions of the new Genium X3

In the first part of this interview we got to know Jasmin and Andreas a bit better. The two of them shared their personal stories with us. They told about their plans for the future and what they expected from a prosthetic device to help them live their dreams. Andreas and Jasmin are currently testing the revised Genium X3. The knee as well as some other parts are provided to them by Ottobock so they can test them for a month. Today we will hear about their experiences so far. read more

Post by Bjoern Eser ⎮ November 7, 2018 ⎮ Inform

In den Startlöchern, um das neue Ottobock Genium X3 zu testen

Diese Woche habe ich das Vergnügen, mit Jasmin und Andreas aus Deutschland zu reden. Beide sind oberschenkelamputiert. Beide sind dies noch garnicht so lange. Beide haben vor ihrer Amputation eine lange Kranken-Odyssee hinter sich. Und beide testen zur Zeit das überarbeitete Genium X3 von Otto Bock. Heute möchte ich euch die beiden kurz vorstellen. Und morgen hören wir dann mehr über ihre Erfahrungen mit dem Kniegelenk. read more

Post by Bjoern Eser ⎮ November 7, 2018 ⎮ Inform

In the starting blocks to test the new Ottobock Genium X3

This week I have the pleasure to talk to Jasmin and Andreas from Germany. Both are above knee amputees. Both haven't been amputated for very long. Both have had a long odyssey before their amputation. And both are currently testing the revised Genium X3 by Ottobock. Today I would like to introduce them to you. And tomorrow we will hear more about their experiences with the micro-processor prosthesis. read more

Guest post by Michael Woods ⎮ November 4, 2018 ⎮ Inform

The seven pillars of inclusion

It is a fact, in many countries around the world, that some people face disadvantage when it comes to getting involved in sport activities. There are particular subgroups that have nuances and requirements that we need to cater for in order to ensure they can participate fully. So the question is, if we know these challenges exist what do we actually do about it? How do we take action on inclusion in our sport clubs and organisations? How do we talk about it? This post takes you through seven key aspects of inclusion. read more

Guest post by Michelle Jelleff ⎮ October 31, 2018 ⎮ Inform

The foundation that helps amputees to pursue their sporting dreams

The START foundation empowers amputees in life through sport, by providing grants to purchase sports prosthesis or adaptive equipment to help them achieve their sporting dreams. read more

Guest post by Dan Nunnelly ⎮ October 24, 2018 ⎮ Inspire

Amputee strongman and power lifter

Pulling a 45,000lb fire truck isn’t the first thing that comes to your mind when you think about the hobbies of the people around you. And this thought is even more impressive when the person you are thinking about is an amputee. But that is exactly what Dan Nunnelly from Dalles/Texas did. He is one of the growing number of strongman (men and women) and power lifters who are amputees. read more

Post by Bjoern Eser ⎮ October 21, 2018 ⎮ Inform

The Invictus Games Sydny 2018

At the moment, the eyes of many sports interested amputees are focused on Sydney. Between October 20-27, Sydney hosts this year’s Invictus Games, an international adaptive sports event in which wounded, injured or ill armed services personnel and veterans take part in sports. read more

Post by Bjoern Eser ⎮ October 17, 2018 ⎮ Inform

Six practical ideas for amputee awareness sessions in schools

I have been working on social change for the last 20odd years, earning a living as a trainer, consultant and advisor for conflict transformation and peacebuilding projects, mainly in Asia and Africa. Since I have started focussing on disability issues, I have applied many of the skills I honed during my years abroad to this new passion of mine. I recently had the chance to talk with students about what’s it like to be an amputee. I loved the interaction with the kids, their genuine interest and open-mindedness, their creative ideas and willingness to work towards inclusion. If you are interested to engage with schools, youth clubs and the like, here are some practical ideas to make things easier. read more

Guest post by Enock Glidden ⎮ October 5, 2018 ⎮ Inform & inspire

The Enock Glidden special - part IV: Reaching my summits

As a last post of this mini series, Enock shares what it takes to take on demanding projects and see them through. He talks about community, about gear, about training and preparation – and last but not least about which big adventure is next on his list. Enjoy this last post of the first ever The Active Amputee Special – The Enock Glidden Week. read more

Guest post by Enock Glidden ⎮ October 4, 2018 ⎮ Inform & inspire

The Enock Glidden special - part III: Climbing as an emormous group effort

Returning from Yosemite, Enock is back in Maine and somehow at a loss as how to thank everyone for the opportunity he was given and the people that made it possible, mostly strangers, but came away as friends. He feels sadness that comes from missing his second family of climbers and the beauty of Yosemite. read more

Guest post by Enock Glidden ⎮ October 3, 2018 ⎮ Inform & inspire

The Enock Glidden special - part II: Climbing El Cap - The video

In part one of our Enock Glidden special, Enock mentioned his passion for rock climbing. In October 2016 – two years ago this week – he attempted to climb the most iconic big wall in the world: Yosemite’s El Capitan. The 3,000 ft wall is a dream for many and attracts climbers from all around the globe. Climbing El Cap is demanding for experienced climbers who are in full control of all their limbs. Tackling the wall as a climber with a limb difference seemed almost impossible. But that didn’t prevent Enock from giving it a go. But see for yourself in this impressive video. read more

Guest post by Enock Glidden ⎮ October 2, 2018 ⎮ Inform & inspire

The Enock Glidden special - part I: Journey with Spida Bifida

Starting this fall, there will be several new features on The Active Amputee. One of these new features is a quarterly special. To kick off this new series, I am extremely happy to partner with one of the most inspirational people I have ever heard about. The always amazing Enock Glidden. Today, Enock will share his story with you. Tomorrow we will show a video about one of his most amazing feats. On Thursday it’s back to Enock and his reflections about teamwork and assistance before he talks about the preparation it takes to take on big adventures on Friday. read more

Post by Bjoern Eser ⎮ September 26, 2018 ⎮ Inform & inspire

Five podcasts every amputee should listen to

Yes! I admit it. I am a huge fan of podcasts. But despite my love for podcasts, it’s been only recently that I started listening to podcasts about amputees and others with limb differences. Why did it take me so long? Guess it’s been just a matter of never actually searching for one until I stumbled across my first amputee podcasts more or less by coincidence. And that got the ball rolling. Let me share some of the shows which I think you should give a try. My top five, so to speak. read more

Post by Bjoern Eser ⎮ September 23, 2018 ⎮ Inform

Beyond the clinic room conference

Last week saw the 8th edition of the annual PACE Rehab conference. This year’s topic was „Beyond the Clinic Room – Outcomes in The Real World“. The conference was all about transforming patients’ lives and enabling them to live an active life. Something that has been close to my heart for years, and a theme that has been the leading light for this blog from the very beginning. As it happened the event fell onto the very day that marks the 13th anniversary of my amputation. So it was a nice surprise to learn that a picture of me and my little one was chosen to head the invitations, the poster and program for the day. read more

Post by Bjoern Eser ⎮ September 19, 2018 ⎮ Inform

A matter of personal style

I am a strong advocate of bringing a fresh wind with a more personal touch and a wider personal choice to the prosthetic world. Artificial limbs and other prosthetic devices do not need to be skin-coloured boring tools that are designed according to purely practical considerations. So since the start of The Active Amputee I have regularly featured companies that broke new ground, provided prosthetic covers and enabled people with limb differences to develop their personal style and proudly wear their artificial limbs in public. So let me introduce U-Exist to you, a creative company from France that adds its vision and voice to the ever growing movement of personalized prosthetic devices. read more

Guest post by Patrick Young ⎮ September 16, 2018 ⎮ Inform

Starting something new: Strategies for entrpreneuer with a disability

Taking the plunge into a new business venture can be daunting in some respects, especially when you have a disability. However, with a couple clever strategies and some handy tools, you can successfully navigate the transition into a new career. Plus, delving into the world of entrepreneurship offers several noteworthy benefits to those who are disabled that make this route a tempting option. read more

Guest post by Dr. Liz Anderson-Peacock ⎮ September 12, 2018 ⎮ Inspire

Limb loss to life gained: Life beyond amputation and becoming more self-aware

Liz explores her journey of post traumatic growth and the conditions it needs to allow growth to happen. In her thought-provoking article she looks at the need to let go, to trust the process, fully commit to it and surrender to what will happen. An article full of inspiration or others faced with demanding situations. read more

Guest post by Steel Bones UK⎮ August 12, 2018 ⎮ Inform & inspire

Amputees summit the highest peak in England and Wales

On May 20, 2018 a group of determined, inspirational people set off on an amazing challenge to become the first amputees to climb Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in England and Wales. read more

Guest post by Amy Bream⎮ August 8, 2018 ⎮ Inform

From baby to boxer (kind of)

Amy, a young woman from Nashville has a soft spot for sarcasm, coffee, and fitness. She never considered herself an athletic person. Until she discovered her love for boxing, that is. Almost by accident. read more

Post by Bjoern Eser⎮ August 5, 2018 ⎮ Inform

A rocking month for collaborations

As you all know I set up The Active Amputee to provide information, to share inspiration and to create a community. And these last weeks have been amazing in terms of creating a community and investing in new collaborations with people far and wide. Here is just a quick run down of some of the new relationships I am so excited about. read more

Guest post by Lisa Ludwig⎮ August 1, 2018 ⎮ Inspire

From cancer survivor to mentor and brand ambassador

As part of my collaboration with yoocan I would like to share the story of Lisa Ludwig. Lisa was diagnosed with cancer at an early age. While the osteosarcoma took her leg, it never took her spirit and positive attitude. Several years later she is an active mentor to other cancer patients and amputees. In addition she has taken up the role as brand ambassador for a company that produces prosthetic covers. read more

Post by Bjoern Eser⎮ July 29, 2018 ⎮ Inform

Paraclimbing hacks: Securing your artificial limb to your harness

Who would have thought that lats week’a article - A simple introduction into paraclimbing as an above knee amputee - will be greeted by such a positive response. After the post went live on Wednesday, it took only minutes until the first reactions, additional questions, comments and thank you notes starting coming in. Wow, that is great. I really I wasn’t expecting that. read more

Post by Bjoern Eser⎮ July 25, 2018 ⎮ Inform

Paraclimbing: Ten easy steps to get into an amazing sport

Climbing is an amazing sport. Full stop. No matter if you are into bouldering or top-roped routes at a local climbing wall, prefer pre-bolted sport routes outdoors or love the thrill of proper multi-pitch trad climbing or a deep-water solo, the sport has something for everybody. And I mean everybody, no matter if you are able-bodied (what ever that is) or not.  But some hesitate to give it a try. To make things easier, I have compiled a simple beginners' guide: Ten easy steps to get into paraclimbing. It’s aimed at lover limb amputees, especially above knee amputees. read more

Post by Bjoern Eser⎮ July 22, 2018 ⎮ Inform

A big step for inclusive tourism in Nepal

All of you know that I am an above the knee amputee. Most of you know that I am an outdoor enthusiast with a passion for the hills and mountains. And some of you know that I have been a regular visitor to Nepal and had the chance to hike in the foothills of the Himalayas. So you can imagine how thrilled I that Nepal’s Tourism Board has just announced its first accessible trekking path in one of the country’s most breathtaking regions: Pokhara. Visitors to the 1.2 kilometer fully wheelchair accessible trail are greeted by the stunning panorama across the Annapurna and Manaslu range. read more