Changes and Challenges

New Socket and What To Expect Here we go again! Last week I told you all about a huge blister that formed in my socket on the end of my residual limb, well, after talking to my prosthetist about that and a few other things that I was ignoring, he decided that it was time to make a new socket! UGH!! Where great sockets are made!! Randy West and I getting ready to make a mess! Cast is made! I know what you’re thinking. “That’s great! You’ll have a better fit than what you have now”, and that is true, however, the idea of going through the casting and fitting process, then a week of walking around in a hard plastic shell test socket isn’t fun and then after it’s all created there is a “breaking in”period that can last up to another week. All the while you are hoping that the changes move you in the right direction. My current socket being used to remake the original mold All in all, it will be better (or at least that is the hope). My guys do an amazing job of getting me the best fit, they are incredible at what they do, and I am blessed to have them in my corner. It’s just that it is such a long and, at times, painful process that brings discomfort before it brings joy. So I am going this week to be recast and will create a video of the process for you to see. I bring this up for a couple of reasons. This is my life, and my podcast is about my personal journey, that I can speak to. It’s important to note that even though I’m through the harder years of fitting my prosthesis, there will still be changes that happen down the road, and being an amputee has ever-changing challenges and struggles. I’m excited, for sure, to get a new fitting socket and the idea of recreating my external design has me giddy. I love remaking my look. But I am a realist as well, and I know what I am about to embark on is a process that takes time, perseverance, and grit to get through. I know what’s coming and I know it can be unpleasant at times, but I also know it will help me get the most intimate fit ever and it’s important to my livelihood. I will keep you posted on social media on how it’s going. Make sure you check out my IG and/or my Facebook page @BAWarrior360 for updates. I would tell you to continue to communicate with your prosthetist as your limb matures and when you notice things “happening” with the fit, even minor changes, that you should let them know before you get a blister like mine, or worse! I am fortunate that I don’t develop infections like some people do, but this one could’ve been bad for a person with a high infection rate. Be vigilant with your life, your fit, and your comfort. If things don’t feel right, please make sure you reach out to your team. It’s better to be safe than sorry and laid up for weeks because you “pushed” through something you shouldn’t have. Also, remember that your limb and your body are constantly changing, no matter how long you’ve been an amputee. Don’t think that you are ___ years out and you won’t see any more changes. I’m almost 6 years out and I’m heading in for a new socket because of fit, not damage to my socket. Our bodies are always changing and fluctuating, take note, and be vigilant when you notice something look or feel different. I hope you have an amazing week and until next time, And as always, B e Healthy, Be Happy, Be YOU!!! Much love, Choose to Shine!