Five Doctors Said No and She Lost Her Legs

A 21-year-old in the UK is facing a double leg amputation after her legs locked bent backward at a 45-degree angle — for eight years. She was turned away by five surgeons before one agreed to help, by which point the damage was irreversible. Dr. Chang and Jackie break down what went wrong, who bears responsibility, and why a delay in care can turn a treatable problem into a permanent one.Jackie raises the anonymous question that frames everything: "I've told four different doctors something is wrong and they keep telling me it's anxiety. How do I keep advocating for myself?"Dr. Chang addresses why women's health in particular remains understudied and why two things can be true at once — you can have anxiety and a real problem. The conversation ends with practical advice: find doctors who listen, use the internet to locate specialists, and never stop pushing.Source: People, Locked and Turned Upwards at a 45-Degree Angle. Now, She Needs an AmputationHOSTSJackie O'Brien RN, BSN, CNORClinical Director at Cedar Lane Surgery CenterWith 12 years of OR experience and training at Georgetown University Hospital, Jackie brings expert-level knowledge in plastic, trauma, general, vascular, and ophthalmic surgery. A proud George Mason alum and CNOR-certified perfectionist, she leads with passion, precision, and a love for all things surgical. Off the clock, she's exploring new restaurants, hitting concerts and wineries, or hanging out with her cat—Biggie Smalls, the real boss at home.Christopher Chang, MDPlastic SurgeonConsidered to be one of the top plastic surgeons in DC, Dr. Chang specializes in facial and breast augmentation surgery and has acquired several advanced degrees and training from some of the most selective universities in the country.Double board certified in plastic and facial plastic surgery, with specialized experience in facial surgery and pediatric reconstruction, Dr. Chang prioritizes precision over trends and thoughtful care over pressure. Based in Washington, DC, he serves a diverse community, respecting each patient's preferences for discretion, communication, and natural-looking results.About Secret ServicesIn DC, everyone has secrets — especially when it comes to cosmetic surgery. Plastic surgeon Dr. Christopher Chang and his sharp-witted team see everything and say nothing — except on this podcast, where every week you'll get answers to confidential patient questions. Because in an era when aging gracefully and looking natural is easier than ever, it all depends on who you know—and what they're willing to tell you.LinksLearn more about Washington, D.C. plastic surgeon Dr. Christopher ChangFollow Dr. Chang on Instagram @dcplasticsurgeon @congressionalplasticsurgeryAnd on TikTok @congressionalpsurgeryHost: Christopher Chang, MDProducer: Eva Sheie @ The AxisAssistant Producers: Mary Ellen Clarkson & Laura MayusaEngineering: Chris MannTheme music: Harry's Perfume - Harry EdvinoCover Art: Dan ChildsSecret Services is a production of The Axis