I made a new friend today. And not just on Facebook, though that's how it came to be. Ian is his name, and he's an amputee. He found me through a common Facebook group, and I am so glad he did because his story gave me JUST the encouragement I needed today. That ever happened to you? You run into an old friend who puts your own troubles into perspective? Or motivates you to get back to the gym or to church?
The funny part was the messages that went back and forth between the two of us.
"So, not to be crass, but, do you have hands?"
"Nope. You?"
"Well, sort of. They are pretty messed up."
(This was definitely not a conversation you'd see on Ashley Madison.)
"Hey, I hear you have a foot? How's that working out for you?"
"Ha ha." (Wait, maybe he's serious)
"They talked about saving my foot but decided against it." (Oh, yup, he was just curious)
The conversation went on. And it was great to talk to someone who understood. He is a few years ahead of me in his recovery from sepsis. He wins in the hands department. But I have more feet. And I have more kids. I win!
I talk to people in the amputee community that live all over the country, one even in Panama. And I hang out with amputees around Charlotte too. They have quickly become my family. And I don't know what I'd do without them. They teach me, encourage me, support me. They amaze me. I know these bonds will only grow stronger as I delve deeper into my amputee life.
"It was great talking to you."
"Yeah, Thanks for friending me! I'll look into that new leg you were telling me about. We'll talk soon. Gotta run! (Not literally, of course 😜)"