Future For Charlie

It’s with a heavy heart that I am writing this piece as this is something I never wanted to do.

Unfortunately, I no longer have any choice in the matter.

I contracted meningitis back in 2008, at the age of eleven. Since then, life has been full of challenges, countless operations, comebacks, and whatever else.

Unfortunately for me and despite all of our efforts, the challenges continue. For most of this past year I have had to deal with the reality that, having lost a leg and an arm already, I now must have my other leg amputated...shit happens!

As you would think, life gets far more challenging the more limbs you lose. The increased reliance on your surviving limbs after an amputation is just extraordinary. Even just the smallest of things you took for granted prior to an amputation is no longer something you are able to do and then it’s up to you to find your new way of getting these things done. I’ve been quite good at finding these new ways to date, but after this one, I’m going to need a lot of help. 

So, I guess this is mainly what this post is about.

A working prosthetic arm is something I have always wanted but with the upcoming challenge ahead, it has gotten to the point where I actually need it in-order for me to be able to function in any meaningful way.

After my upcoming surgery takes place this September, I will be left with no legs and just one arm and the implications of this for me personally, are huge. One of the backlashes of this operation for me is that it means I will no longer be insured to drive a normal automatic car as I am doing now. Major modifications will be needed for whatever cars I drive for the rest of my life and a bionic arm is required in order to be able to manoeuvre those modifications. 

It’s only when you experience what goes with acquiring a prosthesis that you realise how expensive even the smallest of parts cost, whether it’s an attachment for an arm or a leg, you’re generally talking thousands of euros. Unfortunately, when you are dealing with three prosthetic limbs, you find yourself acquiring different parts on a continuous basis. 

The bionic arm I am currently being fitted for is costing €100,000 and if I want to be able explore other opportunities such as running, cycling and return to golf after my recovery, I’ve been told that the cost of these legs are in this region as well. . . 

My ambitions after this surgery are sky high and so it would be a life changer for me if I was able to get these pieces/limbs as I need them and not wait months / years for them to be POSSIBLY partly funded by the HSE. 

I fully appreciate this is a huge ask but unfortunately given my current situation, I have to face my reality. 

I’d like to thank everybody for their continued support, kindness and generosity, I can’t put into words how grateful I am. I will be sure to keep you updated as to how my recovery is going post-op.

Thanks again,

Charlie.