Jackie's Prosthesis Fundraiser

Hi, my name is Jackie and I am a recent above-knee amputee. I am raising money to cover the costs of my new prosthesis and any associated medical fees that will arise over the next 5-6 years, including prosthesis adjustments and repairs, prosthesis sockets, liners, covers, physical therapy, mental health support, and other unforeseen expenses.

Unfortunately, the Ontario government only covers the most basic prosthesis, and they do not cover prosthetics with a microprocessor knee, which have been available for over 20 years. These types of prostheses are standard in the US.

The prosthesis I need is chargeable and has a microprocessor knee that matches the pace of its steps with my real knee and protects against falls, which is crucial for my safety. However, it is prohibitively expensive, costing $75,000 - $100,000!

Prosthetic limbs only last around 6 years which means I will have to pay for a new one every 6 years. Being disabled is extremely costly, and any support would be greatly appreciated.

My journey towards amputation began in August 2021 when I slipped in a bathtub while on vacation with my family. This accident caused me to fracture my left leg, which has a rare vascular condition. I underwent two surgeries and a five-week hospital stay, and for one year, I had metal rods sticking out of my leg. I will spare you the traumatic details post-surgery and for the next year.

Shockingly, in September 2022, just four weeks after my leg had healed, I fell again and fractured it for the second time. I was fed up with fractures controlling my life, so I decided to undergo amputation surgery in Toronto in December 2022. The recovery has been challenging, but it has also been life-changing for my quality of life and overall well-being.

I am now more independent, functional, and active than I have ever been before! I can participate in activities such as yoga and pilates, which were previously impossible for me to do. The amputation has lifted a weight from my shoulders, and I am much happier and less anxious about my health.

Now, I am embarking on the next phase of my recovery: getting fitted for my prosthesis. A prosthetic leg serves a function similar to a mobility device: it helps you walk. The ability to ambulate independently is a fundamental human right, and it is disheartening that the exorbitant cost of prosthetic limbs in Ontario creates a significant barrier to fulfilling this right for amputees.

My family and I would be extremely grateful for any financial support you can provide to aid in improving my quality of life. Your funds will go towards the cost of my prosthesis and additional medical expenses, helping me to live a more fulfilling, independent life. Thank you so much for your generosity!