When my best friend for 59 years, 55 as my wife, had a knee replacement go wrong 10 years ago, we never imagined Judy would now be choosing to have that same leg amputated, above the knee, to give her more mobility and improved quality of life.  Surgery scheduled for 11/23 at 11am.

Judy has suffered with lymphedema in that leg since the surgeries.  She has tried every kind of wrapping and compression, and inflatable compression that has been found.  She also suffers from RLS (restless leg syndrome) which complicates the issue.  Diabetes has also stepped in to further muddy the waters. The last couple years have brought repeated bouts with infections and iv antibiotics and clean-outs of the knee.

This September, the infections struck nearly without warning and went septic and have resulted in 11 weeks of ambulance trips, care in the ICU, as well as critical care units of the hospital and residential care in a local rehab center.

She is now strong enough to have the surgery to remove her leg midway on her thigh.

The top photo shows the leg as it has been most of the last two years, the photo with the marker line on the leg is where they do follow up measurements……currently 45 inches around. 

Judy is very positive about this surgery and knows it will be a big adjustment, but she made many adjustments just to get to this point. 

Home modifications, transportation modifications, total lifestyle adjustments and extensive ongoing therapy sessions are the immediate future and for some time to come.

Judy has always been here for all of us as MOM, Grandma, now Great Grandma, Aunt Judy, Sister, Friend, Neighbor and Wife.  I want to make this renewed journey as comfortable, safe and rewarding as possible.

Medicare and supplemental insurance has been great, but the next phase is sometimes difficult to work in the budget.  I have never wanted to ask for anything before, but I do want to make this as good as possible for Judy.

Many of you have Judy on your prayer lists and have been great support with calls, cards and visits.  Brothers and sisters have visited from Virginia,  South Dakota, Minnesota and Colorado.  Keep it coming, we need all the love we can get.

Thank you for letting me share this with you………..the last picture is Great Grandma Judy with Wyatt visiting her in the hospital.  She wants to be able to keep up with him in the future.