Supporting Vicki's New Chapter

Hi everyone,

I'm reaching out to you today with a heartfelt plea on behalf of my incredible mother, Vicki Clark. At 70 years young, Vicki recently faced a life-altering challenge: a below-the-knee amputation of her left leg due to Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). This news has profoundly impacted our family, but Vicki's spirit remains unbroken.

While insurance will thankfully cover essential medical equipment like a wheelchair and walker, there are many crucial needs that fall outside its scope. To truly support Vicki's recovery and ensure her continued independence, we need to make significant modifications to her home, transforming it into a safe and wheelchair-accessible haven. This includes adjustments like widening doorways, building ramps, and remodeling her bathroom. Beyond structural changes, there are numerous items that will greatly enhance her daily life and comfort, from specialized mobility aids to adaptive household tools.

Vicki has a message she wanted to share with you all, and I believe her own words capture the essence of her journey far better than I ever could:

"To all my beautiful, wonderful friends:

I have finally reached the point that I need to share with you all what has happened to me. It has been very traumatic , but it’s very important to let you, my friends, know where I’m at in my life right now, and what my plans are for moving forward.

For the past 6 years, I have been battling a disease in my legs called Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD for short). This is a disease where the arteries in the legs become clogged with plaque and makes it difficult for blood to circulate.

My Cardiologist and Vascular Surgeon worked for 6 yrs to save my leg but finally reached the point that there was no other choice to relieve the severe pain I was enduring and the recurring blood clots.

After meeting with me and my family, the decision was made to amputate the leg just below the knee. I don’t need to tell you what a scary decision that was. I have been here in the hospital 3+ weeks now. Although I still don’t have a discharge date, this will be followed by a rehabilitation program for another 2 weeks. The most important part of this story is how calm I have been able to remain through it all. I have received strength and determination, that there is LML - (life minus leg).

My biggest goal is to see something good come from all this. I already have so many ideas for making others aware of this disease and encouraging them to seek help for themselves.

I love all of you so very much and I want you to share this new life with me. I need your love and support, - and most of all, your prayers. I’ll be keeping you updated on my progress and leaning on your love, just as I am sending my love to all of you.

I have a long way to go but very excited about trying to help other people on this journey to learn more about PAD and save and learn how to go to the doctor immediately to get help. Believe me it starts fast. I send all my love to you and I know that you will send all your prayers to me. So much love to all.

Vicki"

Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a tangible difference in Vicki's life. Whether it's a financial donation to help us achieve our goal or the power of your thoughts and prayers, we are incredibly grateful for any support you can offer.

Thank you for being a part of Vicki's journey to reclaim her independence and quality of life.