AMPUTEE SUPPORT GROUP OF

NORTHERN VIRGINIA NEWSLETTER

Support Group Meeting

Charlie Crone of Nascott Rehabilitation, Hugh Elliot, Beth Harris, Brian Jans, Ben Sides, Patti Skinner, Eugenia Thatcher and George Willis

News and Announcements

ASGNVA Funds and Contributions — I have been unable to verify, after repeated requests, if there have been any contributions to ASGNVA Fund 352 since August.  If you have made a contribution to ASGNVA’s fund and I have not noted it here, please let me know so that I can check on it.

          This is ASGNVA’s fund to publish/mail our newsletter and New Amputee Information Packets.  ASGNVA does not charge any dues.  If you can, please make a contribution today.

          To obtain a contribution form, call 703-289-2072.

          To contribute by check or money order, Payable to Inova Foundation Fund 352, Inova Health System Foundation, 8110 Gatehouse Road, Falls Church, VA 22042. 

          To contribute by credit card, https://connect.inova.com/j/inovanet.srt/forms/donation/donatenow.htm.

Remember to indicate Inova Foundation Fund 352.  

ASGNVA Web Pages — Inova Fairfax Hospital’s official ASGNVA web page:

www.inova.org/inovapublic.srt/rehabilitation/amputee_support.htm.

The ASGNVA UNOFFICIAL WEB PAGE: 

home.earthlink.net/~asgnva/ASGNVA.html.

Newsletters and other information will continue to be added to the unofficial web page, as applicable. Contact Beth Harris, 540-439-3656 or asgnva@earthlink.net, if you want anything added to the page, find something missing or wrong, etc. I am considering moving the web page to yahoo. Any comments?

ASGNVA Lending Library — Come to a meeting and borrow a book or get the new handouts for amputees. To borrow materials from ASGNVA’s Lending Library, please contact Jason Bulger at 301-680-2159, or Beth Harris at 540-439-3656 or e-mail asgnva@earthlink.net. 

Services and Products

Mobility System Further Improves the Independence of People with Disabilities — Independence Technology L.L.C., a Johnson & Johnson company, has announced market introduction of the next generation of its groundbreaking INDEPENDENCE® iBOT™ Mobility System. The iBOT™ 4000 offers a number of significant enhancements over the original iBOT™ 3000 model, which was introduced in 2003.  

          Through continued development of the iBOT™ Mobility System, Independence Technology is helping change the way people with disabilities view the world and the way the world views them. Using a unique combination of electronics, sensors and software, the iBOT™ allows users to raise themselves to eye level, climb stairs and gives them a greater sense of independence and freedom to go where they want to go.  

          In response to customer and health care professional input, the iBOT™ 4000 offers users a number of enhanced features:  

• A lower floor to seat height allowing the user to maneuver more easily when seated at a table or desk.
• The user can occupy the Mobility System while being transported in a wheelchair-accessible vehicle.
• The power button has been repositioned to make it more accessible to the user.
• Swing-away footrests for ease of entry and exit from the Mobility System.
• Features enhanced drive performance, providing users with a smoother and quieter ride.
• Features a choice of two seats: a rehab seat and an automotive seat.

          Since its introduction to the marketplace, the iBOT 3000 has provided people with disabilities with a new perspective on their lives. The iBOT Mobility System's patented gyroscope technology enables users to carry on eye-to-eye level conversations with friends and family as they operate the Mobility System, while in the seated position. The technology also gives users the independence to climb stairs with or without assistance and allows them to move through many types of terrain.  

          Independence Technology is working to make this groundbreaking prescription product widely available to those with disabilities. After completing a screening evaluation, customers can test-drive the iBOT 4000 at various locations throughout the US and UK.

          The iBOT is a prescription product and requires an assessment by a health care professional at an iBOT Evaluation Center. The staff at these facilities has received extensive training in order to prepare the facility or clinic to prescribe the device. The iBOT Mobility System may not be suitable for everyone. US consumers interested in test-driving the iBOT 4000 should call Independence Technology's Customer Zone toll-free at: 866-813-0789 or go online at http://www.ibotnow.com to see if the iBOT Mobility System is right for them.  

Advocacy and Self-Help

Heather Mills McCartney Loses Leg In Row With J Lo's Guards — Sir Paul McCartney's amputee wife, Heather Mills McCartney, lost her prosthetic leg during a violent confrontation with security guards at Jennifer Lopez's New York office.

          The incident happened on Tuesday, September 13, 2005, as the former model-turned animal rights activist attempted to deliver a People For The Ethical Treatment Of Animals (PETA) DVD showing creatures being killed for fur to Lopez, following a demonstration at which the 37-year-old pleaded with fans to boycott the superstar's music, movies and clothes because she uses fur in her fashion range Sweetface.

           After striding into the building opposite Manhattan's Bryant Park, accompanied by an entourage of journalists and photographers, Mills McCartney - who lost a leg after being hit by a car in 1993 - was confronted by burley minders who yelled, "You have no authority to be here. Get out! Leave the floor immediately!”

          In the tussle that ensued, Mills McCartney's prosthetic leg became detached.

          She bent down and clutched her knee in pain, before asking to use a bathroom so she could reattach the leg. Guards refused and she was forced to cling onto a photographer as she carried out the humiliating task on a stairwell.

          Photographer Richard Corkery tells 25hoursonline.com, "I saw her touch her knee and I could see she was in pain. She limped to the ladies room but it was locked. I found another door open - it lead on to the stairwell. At least she could have a private moment - which is what she needed."

          According to 25hoursonline.com, Lopez's guards continued to verbally attack the group by screaming, "Call the cops! Call the cops!!” until Mills McCartney recovered her composure and was able to leave.

My Thoughts  — I have received a few e-mails about Katrina from friends who have expressed their patriotism and their wish to pull together as a nation and be less critical and more supportive of our country. At the same time, however, it must be said that the inequity is so glaring. If you saw the polls they did on Katrina response and racial issues, a large percentage of African-Americans believed that Katrina victims were given less help because they were black, yet few white people believe that is the case. Also, many disabled people felt discriminated against, as there was no emergency planning in place for them, although the able-bodied shrug it off. Why don't we see it the same way?

          What I have learned is that people don't see or believe what they don't experience. Why should they? Able-bodied people don't experience the little slights, outright rudeness, and myriad forms of discrimination which disabled people live with every day. When was the last time they were unable to go to or enter a store? Or were unable to get into the bathroom in public?  How could you believe it, if you don't experience it?

          Yet, the people who do experience it know how real it is. When we say pull together and stop criticizing our country, it sweeps under the rug the reality of the unequal treatment. Yes, let’s pull together as a nation--starting with a better job of protecting our poor, our elderly and our disabled. Let's pull together as the great nation that we are.

          Each month I will ask you to advocate for yourself and for something else – something for the good of everyone. You must advocate for yourself so that you will be able to advocate for something else. Disabled people have a high incidence of depression and suicide. They are lonely. The same is true for our elderly population. Why? They sit at home, or in a home, day-after-day, with nothing to do.

          Disabled people lack social interaction in all aspects of their lives (Harris report, 2004). I cannot fix that but I can give you steps to follow to advocate for yourself. I know that advocating for yourself empowers you and then you are able to improve yourself. 

          And, it’s not too late and you’re not too old, or too tired, or too whatever to advocate for yourself. In the year 2000, a virus tried to kill me and almost succeeded. When I came home from the hospital after a month of being in Intensive Care, I was unable to do anything for myself. I didn’t even have the strength to feed myself for about two weeks. But, as soon as I was able, I started exercising with my soup cans. (I use soup cans at first because they usually weigh 8 ounces and aren’t too big around to hold in your hand.) By 2003, I was doing everything I had done before as well as mowing my yard and a few other things I shouldn’t have been doing.  Plus I had lost 40 pounds without really dieting! I enabled myself to get out of bed, out of the house and to go anywhere I wanted to go. And, you can too! It takes a little dedication and time.

            Self-Advocacy.  Did you work on your Health Journal from last month? This month get your soup cans out and do up to 20 arm curls a day (do as many as you can). First, take three deep breaths while raising your hands over your head and then bring them down slowly. Then, just sit with your arms beside you, holding the soup cans, and lift your lower arms up to your shoulders. When you’re finished with your arm curls, finish with another couple of deep breaths. Very good.

          Next month we’ll add something else for you to do for yourself.  And, remember to keep your Medical Journal up to date.  Did you go to the doctors or have any tests performed since last month?  Did any of your medications change?  Jot them down now in your Medical Journal so you don’t forget.

Member Updates

Marshall Sowers — It is with a heavy heart that I regret to inform you that Marshall Sowers died on April 25, 2005. Marshall was a good guy and the oldest member of the Amputee Support Group. A few years ago, he had surgery on his kidneys and we haven’t seen much of him since then. I wish I had known sooner so that those of you who knew Marshall could have attended his services. I will send a sympathy card to his family.

Scheduled Events

Sweetest Day (October 15) — If you agree that the world could use a little more sweetness, share Sweetest Day with someone you know on October 15! Sweetest Day is considered a time to remember others with a kind act - the sort of thing that would make someone say, "That was so sweet of you!"

October is National Breast Cancer Month

National Disability Mentoring Day — If you have been dreaming of a particular career but are not quite sure of all the details, here is your opportunity to learn more. Spearheaded by the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), "Disability Mentoring Day (DMD): Career Development for the 21st Century," will be commemorated on Wednesday, October 19, 2005 as the official kick-off for a year-round effort.

          According to Andrew Imparato, AAPD president and CEO, Disability Mentoring Day "builds relationships between mentees and mentors working in fields that interest them and building a year-round career exploration program. [This day] helps to create a pipeline of qualified workers and gives people with disabilities greater direction and motivation." DMD offers students and job seekers with disabilities an opportunity to evaluate personal goals, target career skills for improvement, explore possible career paths, and develop lasting mentor relationships while spending their day visiting with a volunteer mentor from a business or government agency that matches their interests.

          To learn more, contact your local Disability Mentoring Day coordinator. To locate your coordinator, contact the American Association of People with Disabilities at 800-840-8844 or visit their DMD website at www.dmd-aapd.org/.

World Of Possibilities Disabilities Expo And Senior Expo 2005 — Friday, November 4, 2005, 10 a.m. - 9:30 p.m., and Saturday, November 5, 2005, 10 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. at Landmark Mall, Alexandria, Virginia.  New this year, a large Senior Expo will be held in conjunction with the Disabilities Expo in Alexandria, VA. These consumer expositions give attendees an opportunity to explore a vast array of products and services all conveniently displayed in a "one-stop shopping" experience. This will give individuals who do not typically have easy access to comparison shopping, a hands-on opportunity to try devices and speak directly to equipment representatives about products and services. World Of Possibilities will also offer informative workshops, demonstrations, and representatives from local and statewide agencies/organizations to assist the community in gaining more information about supports, services and resources that they may need now or in the future. Features include:

• Durable medical products and resources
• Assistive and adaptive equipment
• Local agencies and support groups
• Informative workshops (from children’s issues such as parent’s rights, positive behavioral supports, and inclusion, through adult issues such as housing, transportation, and supported employment and more)
• Free benefits planning and a help desk
• Product demonstrations
• Exhibitors and attendees from across America (and outside the USA)
• Meet and greet Disabilities Champions (dignitaries will be invited to make special appearances)
• Plays
• Art Exhibits
• Strolling entertainers including jugglers, clowns and magicians
• Raffles and giveaways
• Radio and television personalities
• Celebrities and mascots
• Free wheelchair rentals and free emergency repair services
• First aid station on site
• Personal care attendants
• Free admission and free parking
  

ASGNVA Monthly Meeting —

The next monthly meeting is November 1, 2005. Greg Wright, CPO, from Us Orthotics and Prosthetics in Fredericksburg, Virginia, is going to make the trip up here and to give us a presentation on How Do You Know When It’s Time To Call Your Prosthetist?  Greg is certified in more than one area - ABC Certified Prosthetist; BOC Prosthetist and Orthotist; ABC-Registered Technician, Prosthetics; AAOP Member; Certified VA Rehabilitation Provider – and has been designing, fabricating and fitting custom prosthetics since 1990. He understands the complexity and dynamics of a proper fit, gait analysis, and upper and lower limb function. This enables him to offer state-of-the-art products for individual functional levels and needs, for children as well as adults and seniors.

          Do you have a subject or topic you would like to see covered at a meeting? If so, please call Beth Harris at 540-439-3656 or e-mail asgnva@earthlink.net. Any and all suggestions are appreciated.

Calendar of Events for 2005 —

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MARK SENKER!   

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO BOB McKENNA!  

 Fire Prevention Week

Self-management: Taking Charge of Your Health

What is a chronic illness?  There are 2 main types of illness: acute and chronic. An acute illness doesn’t last very long. It goes away either on its own or in response to treatment, such as taking medicine or having surgery. Strep throat is an example of an acute illness.

          A chronic illness is ongoing. It affects your health over a long period of time—possibly your entire life. In many cases, there is no way to cure a chronic illness. Diabetes and high blood pressure are examples of chronic illnesses.

            What can I do if I have a chronic illness?  It’s important to understand that your chronic illness is a serious problem. If you don’t believe this, you’ll never be motivated to manage your illness effectively. Managing your illness involves making lifestyle choices and using prescribed medical treatments to be as healthy as possible. Unless you take care of your body, your chronic illness can cause problems in the future.

          When you have a chronic health problem, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and helpless, as if the illness has taken over your life. For example, you may need to take daily insulin injections, use an inhaler or monitor your blood pressure. However, you can take steps to control the negative effects of a chronic illness on your health. One method of taking control is called “self-management.”

          What is self-management of a chronic illness?  Self-management of a chronic illness means that you take responsibility for doing what it takes to manage your illness effectively. It’s important for you to be responsible for your health because the treatment recommendations your doctor makes won’t do any good unless you follow them. He or she can’t make decisions for you or make you change your behavior. Only you can do these things.

          In self-management, you and your doctor are partners in care. Your doctor can provide valuable advice and information to help you deal with your illness. However, the treatment plan that works best for one person with your condition won’t necessarily work best for you. Talk to your doctor about the different treatment options available and help him or her create a plan that’s right for you. After all, nobody knows more than you do about your feelings, your actions and how your health problems affect you.

          As part of self-management, it’s also your responsibility to ask for the help you need to deal with your illness. This support can come from friends and family members, as well as from your doctor or a support group for people with your health problem.

          How can self-management help a person who has a chronic illness?  Once you’ve decided to take an active role in managing your illness, you and your doctor can work together to set goals that will lead to better health. These goals will be part of an overall treatment plan.

            Pick a problem. Take an honest look at the unhealthy aspects of your lifestyle. Start with a behavior that you’d like to change in order to have better control of your illness. For example, you might decide that you don’t eat enough vegetables, get enough exercise or take your medicines as your doctor tells you to.

            Get specific. Once you’ve identified a problem, state a specific goal for dealing with it. The more specific your goal is, the more likely you are to succeed. For example, instead of saying, “I’m going to exercise more,” decide what kind of exercise you’ll do. Be specific about what days of the week you’ll exercise and what times you’ll exercise on those days. Your new goal might be: “During my lunch hour on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, I’m going to walk 1 mile in the park.”

            Plan ahead. After you’ve stated your goal, think of things that could go wrong and plan how you’ll deal with them. For example, if it rains and you can’t go to the park, where you will go to walk? If you plan how to handle problems in advance, they won’t prevent you from meeting your goals.

            Check your confidence level. Ask yourself, “How confident am I that I’ll be able to meet this goal?” If the answer is “Not very confident,” you may need to start with a more realistic goal.

            Follow up. As you’re working toward your goal, check in regularly with your doctor to let him or her know how you’re doing. If you’re having trouble following the plan, talk to your doctor to figure out why. Your setbacks can be learning experiences that can help you make a new plan for success.

          One of the most important things to remember is that you can change your behavior. Even though your illness makes you feel helpless at times, if you work with your doctor to set goals and you take responsibility for following through with them, you can make changes that will lead to better health!

SHARE YOUR KNOWLEDGE AND AMPUTEE EXPERTISE!

ATTEND A SUPPORT GROUP MEETING!

7:30-9:00 p.m., NOVEMBER 1 MEETING

How Do You Know When It’s Time To Call Your Prosthetist?

Presentation by Greg Wright, CPO, Us Orthotics & Prosthetics

Contact Beth Harris, 540-439-3656, BeTheHarris@earthlink.net,

or ASGNVA@earthlink.net

Amputee Support Group of No. VA

c/o Beth Harris

6316 Sumerduck Road

Remington, VA 22734-2308

                                                                                                    RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED           

NOVEMBER MEETING PRESENTATION

How Do You Know When It’s

Time To Call Your Prosthetist?              NEXT MEETING IS NOVEMBER 1, 2005!

Presentation by Greg Wright, CPO                        PUT IT ON YOUR CALENDAR NOW!

Us Orthotics & Prosthetics                        PROFESSIONAL SPEAKER AND PRESENTATION!