People don’t even blink when someone has a defective gallbladder or uterus removed. If it’s something that is so far damaged or diseased that it ceases to function properly and causes constant pain…it’s scalpel time. I appreciate your bravery and honesty on your channel.
I didn't have to make this decision for myself. my parents had to make it for me before I was 3 years old. They chose to have my leg amputated less than a week after my 3rd birthday. Was it the right choice? About 15 years ago I was participating in an amputee support forum. In my profile I had the detailed reason for my amputation on the unlikely event that someone else had the same problem,.I got an e-mail from an 11-year-old boy from Australia who had the exact problem I had, but his parents had made the choice to keep his leg. By age 11 he had broken his leg 14 times, he had to wear a brace that prevented him from running. His leg hurt all the time and he could only watch his friends play but he could never do any sports himself because his leg was so fragile. He wanted my help in talking his parents into having his leg amputated.I spoke to his parents, and I got my parents in touch with his parents, thinking they could help. In the end they went ahead and amputated. 6 months later he tried out for and made the local kid's soccer team. The results were amazing. He was able to run and play for the first time. That was the last I heard from him, but I assume he's still doing fine. Sometimes amputation isn't just the correct choice, it's the only choice. It doesn't really matter what other, ignorant people think. All that matters is what is right for you. My parents spared me from 8 years of being unable to play, of the pain of breaking my leg twice a year, and of so much more hardship than I would have had. I always knew my parents made the right choice. But having that interaction just confirmed it.
Not me crying 😭 I have similar story with being a rare human in a support group sharing my story in hopes that someone someday might find it helpful. You’re awesome and thank you for another representation of different mobility ≠ bad/wrong mobility
I can't get over how different you seem in those pre-amputation videos. You're chipper on the outside, but so clearly weighed down, like that ankle was a mental ball and chain as well as a physical one. Being a severe chronic pain patient myself, I can really see how much pain you were in -- physical and psychological. And then looking at you now, it's like you've had a thousand pound weight lifted from you. You clearly have so much more hope and such a clear vision of what your future could hold. In the old videos, it seems like your famously sunny demeanour is costing you energy, while now it just seems like a natural expression of the energy you already have. I'm so, so profoundly, genuinely happy for you, Jo 💖 You deserve every ounce of good stuff that's now happening for you. Thank you so, so much for sharing everything you have and continue to share with us.
I stumbled upon your channel because my husband fell off a 3 story roof and tumbled through a tree that saved his life but destroyed his right ankle. Every ligament except the achilles was ripped off the bone, and his fibula never grew back together. He's had multiple major surgeries on it (that had him completely non-weight bearing for over a year) and is at a place where they want to fuse it. (His scars look a lot like yours did and are very painful with trapped nerves.) His other leg joints and back are in pain from how his ankle affects the way he moves. He's had the surgeon that told him to just live with the pain and lack of mobility. I'm not sure if he'll decide to fuse his ankle and/or eventually amputate it, but I'm very grateful to have discovered your channel and love the way you articulate your thoughts and journey.
I love the different between 2 years ago Jo and now Jo. You seem so much happier now that you don't have a part of your body that hurts all the time. It really makes me happy to see you so happy
As an OG viewer the only thing that kept me from seriously tearing up was the hilarious live commentary. Love you Jo. I'm glad to be back in the comments again
Hi Joe I had a right below knee operation about2 months before you my story was a little different for your but did have 5 major operations on my foot & ankle over a period of 5 1/2 years before my quality of life had hit rock bottom as I was not able to walk for any period of time before it became so painful & started getting problems they back & hip. That was when I finally made the decision for he amputation which in all took another six months but after the op the pain blocker also never worked but also made it worse. But to cut along story short I am moving around a lot better.Your videos helped me see that I was not the only one as an isolated case and seeing that helped me balance out a lot of things( abit more to go ).i can also relate to other peoples options but i stuck true to my mind and so far it is so much better. All in all I just want to thank you for all your life story’s and HOPE all keeps moving forward in a positive way. Marc. XxX
I just started working at a care center, and one of our residents is an amputee. I'm so glad your channel is here. You normalized his situation for me. I walked into his room the first time and didn't even flinch. I honestly thought "Oh. Huh. I'm going to have to be careful of his liners when I clean."
hi Joe I just wanted to say thank you. I am just a normal girl who is just constantly thinking of what other people think of her. I have been watching you videos from the beginning and every time I hear your intro I truly feel like you care about me. Your videos have brought me so much joy and i just wanted to say thanks. You have helped me feel a little more self-confident when no one else could and when I really needed it. You liked one of my comments on a past video and I burst into tears of joy because it felt great to know that even if you don't remember it for a little while you knew I existed. Thank you for making me feel accepted and appreciated. I hope that you will continue to make videos and I'll still be here when you make your four years after amputation video.
You have been a tremendous support for some of us, as well. I found your channel about a year ago, in looking for someone who had done elective amputation. I totally screwed up my right ankle in a car accident 18 years ago, and it never healed right. When I started to think about amputation, I wanted to hear it all, the good, the bad, and the ugly, from someone who had been there. I'm a month away from my 3rd ankle surgery in 18 months. I told my surgeon that if this one didn't get me to a point where I felt like I could live with it long-term, the next one would be an amputation. Jo, thank you for being open and honest about your amputation journey. It helps my decision making more than you know.
I had my leg amputated by choice too. I was done having it “fixed” and decided to have my leg amputated too. I’ve had a lot of surgeries over my lifetime. I broke my back at 35 and had it fused when my twins were younger. Anyways sorry I’m rambling. I love watching your videos. 🙂
I haven't watched the video yet, but I just want to say thank you Jo before I do. Thank you for taking all of us on this journey of yours that started all those days ago. Your story is very relatable to me and it has helped make my own amputation journey somewhat easier to deal with, if that makes sense. Thank you Jo!!!
I joined your channel a few months after your amputation and I remember that it was like a wave of relief to know that someone else was also facing such a tough decision. It has been a JOURNEY, but I'm so happy to see you where you are today 💕
Hi Jo, My self Nirmal Singh Javanda and I had also take a call for my feet amputated below knee right leg in 2006 . I am doing all those work which I have not done before amputation. All the very best and keep 💪🏻.💐
Jo, I watch as many videos of yours as possible and have so much respect for you. You are a brave, strong young woman and although going through this us bad for anyone I'm so glad you had support. I had none. No love, help, comfort only my dogs and God. I was grateful for what I had but lacked support from my family. Emotionally I was devastated. One if sons was taken from me not to help but out of the pure meanness of my older son and younger son. The one I had was grown, but mentally handicapped and he is truly my heart. I had to quit working. I am a Registered Nurse. I did keep it together and I'm doing well now, but my heart remains broken and hurt for everything that happened. They couldn't even vocalize why they were so angry(my sons). They never have. But I was left to my own devices, falling several times and no one coming. My face was destroyed and I had a friend who's a plastic surgeon and he fixed me right up. Anyway, I've had other things wrong, too, that have affected my outcomes. You Jo, are one that helps immensely!!! Love you soooooo much! Take care!!! Nina Dowling- Harris RN,CRRN
I cannot speak for anyone else, but I choose to sponsor you and look forward to your vids as much has I do because you are worth it. All the experiences you have gone through, have perfectly placed you in the head/physical space to respond and advise those of us who are going through things both similar and dissimilar to where you have been. And you have accurately done so. I can say You have assisted me by allowing me to get out of my own head, because an alcoholic/addict alone in his or her own head is in THE most dangerous place he or she can be. And any opportunity to get out of there is to be appreciated and quickly taken advantage of. When you say, "I would like to hear from you guys about..." That's when it happens. That's when I jump and start typing. For all of those times when I didn't know I needed to come out of my head, and you got me out, I thank you. That helps me to get up the next day. That is only one of the reasons I stick around. There are more. Have a pleasant and safe day. See Ya!!!
For me, the choice was simple: amputate or die. I had osteomyletis spreading up from my foot and ankle and into my lower leg. The decision was simple & direct. Recovery and healing have been quick and largely painless. I just got the cast made to prepare for my temporary leg. I can't wait to walk again! Some wisea$$ asked me what my goal was. I told him: "To pee standing up again". I have an i-Walk on the way. My goal is in sight ...
Being 3 months post surgery (not an amputation but organ removal) this video makes me excited to look back on this after it has been a year or two (: Thanks for making this video! I’ve been subscribed for a while now and watching your journey has been really special. It’s weird to laugh and cry with someone you’ve never met before, but you’ve helped me through a lot nonetheless ❤️
So grateful you’ve made these videos the past two years! I don’t have amputee friends around me. It’s been nice to see I’m not the only one going through this amputee life. 🦿
I just wanted to drop a comment to say thank you for making these videos. I don't share your experiences, and I think this channel really works well for dismantling an able-bodied message that's so prevalent in our society. I feel like many people who aren't amputees would assume you were cringing at the footage of your ankle because you missed it--not because the memory of the pain and struggle almost makes you sick, and validates the decision you made.
Wow jo I love your rawness and honesty you really are fantastic, I hope you realise how many people you help without you even knowing it. Can’t wait to see you back running with your knee blade x
Oh my gosh! When I announced on my Facebook that I'm having an amputation, I got a message telling me I need to change my diet and my tumors would shrink. Umm...maybe so, but I'm in a lot of pain. I can't walk. I have to have help with household chores and taking care of my daughter. I eat pretty healthy, so I'm pretty sure my tumors (due to neurofibromatosis) won't shrink from changing my diet. It's going bye-bye!
Hey Jo, I can't believe it's been 2 years... Found your channel when I was recovering from my 6th ankle surgery back in 2018. I'm so glad you're doing so much better- happy ampuversary💜🤗
I have had serious knee issues since I was in grade 6 or 7. It's has been 13 years since that started and a few years ago I was strongly considering to have a double above the knee amputations because of the pain. My sister thought that I was out of my mind crazy. She is now dealing with serious knee pain and I asked her "now do you see why I don't want to have meat knees anymore?" I haven't gotten or even brought the idea of amputation up to doctors until I exhaust all options, but at the same time, I just want the pain I'm dealing with to be gone. And I understand that more and different pain comes with amputation, but it is so hard to deal with the pain I'm in right now. I've been watching your videos for a few weeks now and it is so interesting to hear and watch your story
Hi Jo, this was a fantastic video of yours for me to find 12 days before my own right leg below the knee amputation. I cannot stress enough how very helpful your videos have been in helping me find my way through this incredibly difficult and emotionally fraught time in my life.
I really relate to the "I want it to be my choice" thing. If everything goes according to plan I should have a wheelchair in the months to come, and obviously it is not comparable to an amputation as it's not definitive in anyway, but the feeling of "that thing might happen to me as my health deteriorates, and I can choose to make it happen before I'm force too" was important in my decision. And as you said, I feel like it is reasonable to do those kind of changes while you have the otherwise health and money and time to make them right, on you own term, and learn to live with it, before everything else falls so much appart you have no other choice left, but also that means you have less support and resources left aswell to go through it. Anyway, thank you for sharing all those thing with us, your channel is very interesting and uplifting !
I just got a wheelchair a couple of months ago and I totally know what you mean about taking control of change rather than waiting for it to be forced upon you. It’s a big shift in life even though it is technically not definitive. It can change the way you see yourself and others see you. But I really hope that it widens your world in the same way that it has widened mine.
Visiting with a friend and her little girl whos 3 years old and we put on this video and I was trying to explain it to the little girl that its been 731 days since you had your leg amputated and she listened to me and we watched the video 2 times. She didn't say anything at all the whole time while having her arms crossed. You could tell the gears were turning in her brain.. your video ended and she stood up and then said " I got it, It's gonna take 731 more days fore it to grow back! I'm gonna be watchin too!" lol It was just so cute because she thought she had it all figured out.. lol
Hello Jo, I am a very recent ,July 29th 2022, below the knee amputee. I want to thank you for your videos and sharing it had helped me to cope and have a positive attitude. thank you so much! keep sharing! thank you, John
Congratulations on your 2 year anniversary. You are such a strong and brave person. The way you share your experiences are so helpful to so many people. You are such a very special person. Thank you.
Hi Jo! I’ve been watching you for a while, and I’m so happy to see that you are recovering well, and finally walking (and hopefully running soon!) I’ve learned a lot about amputees (misconceptions I had, or just new information) from your channel! You really helped me discover the things amputees have to deal with not only during recovery, but also daily, and how everyone has a different story. It really changed my perspective on life and people in general. I didn’t know some people actually had to choose to have an amputation, and that some just really want to have it in order to have a better life because of complications. Who knew getting rid of a part of your body can actually make life easier? I know someone who had to go through an amputation a few years back, and I didn’t understand why. But now I get it. Sometimes it’s really just the best option for a better life, and that’s that. Anyway, thank you for sharing your journey with us, and I hope you are doing well and keeping safe. I wish you all the best for the rest of your journey 💕
So strange to see how far you have come it's great to.rewatch some clips with you! Your contents still awesome and oand enjoyed every video :) happy 2 year anniversary of your amputation and I'm so glad your starting to be able to prep to so things like running and your back hiking etc x
Can’t believe it’s been that long. Been here for your journey, and it’s brought me true joy to see where you are. I’ve been battling chronic pain, but the last 2 years has been much worse. Thank you so much for all the videos to help me get through it. I. I’ve also been inspired to evaluate where I am with my medications, and I don’t think I would have the confidence to make those decisions without you. Thank you for being who you are!
I have a complex break that’s not healing right, same ankle, I have some very similar scars...a year on and more hospital appointments coming. I don’t think I’m anywhere near this but your videos give me hope that whatever happens there is always something else to try and another path to walk. I have shared your story with friends and family and they don’t understand why someone would choose amputation but I’ve been in pain for over a year and I totally understand why you did it. Wherever my leg takes me I know I can watch and rewatch your videos and feel less despondent and more positive
I started watching your video's because TH-cam suggested your Grey's Anatomy react video. I'm a huge Grey's fan and was watching all the doctor reacts to Grey's videos. I've continued to watch your videos because of your amazing spirit!! I keep coming back for a little dose of optimism when I'm feeling down. Even your Trauma Talk videos (the ones I've seen) are a little ray of optimism. Your words make me feel like it's okay to not be okay all the time but there is light at the end of the tunnel you just have to wait it out. Thank you Jo for openly sharing your story with us.
Hi Jo, I recently found you. My husband had a bad motorcycle accident March 31st. He sustained severe trauma to both lower legs. For his right leg he was given several options, one was amputation, which is what he decided after weighing all the options, and talking to a friend with BKA. He is 62 and felt that would be the quickest road to recovery. So 9 days after his accident he had the surgery. He is now 6 weeks out. He is still having to stay off his left leg for 6 more weeks due to repair of compound fractures. I am finding your videos very helpful. Thanks so much.
It took six years and three surgeries before I made the choice to amputate. At that time I had 20 fractures in my foot. 19 days ago I did it. I feel better than I have in five years. Going home from rehab today.
As someone who has had severe chronic pain for the past 17 years, I can understand why amputation was your best option. Pain rules my life, some days I can function fairly well but I'm completely disabled/non-functional for days/ weeks at a time.
I can sort of relate, but it was my knee. I just had it replaced Sept 30 at the age if 43. I had broken it in grade 6, and kept injuring it, physio, repeat. Until when I was 33 I lost my range of motion, always had a stabbing pain when I stepped on it and many days had a deep ache. Was told I was too young for a replacement, but I could still do things (baseball, skate, golf etc). I am so glad to hear you making a decision for yourself, and not letting others. The doctors wanted to get me to 50, at least (because they don't last forever and they can only do it twice), but quality of life is so very important. Well, when I stopped being able to live my life, I got my old knee chopped out and replaced. I know different, yet similar story. You're inspiring 😊
I can’t believe it’s been two years since you’ve amputated your leg. I’ve been here from the very beginning and it’s incredible to see how far you’ve come! Your so strong and inspirational.
I am a knew subscriber and you just gave me something to think about. I have had bad foot pain all my life. At 51 I am a flat footed person who is extremely flat footed. I was born that way and it is debilating. What should have happened is I should have had special shoes as a child but they were never offered to my mother and this is something that would have been medical to reshape the foot. Now they cast babies feet. There is nothing they can do for an adult really, I have often said to myself I could live without these feet but then shamed myself for thinking that. You are so brave and I am so glad I stumbled on your channel. I am going to seriously look into my options and see what can be done.
Hi I just found your channel and I loved listening to your story and I would have supported you all the way. You are the only one that knew how you felt and needed. I will be tuning in to see how you are doing. Take care and stay safe. 🙂
Gosh, its crazy that it's been so long since this happened. I remember watching the very first few videos before the amputation (I was never one to really comment) and have enjoyed watching your progress every since.
I'm so happy for you - that you had the courage to do a really tough thing, that improved your quality of life! Good for you! The people who wanted you to hang on to that useless, very painful ankle - have no idea what it's like to live with serious, chronic pain - and it's not throwing shade on your husband - who I know must love you very much! People without chronic pain just can't IMAGINE getting rid of a limb - it isn't in their world. 💞
It is important that we remember these days in our lives. If we can say that we have made the right decisions then we can be proud of ourselves. At least you can say you made your decision with confidence and forethought. Now go forth with your new blade and run again. I hope it makes you happy.
You are an absolutely lovely person! I've been following your channel for the past year or so, and it has been really helpful in a lot of ways, so thanks for that."The more you love, the more you live." Keep up with the good work jo.
I might not comment very often but I watch every single video. I have watched so many of the videos that just hearing the intro and outro makes me so happy because I know it's Jo I'm watching. Love from Denmark ❤
This was posted just at the right time for me. I needed a good dose of your smiles and optimism. Now time to hit the journal and start writing as an outlet for my frustration over a medical report gone wonky. This may sound weird, but it gives me hope when I see that others have similar struggles in making medical decisions and having to advocate for themselves. Thanks 😊 I always look forward to your videos.
It confused me for a split second, right near the start when you called yourself Jordon (sorry if I spelt it wrong), my head voice said "No, she's Jo" haha. Great video! I can't even imagine the thought process that goes into a decision such as this one. I agree with you on the timing. I prefer to do things when I choose to over when I NEED to.
I got hit reaaaally hard with the "one day i woke up not knowing i wont be the same til the end of the day" I definitely can think of days like this that changed me in positive or negative ways and its just crazy to realise that. Will today be a day like that? There is no way to know.
I lurk, but have been here from the beginning. I adore you, and highly value your videos, both for their content, and their cheer and catharsis they bring. I'm so glad to have found your channel(s!)
Dear Jo, Thanks for the inspiration. That better not be read as a contrite expresion, though I guess it wouldn't be. I've some significant health issues and been stuck about what to do. A missing component I did not know was missing, as one doesn't, is the purpose for the course I can see but have felt unable to embark on. Listening to you it became clear. So again, thank you for the inspiration. Kindest regards, Drew
My mom had the same type of situation! In 2000, she had an accident that severed her right leg (below the knee) and they tried to ‘save it.’ After 17 years, she had it amputated, and she could do things that she couldn’t do for the past 17 years (like running/walking fast.) She only told me that she was amputating like a month before she had the surgery and I was just starting 5th grade. She doesn’t regret it one bit
You're not insane. No one can understand chronic pain unless they've lived it, and even then how your brain processes it, your life experiences, the people in your life, etc will still differ. This is something that was a possibility for me before a few tipping points happened (bad and good) and is still a possibility at some point in my life. Thanks for sharing your experiences. 💜Brandi
Congratulations on this two year anniversary. I’ve followed you because I was interested in how you were dealing with your ankle problems. Because I was going through kind of similar situation with my left shoulder. You really helped me because if you could get through it, maybe I could too. I have one weird question that I always wanted to ask, but always felt it inappropriate. Here is the question. Based on your weight now and then, what do you think your foot and lower leg weighs? Okay, there I embarrassingly asked. The second is a comment about your Husband. From what I’ve heard you say I have such admiration for him. It would have been so easy to given up. But he helped you through it all, with little attention he day in day out was there for you. I have a wife whom doesn’t get out or get around very much. So laundry or groceries, all the while doing the yard and other chores I keep going. I admire him for that. Thank you
about three weeks ago i got a below the knee amputation and the phantom pain has been really hard to handle but i hope it gets better and i’m exited to move again because i’ve been on crutches for about a half a year
Jo you know I have been here for the first surgery. You are an inspiration to me as will. That is why I support you on patreon. Love you very much. Mean it. 🥰😘🌹
Oh Kim this could be my story had my leg amputated below the knee in April. I had a traumatic fib- tib break theat came right out the side of my leg! After 10+ surgeries, suffering exquisite pain and to add insult to iinjury ,y body thought "how about we toss an Oysteomyletis infection your tib-fib traveling up toward the rest of my leg! Amputation was a no brainer and Im waiting cautiously optomistically for my prostetic🥰 thank for sharing your experience
Omg I’ve been subscribed for almost 2 years! I’ve also be served the sundae of being disabled, 13+ scoops of chronically ill with chronic pain on top (a shit sundae if you ask me) so I got the video where you wrote on your foot and ankle right before the surgery and I went back and watched everything you posted and have followed you since. I really hope one day I get to meet you and tell you some of my story and some of the ways you’ve helped me. Even just a video chat (with the state of the country being straight up 🗑🔥) would mean so much. I wish I could afford patreon but I try my best to sit through the ads at least lol
I just realized your name is Jordan (I hope I spelled that right) I thought it was Jocelyn or Joanna for some reason. I can't believe people made you feel like you were making the wrong choice, what do those people think now that you're doing so much better?
I remember binging your earliest videos (pre-amputation) and commenting once I had watched them all. 🥰 You replied! I wonder if I can find the video where I started following your journey... It's been so interesting watching your channel grow and following your life for quite a while now. Much love xo
Hello jo I’ve been looking at ur videos for a couple of weeks now because amputation might be my only choice and I wanted to let u know ur videos help so much because I’m so nervous and scared not of the surgery so much but the life change I have spina bifida so I can’t walk so I’ve had plenty of surgery’s but a couple of years ago I had a pressure sore on the back of my thigh and I thought it healed but it didn’t and I end up with constant pain and feeling like my hip was out of place a couple of weeks ago I found out I had a bone infection in my hip that went all the way to my pelvic bone and as of right now because the infection was so bad I don’t have a lot of bone left so a hip replacement is not an option but I do have people telling me it can’t be that bad just deal with the pain and I just don’t know how to feel sometimes sorry this is so long just needed to vent
![Walking into a hospital & leaving as an amputee: my amputation story [CC]](/img/n.gif)
People don’t even blink when someone has a defective gallbladder or uterus removed. If it’s something that is so far damaged or diseased that it ceases to function properly and causes constant pain…it’s scalpel time. I appreciate your bravery and honesty on your channel.
@snickerbuckle, I know, right? No one tells someone, “Wait and see if ‘it’, whatever ‘it’ may be gets better”.
I didn't have to make this decision for myself. my parents had to make it for me before I was 3 years old. They chose to have my leg amputated less than a week after my 3rd birthday.
Was it the right choice?
About 15 years ago I was participating in an amputee support forum. In my profile I had the detailed reason for my amputation on the unlikely event that someone else had the same problem,.I got an e-mail from an 11-year-old boy from Australia who had the exact problem I had, but his parents had made the choice to keep his leg.
By age 11 he had broken his leg 14 times, he had to wear a brace that prevented him from running. His leg hurt all the time and he could only watch his friends play but he could never do any sports himself because his leg was so fragile.
He wanted my help in talking his parents into having his leg amputated.I spoke to his parents, and I got my parents in touch with his parents, thinking they could help.
In the end they went ahead and amputated. 6 months later he tried out for and made the local kid's soccer team. The results were amazing. He was able to run and play for the first time. That was the last I heard from him, but I assume he's still doing fine.
Sometimes amputation isn't just the correct choice, it's the only choice. It doesn't really matter what other, ignorant people think. All that matters is what is right for you.
My parents spared me from 8 years of being unable to play, of the pain of breaking my leg twice a year, and of so much more hardship than I would have had.
I always knew my parents made the right choice. But having that interaction just confirmed it.
A drunk in a van made that choice for me.
@@steveb7310 What an asshole.
Not me crying 😭 I have similar story with being a rare human in a support group sharing my story in hopes that someone someday might find it helpful. You’re awesome and thank you for another representation of different mobility ≠ bad/wrong mobility
Eric Taylor what part of your leg was amputated? Was it all the way up at the hip?
@@thedoveyparkchop4162 bellow knee
I can't get over how different you seem in those pre-amputation videos. You're chipper on the outside, but so clearly weighed down, like that ankle was a mental ball and chain as well as a physical one. Being a severe chronic pain patient myself, I can really see how much pain you were in -- physical and psychological.
And then looking at you now, it's like you've had a thousand pound weight lifted from you. You clearly have so much more hope and such a clear vision of what your future could hold. In the old videos, it seems like your famously sunny demeanour is costing you energy, while now it just seems like a natural expression of the energy you already have.
I'm so, so profoundly, genuinely happy for you, Jo 💖 You deserve every ounce of good stuff that's now happening for you. Thank you so, so much for sharing everything you have and continue to share with us.
...and, Jo, you seem so much younger without that weight of constant pain, and the stress that accompanied it!!
I stumbled upon your channel because my husband fell off a 3 story roof and tumbled through a tree that saved his life but destroyed his right ankle. Every ligament except the achilles was ripped off the bone, and his fibula never grew back together. He's had multiple major surgeries on it (that had him completely non-weight bearing for over a year) and is at a place where they want to fuse it. (His scars look a lot like yours did and are very painful with trapped nerves.) His other leg joints and back are in pain from how his ankle affects the way he moves. He's had the surgeon that told him to just live with the pain and lack of mobility. I'm not sure if he'll decide to fuse his ankle and/or eventually amputate it, but I'm very grateful to have discovered your channel and love the way you articulate your thoughts and journey.
I hope the best for you both, stay strong ☺
I love the different between 2 years ago Jo and now Jo. You seem so much happier now that you don't have a part of your body that hurts all the time. It really makes me happy to see you so happy
I love how supportive you are, how you want to lift her spirits. We need more people like you. Sending love and hugs
As an OG viewer the only thing that kept me from seriously tearing up was the hilarious live commentary. Love you Jo. I'm glad to be back in the comments again
Hi Joe I had a right below knee operation about2 months before you my story was a little different for your but did have 5 major operations on my foot & ankle over a period of 5 1/2 years before my quality of life had hit rock bottom as I was not able to walk for any period of time before it became so painful & started getting problems they back & hip. That was when I finally made the decision for he amputation which in all took another six months but after the op the pain blocker also never worked but also made it worse. But to cut along story short I am moving around a lot better.Your videos helped me see that I was not the only one as an isolated case and seeing that helped me balance out a lot of things( abit more to go ).i can also relate to other peoples options but i stuck true to my mind and so far it is so much better. All in all I just want to thank you for all your life story’s and HOPE all keeps moving forward in a positive way.
Marc. XxX
Two years without your "meat foot" and your still smiling. Good on you!!!
What a courageous person you are! There have been so many challenges for you but you persevere. Very inspiring.
I just started working at a care center, and one of our residents is an amputee. I'm so glad your channel is here. You normalized his situation for me. I walked into his room the first time and didn't even flinch. I honestly thought "Oh. Huh. I'm going to have to be careful of his liners when I clean."
Wow. That ankle was a MESS. Congrats on your choice for a new start!! You're doing it!!
I cant believe it's been 2 years, ty for sharing your journey with us!
hi Joe I just wanted to say thank you. I am just a normal girl who is just constantly thinking of what other people think of her. I have been watching you videos from the beginning and every time I hear your intro I truly feel like you care about me. Your videos have brought me so much joy and i just wanted to say thanks. You have helped me feel a little more self-confident when no one else could and when I really needed it. You liked one of my comments on a past video and I burst into tears of joy because it felt great to know that even if you don't remember it for a little while you knew I existed. Thank you for making me feel accepted and appreciated. I hope that you will continue to make videos and I'll still be here when you make your four years after amputation video.
You have been a tremendous support for some of us, as well. I found your channel about a year ago, in looking for someone who had done elective amputation. I totally screwed up my right ankle in a car accident 18 years ago, and it never healed right. When I started to think about amputation, I wanted to hear it all, the good, the bad, and the ugly, from someone who had been there. I'm a month away from my 3rd ankle surgery in 18 months. I told my surgeon that if this one didn't get me to a point where I felt like I could live with it long-term, the next one would be an amputation. Jo, thank you for being open and honest about your amputation journey. It helps my decision making more than you know.
Hi Jo, best wishes from Germany
I had my leg amputated by choice too. I was done having it “fixed” and decided to have my leg amputated too. I’ve had a lot of surgeries over my lifetime. I broke my back at 35 and had it fused when my twins were younger. Anyways sorry I’m rambling. I love watching your videos. 🙂
SO EXCITED FOR THISSSSSS
Congratulations for getting this far, and all the blessings for you in your future
I haven't watched the video yet, but I just want to say thank you Jo before I do. Thank you for taking all of us on this journey of yours that started all those days ago. Your story is very relatable to me and it has helped make my own amputation journey somewhat easier to deal with, if that makes sense. Thank you Jo!!!
I joined your channel a few months after your amputation and I remember that it was like a wave of relief to know that someone else was also facing such a tough decision. It has been a JOURNEY, but I'm so happy to see you where you are today 💕
Can't believe it's been this long, Jo! Honored to have been following your journey from the early days.
Every time you say bellow knee amputee, I hear "baloney amputee." 😂
That's what I heard her say and I thought, yeah, her leg kinda looks like a bologna....and then it dawned on me she was saying Below Knee.....oops!
Hi Jo,
My self Nirmal Singh Javanda and I had also take a call for my feet amputated below knee right leg in 2006 . I am doing all those work which I have not done before amputation. All the very best and keep 💪🏻.💐
Jo, I watch as many videos of yours as possible and have so much respect for you. You are a brave, strong young woman and although going through this us bad for anyone I'm so glad you had support. I had none. No love, help, comfort only my dogs and God. I was grateful for what I had but lacked support from my family. Emotionally I was devastated. One if sons was taken from me not to help but out of the pure meanness of my older son and younger son. The one I had was grown, but mentally handicapped and he is truly my heart. I had to quit working. I am a Registered Nurse. I did keep it together and I'm doing well now, but my heart remains broken and hurt for everything that happened. They couldn't even vocalize why they were so angry(my sons). They never have. But I was left to my own devices, falling several times and no one coming. My face was destroyed and I had a friend who's a plastic surgeon and he fixed me right up.
Anyway, I've had other things wrong, too, that have affected my outcomes. You Jo, are one that helps immensely!!!
Love you soooooo much! Take care!!!
Nina Dowling- Harris RN,CRRN
I cannot speak for anyone else, but I choose to sponsor you and look forward to your vids as much has I do because you are worth it. All the experiences you have gone through, have perfectly placed you in the head/physical space to respond and advise those of us who are going through things both similar and dissimilar to where you have been. And you have accurately done so. I can say You have assisted me by allowing me to get out of my own head, because an alcoholic/addict alone in his or her own head is in THE most dangerous place he or she can be. And any opportunity to get out of there is to be appreciated and quickly taken advantage of. When you say, "I would like to hear from you guys about..." That's when it happens. That's when I jump and start typing. For all of those times when I didn't know I needed to come out of my head, and you got me out, I thank you. That helps me to get up the next day. That is only one of the reasons I stick around. There are more. Have a pleasant and safe day. See Ya!!!
For me, the choice was simple: amputate or die. I had osteomyletis spreading up from my foot and ankle and into my lower leg. The decision was simple & direct. Recovery and healing have been quick and largely painless. I just got the cast made to prepare for my temporary leg. I can't wait to walk again! Some wisea$$ asked me what my goal was. I told him: "To pee standing up again".
I have an i-Walk on the way. My goal is in sight ...
Being 3 months post surgery (not an amputation but organ removal) this video makes me excited to look back on this after it has been a year or two (:
Thanks for making this video!
I’ve been subscribed for a while now and watching your journey has been really special. It’s weird to laugh and cry with someone you’ve never met before, but you’ve helped me through a lot nonetheless ❤️
So grateful you’ve made these videos the past two years! I don’t have amputee friends around me. It’s been nice to see I’m not the only one going through this amputee life. 🦿
I just wanted to drop a comment to say thank you for making these videos. I don't share your experiences, and I think this channel really works well for dismantling an able-bodied message that's so prevalent in our society. I feel like many people who aren't amputees would assume you were cringing at the footage of your ankle because you missed it--not because the memory of the pain and struggle almost makes you sick, and validates the decision you made.
Wow jo I love your rawness and honesty you really are fantastic, I hope you realise how many people you help without you even knowing it. Can’t wait to see you back running with your knee blade x
Oh my gosh! When I announced on my Facebook that I'm having an amputation, I got a message telling me I need to change my diet and my tumors would shrink. Umm...maybe so, but I'm in a lot of pain. I can't walk. I have to have help with household chores and taking care of my daughter. I eat pretty healthy, so I'm pretty sure my tumors (due to neurofibromatosis) won't shrink from changing my diet. It's going bye-bye!
@@johnccena are you an NF amputee too?
@@johnccena aww! I'm sorry!
@@johnccena thank you!
Hey Jo, I can't believe it's been 2 years... Found your channel when I was recovering from my 6th ankle surgery back in 2018. I'm so glad you're doing so much better- happy ampuversary💜🤗
I have had serious knee issues since I was in grade 6 or 7. It's has been 13 years since that started and a few years ago I was strongly considering to have a double above the knee amputations because of the pain. My sister thought that I was out of my mind crazy. She is now dealing with serious knee pain and I asked her "now do you see why I don't want to have meat knees anymore?" I haven't gotten or even brought the idea of amputation up to doctors until I exhaust all options, but at the same time, I just want the pain I'm dealing with to be gone. And I understand that more and different pain comes with amputation, but it is so hard to deal with the pain I'm in right now. I've been watching your videos for a few weeks now and it is so interesting to hear and watch your story
Hi Jo, this was a fantastic video of yours for me to find 12 days before my own right leg below the knee amputation. I cannot stress enough how very helpful your videos have been in helping me find my way through this incredibly difficult and emotionally fraught time in my life.
You are a wonderful, kind person. ❤️🙏
I really relate to the "I want it to be my choice" thing. If everything goes according to plan I should have a wheelchair in the months to come, and obviously it is not comparable to an amputation as it's not definitive in anyway, but the feeling of "that thing might happen to me as my health deteriorates, and I can choose to make it happen before I'm force too" was important in my decision. And as you said, I feel like it is reasonable to do those kind of changes while you have the otherwise health and money and time to make them right, on you own term, and learn to live with it, before everything else falls so much appart you have no other choice left, but also that means you have less support and resources left aswell to go through it.
Anyway, thank you for sharing all those thing with us, your channel is very interesting and uplifting !
I just got a wheelchair a couple of months ago and I totally know what you mean about taking control of change rather than waiting for it to be forced upon you. It’s a big shift in life even though it is technically not definitive. It can change the way you see yourself and others see you. But I really hope that it widens your world in the same way that it has widened mine.
Thank you !
Visiting with a friend and her little girl whos 3 years old and we put on this video and I was trying to explain it to the little girl that its been 731 days since you had your leg amputated and she listened to me and we watched the video 2 times. She didn't say anything at all the whole time while having her arms crossed. You could tell the gears were turning in her brain.. your video ended and she stood up and then said " I got it, It's gonna take 731 more days fore it to grow back! I'm gonna be watchin too!" lol It was just so cute because she thought she had it all figured out.. lol
I've been following you a few months now. I think your story is so inspiring. Happy Ampuversary !! 🤩💖
Hello Jo,
I am a very recent ,July 29th 2022, below the knee amputee. I want to thank you for your videos and sharing it had helped me to cope and have a positive attitude. thank you so much! keep sharing!
thank you, John
Congratulations on your 2 year anniversary. You are such a strong and brave person. The way you share your experiences are so helpful to so many people. You are such a very special person. Thank you.
Hi Jo! I’ve been watching you for a while, and I’m so happy to see that you are recovering well, and finally walking (and hopefully running soon!)
I’ve learned a lot about amputees (misconceptions I had, or just new information) from your channel! You really helped me discover the things amputees have to deal with not only during recovery, but also daily, and how everyone has a different story. It really changed my perspective on life and people in general. I didn’t know some people actually had to choose to have an amputation, and that some just really want to have it in order to have a better life because of complications. Who knew getting rid of a part of your body can actually make life easier?
I know someone who had to go through an amputation a few years back, and I didn’t understand why. But now I get it. Sometimes it’s really just the best option for a better life, and that’s that.
Anyway, thank you for sharing your journey with us, and I hope you are doing well and keeping safe. I wish you all the best for the rest of your journey 💕
So strange to see how far you have come it's great to.rewatch some clips with you! Your contents still awesome and oand enjoyed every video :) happy 2 year anniversary of your amputation and I'm so glad your starting to be able to prep to so things like running and your back hiking etc x
You’re journey is so amazing. Thank you so much for sharing it with us. I know you’ve helped so many people!!
Can’t believe it’s been that long. Been here for your journey, and it’s brought me true joy to see where you are. I’ve been battling chronic pain, but the last 2 years has been much worse. Thank you so much for all the videos to help me get through it. I. I’ve also been inspired to evaluate where I am with my medications, and I don’t think I would have the confidence to make those decisions without you. Thank you for being who you are!
I have a complex break that’s not healing right, same ankle, I have some very similar scars...a year on and more hospital appointments coming. I don’t think I’m anywhere near this but your videos give me hope that whatever happens there is always something else to try and another path to walk. I have shared your story with friends and family and they don’t understand why someone would choose amputation but I’ve been in pain for over a year and I totally understand why you did it. Wherever my leg takes me I know I can watch and rewatch your videos and feel less despondent and more positive
I started watching your video's because TH-cam suggested your Grey's Anatomy react video. I'm a huge Grey's fan and was watching all the doctor reacts to Grey's videos. I've continued to watch your videos because of your amazing spirit!! I keep coming back for a little dose of optimism when I'm feeling down. Even your Trauma Talk videos (the ones I've seen) are a little ray of optimism. Your words make me feel like it's okay to not be okay all the time but there is light at the end of the tunnel you just have to wait it out. Thank you Jo for openly sharing your story with us.
Hi Jo, I recently found you. My husband had a bad motorcycle accident March 31st. He sustained severe trauma to both lower legs. For his right leg he was given several options, one was amputation, which is what he decided after weighing all the options, and talking to a friend with BKA. He is 62 and felt that would be the quickest road to recovery. So 9 days after his accident he had the surgery. He is now 6 weeks out. He is still having to stay off his left leg for 6 more weeks due to repair of compound fractures. I am finding your videos very helpful. Thanks so much.
I did a below knee amputation in last may you was very helpful for me
Hope to see you and your husband in Egypt you most welcome
Such good device Jo. If you have a friends who's going through something you haven't, listen more than you speak. That's a food for thought.
Hello Jo your videos have helped me with my right lower leg amputation a nurse told me about your TH-cam channel thanks for your time
It took six years and three surgeries before I made the choice to amputate. At that time I had 20 fractures in my foot. 19 days ago I did it. I feel better than I have in five years. Going home from rehab today.
As someone who has had severe chronic pain for the past 17 years, I can understand why amputation was your best option. Pain rules my life, some days I can function fairly well but I'm completely disabled/non-functional for days/ weeks at a time.
I can sort of relate, but it was my knee. I just had it replaced Sept 30 at the age if 43. I had broken it in grade 6, and kept injuring it, physio, repeat. Until when I was 33 I lost my range of motion, always had a stabbing pain when I stepped on it and many days had a deep ache. Was told I was too young for a replacement, but I could still do things (baseball, skate, golf etc). I am so glad to hear you making a decision for yourself, and not letting others. The doctors wanted to get me to 50, at least (because they don't last forever and they can only do it twice), but quality of life is so very important. Well, when I stopped being able to live my life, I got my old knee chopped out and replaced. I know different, yet similar story. You're inspiring 😊
I can’t believe it’s been two years since you’ve amputated your leg. I’ve been here from the very beginning and it’s incredible to see how far you’ve come! Your so strong and inspirational.
I am a knew subscriber and you just gave me something to think about. I have had bad foot pain all my life. At 51 I am a flat footed person who is extremely flat footed. I was born that way and it is debilating. What should have happened is I should have had special shoes as a child but they were never offered to my mother and this is something that would have been medical to reshape the foot. Now they cast babies feet. There is nothing they can do for an adult really, I have often said to myself I could live without these feet but then shamed myself for thinking that. You are so brave and I am so glad I stumbled on your channel. I am going to seriously look into my options and see what can be done.
Hi I just found your channel and I loved listening to your story and I would have supported you all the way. You are the only one that knew how you felt and needed. I will be tuning in to see how you are doing. Take care and stay safe. 🙂
Happy two year anniversary. Footless Jo is gonna be a cool name when this becomes a running channel.
Gosh, its crazy that it's been so long since this happened. I remember watching the very first few videos before the amputation (I was never one to really comment) and have enjoyed watching your progress every since.
I'm so happy for you - that you had the courage to do a really tough thing, that improved your quality of life! Good for you! The people who wanted you to hang on to that useless, very painful ankle - have no idea what it's like to live with serious, chronic pain - and it's not throwing shade on your husband - who I know must love you very much! People without chronic pain just can't IMAGINE getting rid of a limb - it isn't in their world. 💞
It is important that we remember these days in our lives. If we can say that we have made the right decisions then we can be proud of ourselves. At least you can say you made your decision with confidence and forethought. Now go forth with your new blade and run again. I hope it makes you happy.
You are an absolutely lovely person! I've been following your channel for the past year or so, and it has been really helpful in a lot of ways, so thanks for that."The more you love, the more you live." Keep up with the good work jo.
Hi Jo from a Canadian follower.
Love your videos I love how you always try to put a positive spin on things!!!
I watch you from your first video, i can't belive it was 2 years ago! I'm really glad that i found you and really happy that i stay ❤️
I've been following you for 6 months and watched a lot of old videos. I can also see how much happier and healthier you are.
I might not comment very often but I watch every single video. I have watched so many of the videos that just hearing the intro and outro makes me so happy because I know it's Jo I'm watching. Love from Denmark ❤
This was posted just at the right time for me. I needed a good dose of your smiles and optimism. Now time to hit the journal and start writing as an outlet for my frustration over a medical report gone wonky. This may sound weird, but it gives me hope when I see that others have similar struggles in making medical decisions and having to advocate for themselves. Thanks 😊 I always look forward to your videos.
We need merch that says "Bologna amputation" because I always hear it like that 😂
I heard “bologna” for the first time in this video even though I’ve watch this since it started 😂
I’d like a bilateral bologna amputee category please :)
I hear it as "Baloney amputation" which, after a quick google mid-post, is synonymous to "Bologna amputation".
I just realized its not bologna, but below knee.wow! Mind blown
One thing I have noticed - You look a lot happier now then 2 years ago :)
It confused me for a split second, right near the start when you called yourself Jordon (sorry if I spelt it wrong), my head voice said "No, she's Jo" haha. Great video! I can't even imagine the thought process that goes into a decision such as this one. I agree with you on the timing. I prefer to do things when I choose to over when I NEED to.
I got hit reaaaally hard with the "one day i woke up not knowing i wont be the same til the end of the day"
I definitely can think of days like this that changed me in positive or negative ways and its just crazy to realise that.
Will today be a day like that? There is no way to know.
I like how you used to say amputate and now you say “chop off”.
I lurk, but have been here from the beginning. I adore you, and highly value your videos, both for their content, and their cheer and catharsis they bring. I'm so glad to have found your channel(s!)
Dear Jo,
Thanks for the inspiration. That better not be read as a contrite expresion, though I guess it wouldn't be. I've some significant health issues and been stuck about what to do. A missing component I did not know was missing, as one doesn't, is the purpose for the course I can see but have felt unable to embark on. Listening to you it became clear. So again, thank you for the inspiration.
Kindest regards,
Drew
My mom had the same type of situation! In 2000, she had an accident that severed her right leg (below the knee) and they tried to ‘save it.’ After 17 years, she had it amputated, and she could do things that she couldn’t do for the past 17 years (like running/walking fast.) She only told me that she was amputating like a month before she had the surgery and I was just starting 5th grade. She doesn’t regret it one bit
You're not insane. No one can understand chronic pain unless they've lived it, and even then how your brain processes it, your life experiences, the people in your life, etc will still differ. This is something that was a possibility for me before a few tipping points happened (bad and good) and is still a possibility at some point in my life. Thanks for sharing your experiences. 💜Brandi
Hello it’s me my covid test is coming up on the 16th and the surgery is only a week and a half away and grate video as always
Good luck❤️ also it's great*🙂
I agree with you, Footless Jo. Best decision ever.
🙏🏾❤️🙏🏾❤️🙏🏾prayers and love to you, jo
Congratulations on this two year anniversary. I’ve followed you because I was interested in how you were dealing with your ankle problems. Because I was going through kind of similar situation with my left shoulder. You really helped me because if you could get through it, maybe I could too.
I have one weird question that I always wanted to ask, but always felt it inappropriate. Here is the question. Based on your weight now and then, what do you think your foot and lower leg weighs? Okay, there I embarrassingly asked.
The second is a comment about your Husband. From what I’ve heard you say I have such admiration for him. It would have been so easy to given up. But he helped you through it all, with little attention he day in day out was there for you. I have a wife whom doesn’t get out or get around very much. So laundry or groceries, all the while doing the yard and other chores I keep going. I admire him for that.
Thank you
about three weeks ago i got a below the knee amputation and the phantom pain has been really hard to handle but i hope it gets better and i’m exited to move again because i’ve been on crutches for about a half a year
I'm really glad I got to come along for the journey. I would have never known otherwise.
I've been here from the beginning as well. Had to believe it has been 2 years already!
When a lower-limb amputee says "cuz I'm lame like that" 🤣 I instinctively said, "Ba-dum-ch!" When you said that, Jo 😁💖
So cool to see the future brought you what you had hoped for! 😁
I feel like you have been a supportnto me as well, as in you taught me a lot. I really value that.
Jo you know I have been here for the first surgery. You are an inspiration to me as will. That is why I support you on patreon. Love you very much. Mean it. 🥰😘🌹
Such a beautiful and strong woman. Your story is truly an inspiration. Thank you for sharing!
Oh Kim this could be my story had my leg amputated below the knee in April. I had a traumatic fib- tib break theat came right out the side of my leg! After 10+ surgeries, suffering exquisite pain and to add insult to iinjury ,y body thought "how about we toss an Oysteomyletis infection your tib-fib traveling up toward the rest of my leg! Amputation was a no brainer and Im waiting cautiously optomistically for my prostetic🥰 thank for sharing your experience
Omg I’ve been subscribed for almost 2 years! I’ve also be served the sundae of being disabled, 13+ scoops of chronically ill with chronic pain on top (a shit sundae if you ask me) so I got the video where you wrote on your foot and ankle right before the surgery and I went back and watched everything you posted and have followed you since. I really hope one day I get to meet you and tell you some of my story and some of the ways you’ve helped me. Even just a video chat (with the state of the country being straight up 🗑🔥) would mean so much. I wish I could afford patreon but I try my best to sit through the ads at least lol
I just realized your name is Jordan (I hope I spelled that right) I thought it was Jocelyn or Joanna for some reason. I can't believe people made you feel like you were making the wrong choice, what do those people think now that you're doing so much better?
So happy for you Jo! Love you lot my beautiful internet friend! :)
I like your attitude towards all this
A brave woman. Best wishes from Brazil
Hope you feel better soon!
I remember binging your earliest videos (pre-amputation) and commenting once I had watched them all. 🥰 You replied! I wonder if I can find the video where I started following your journey... It's been so interesting watching your channel grow and following your life for quite a while now. Much love xo
Did you delete any of your earlier videos? I can't seem to find the comment. 😅
I for some reason wasn't subscribed to you?? I'm almost positive I subscribed. Congratulations on 2 years post op!
You are completely awesome..!!!
Love you jo stay strong and healthy ❤️❤️
Hello jo I’ve been looking at ur videos for a couple of weeks now because amputation might be my only choice and I wanted to let u know ur videos help so much because I’m so nervous and scared not of the surgery so much but the life change I have spina bifida so I can’t walk so I’ve had plenty of surgery’s but a couple of years ago I had a pressure sore on the back of my thigh and I thought it healed but it didn’t and I end up with constant pain and feeling like my hip was out of place a couple of weeks ago I found out I had a bone infection in my hip that went all the way to my pelvic bone and as of right now because the infection was so bad I don’t have a lot of bone left so a hip replacement is not an option but I do have people telling me it can’t be that bad just deal with the pain and I just don’t know how to feel sometimes sorry this is so long just needed to vent
Jo you are amazing! Hugs from Spain❤️🌸🥰