Empowering the Limb Loss Community: Insights from the Limbless Association Lunch & Learn Event

Limbless Association: Lunch & Learn, Brentwood.
No Amputee Need Cope Alone

I recently had the pleasure of attending a Limbless Association: Lunch & Learn at King George’s, Brentwood, Essex.

The event on Tuesday 8th October had been organised by the fantastic Tracey Ralph, the Network Development Officer (NDO) for the South and South East of the Limbless Association.

The format of the session was a (very) welcome coffee/ tea followed by a facilitated discussion:

The LA is actively invited to represent the limb loss community and support a range of ground-breaking research projects nationally.

The charity is currently supporting the application stage of what will be a significant project to improve the rehabilitation pathway for older amputees in Essex.

At the Brentwood Lunch and Learn, participants were asked about their experiences in the early stages of limb loss, their challenges and needs. The data collected will further evidence the need for the more holistic support mechanisms to ensure that amputees access all that’s available to them.

Those attending all had a story to share and did so willingly.

What is particularly clear is that knowing what to expect is key to the rehabilitation journey.

There was an audible gasp of agreement when Tracy explained that the LA has commenced a “Training to be an Amputee” programme with all in agreement that such a course would be invaluable to those to be amputees.

More support from those who have “lived” the experience and as such the Volunteer Visitor is essential.

After lunch, David Rose, Chair of Trustees, delivered a speech with respect the importance of a balanced diet.

Type 2 diabetes increases the risk of amputations. He explained with great passion the importance of staying healthy and maintaining a good balanced diet.

He referred to social prescribing that is available on the NHS.

The rationale is to enable people to connect with services/activities and groups to help them meet the practical/ social and emotional needs that are affecting their health and well-being.

Each NHS area should have their own wellbeing services.

David talked about food optimisation which promotes a reduction in fat (especially saturated fat) which aims to avoid processed and ultra-processed foods.

This is not “dieting” but critically reviewing what you eat and drink and does not require a drastic lifestyle change but a re-evaluation.

As always it was a privilege to attend and be in the presence of such positive forward-thinking individuals who are willing to share the stories of their journey.

There is strength in togetherness and shared experience. The more amputees talk of their experiences the more the LA can push for change in the services that are provided to them and the way services are provided.

As one attendee said at the Lunch & Learn the LA must never change their “No Amputee Need Cope Alone” as that is definitely what they need and that is what the LA is striving for.

In support of the Limbless Society Association Hodge Jones and Allen is hosting a quiz night on 9 October 2024.