PATIENT SPOTLIGHT: Amy H., Below-Knee Amputation
For Amy H., some of life’s best moments happen outdoors — working in her garden, cutting the grass, and spending time outside with her grandchildren.
Born in Dyersburg, Tennessee, and raised in Dyer, Amy has deep roots in West Tennessee. She and her husband, Tim, have been married for 38 years and have one daughter, Shelby, a son-in-law, Andrew, and three grandchildren. Amy also spent 16 years working as a mail carrier in Milan, Tennessee.
In 2020, Amy was diagnosed with Charcot foot, a serious condition that can affect the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the foot. Her health complications eventually led to sepsis, and after more than two years of treatment, Amy underwent a below-knee amputation on April 20, 2023.
Following her surgery, Amy began rehabilitation at West Tennessee Healthcare Rehabilitation Hospital Cane Creek. It was there that she was introduced to Human Technology Prosthetics & Orthotics and began working with Jay Cranford, CPO/LPO.
Amy received her first prosthesis on July 6, 2023, and says the Human Technology team has been there for her throughout her journey.
“The entire team is wonderful and caring,” Amy said. “If something is not right, they get it corrected right away. I have recommended Human Technology several times, including to a man in our neighborhood.”
Recently, Amy was fit with her third socket and a new prosthetic foot that she says has made walking easier, especially when navigating changes in terrain.
“When you walk, it moves with you,” Amy said. “The new foot works very well, particularly if you’re going up or down an incline.”
That added mobility helps Amy continue doing the things she enjoys most.
“I enjoy being outdoors, cutting the grass and working in my garden,” she said. “I also love being outside with my grandchildren.”
Her new prosthesis has another feature Amy enjoys: plenty of personality.
“The new prosthesis is very colorful,” she said. “People stop me all the time and ask me about it.”
For Amy, prosthetic care for a below-knee amputation is about much more than a device. It is about staying active, enjoying family, and continuing to take part in the everyday moments that matter most.
At Human Technology Prosthetics & Orthotics, we’re proud to be part of Amy’s journey and to help her Live Active— in her garden, with her grandchildren, and wherever life takes her next.