WellSpan Surgery & Rehabilitation Hospital offers adaptive recreation opportunities and an amputee support group for individuals living with limb loss.
Bob Aims became involved with the programs following a below-the-knee amputation three years ago. Aims had experienced circulation issues and a non-healing wound on his left foot before deciding to undergo the procedure.
His surgery was performed at WellSpan York Hospital. He then spent two weeks at WellSpan Surgery & Rehabilitation Hospital for rehabilitation and mobility training.
Aims now uses a prosthesis and walks with a cane. As he approaches his 75th birthday, he remains active in his community.
For several years, Aims has participated in the Limb-It-Less Amputee Support Group at WellSpan Surgery & Rehabilitation Hospital. He also serves as a peer visitor through the Amputee Coalition, meeting with patients beginning their recovery, and volunteers in educational programs about life with a prosthesis.
Aims recently participated in an adaptive archery clinic organized through WellSpan’s rehabilitation team. He has experience with archery dating back to childhood and brought his own bow to the event.
The clinic was held with local archery experts and included participants with different physical abilities and levels of archery experience.
WellSpan recreational therapist Rachel Kerr said adaptive recreation allows people to apply skills developed during therapy in activities outside the hospital while supporting physical function, emotional well-being and confidence.
The adaptive archery clinic is one of several adaptive recreation opportunities offered through WellSpan. An adaptive golf event is scheduled for September.
The Limb-It-Less Amputee Support Group is also available in person and virtually on the first Thursday of each month from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
WellSpan Surgery & Rehabilitation Hospital is a Magnet-designated hospital recognized for nursing excellence and patient care.
Photo credits to WellSpan Health
