Margot's letter

Margot wrote:

I like your blog, and I like your musical taste. It's refreshing to see someone that appreciates not picking the same old crap from Nickelback or Avril Lavigne like radio seems to do today.

I am writing for a different reason though. I recently had my arm amputated due to complications from an injury I got in a car accident. Not only am I facing the challenge of learning how to do things differently, but I am also adjusting to my appearance. It is really depressing sometimes to see how people stare, and it's affecting my confidence. I am going out less, and when I do, I am wearing coats or things to hide my amputation. It's looks weird when it's 68 degrees and I am wearing a coat.

My doctor suggested that I go without the prosthetic until I get used to how things are, so I am willing to wait, but I can't help but to feel that I would be better off with the prosthetic. I would be more attractive at least.

What do I do?

Margot


Thanks for writing Margot. A life changing event like this can have profound effects on how you view yourself, not to mention how you feel others view you. People stare, and as rude as that may be, it's curiosity at it's most raw. And while a prosthetic may allow you to feel better about how people view you, it's putting a fresh coat of paint on a dent. The dent is still there. Your doctor is right. You need to become okay with how things are, you need to get rid of that dent, before you move on.

We all have our insecurities and things we wish we could change about ourselves. Sometimes, if we're lucky, we can change those things. In reality, we often don't need to make those changes. A prosthetic doesn't change who you are. It only changes who you think you are. Personally, I'd take the real you over someone that would be insecure without her prosthetic. I am sure most people would agree with me.

The next time someone stares, explain to them what happened. Share your experience and open yourself up to making new connections. You'll be better off as a result.

Sean