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care, given mixtures of medications that caused severe reactions, and at other times the treatment was inappropriate which caused further complications including my amputation.
The one thing I would do differently would be to educate myself so I could speak up and thereby advocate for myself and my care. Once I learned this lesson and took control of my care, my conditions mentally and physically began to improve. Unfortunately, I learned this lesson a little too late and most of the damage had already been done.
Life is a challenging adventure so; when I was injured my world greyed — however, it did not end. It took time to realize life was the same; just a little more challenging. Once I embraced my physical changes it became easier to adapt. The ability to adapt opened up a whole new world for me. I have gotten to do so much more than I would have if I was never hurt. It is all what you make of it.
I have always been an active person but after my injuries I thought I would never compete again. Fortunately for me I was introduced to adaptive sports. I have done many adaptive sports over the years including Para-Nordic and Biathlon, Cycling, Swimming, Whitewater Kayaking and Precision Air Rifle to name a few. In the beginning it was difficult for me to go out by myself so getting involved wasn’t high on my priority list. However, after I got Kahara she provided the security and support I needed to allow me to get involved again. Nowadays, if she’s not allowed to go I don't go. Both my Service Dog and Adaptive Sports saved my life.
At one point in time I remember thinking life wasn’t worth living because it had changed so much from what I knew. Kahara was there to support me and help me get through the bad times. She helps me find the motivation to get out and live life again. I remember when I would first go
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