Truly thankful for the Minneapolis VA Amputation Clinic
"I am thankful for all of the staff that work with Veterans like me.”
In December of 2017, 56-year-old Navy Veteran, Steven Fedor stepped inside his home for a quick break from hanging Christmas lights when suddenly, there was darkness.
Fedor awoke 11 days later in a hospital, “When I woke up my world had changed. My wife told me she’d kept me alive through CPR while my stepson called 9-1-1. When the paramedics arrived, they were able to utilize a defibrillator to “zap” me back to life,” said Fedor.
Upon regaining consciousness, Fedor faced a series of medical challenges beginning with a blood clot in his leg. It severely complicated his recovery and led to a below the knee amputation. Due to an infection after the first surgery, he had to have another amputation above the knee a few days later.
Fedor received his first prosthesis in 2018. He started his rehabilitation at an outside hospital and worked with a community prosthetist.
In 2019, he transferred his care to the Minneapolis VA Medical Center and began to work with the Amputation Clinic and a prosthetist for his amputation care. Fedor said that receiving his care at the VA has significantly benefitted his recovery. “This team truly cares, and they are readily available to provide assistance, guidance and support whenever I need it,” he said when talking about the genuine concern he feels from his Amputation Care team.
The proof is in the unique care he has received. “I had doubts initially in my ability to drive again and I needed to rely on Metro Mobility to make it to medical appointments until I felt comfortable,” he said. “The VA team taught me how to drive again! This is a skill that has significantly improved my independence.”
Fedor has participated in the VA’s Amputation Support Group where he got to share his experiences and hear other’s experiences all while connecting with fellow Veterans.
In the beginning, he said many of his daily tasks seemed impossible and challenging. However, having his prosthesis and working with his rehab team has been life-changing and enabled him to regain a sense of normalcy.
“The prosthesis has improved my mobility,” he said. “My PT, Steve, that I worked with is “a wizard.” He was able to notice minor things and gave me tips, so that I can walk again, take my dog for walks and work in my workshop. I was even able to repair my furnace recently!"
Driven by the support he received during his journey, Fedor decided to become a Certified Peer Visitor for the amputation team. This allows him to offer support, guidance and encouragement to other Veterans that are navigating similar challenges as they begin their journey as an amputee. “While my journey has presented its shares of obstacles, I am determined to help others thrive and live fulfilling lives like I have been able to,” said Fedor.