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Post by bassett on Mar 18, 2017 16:22:04 GMT -7
So, I'm 3 days out of a BKA. No pain to speak of really. About to wrap it up and shower for the first time. My father in law already put some rails in my shower to help me get in and out without using crutches. Overall, everything has gone to plan and it's great. I'm so happy to be rid of my bad leg. It finally doesn't hurt anymore, after 30 months of pain every day.
I do have a question. I want to put a left foot gas pedal in my truck (amputated the right). Does anyone know of state (GA) or federal assistance that will cover this? Or insurance? Someone told me that they knew an amputee that got 1100 dollars with every vehicle to convert them to handicapped accessible. Any info would be appreciated. Thanks.
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Post by cherylm on Mar 20, 2017 4:23:02 GMT -7
I don't know much about left foot accelerators, although I do know of one person who uses one...if I'm remembering correctly, hers is some sort of "clamp-on" thing that can be installed by the owner and taken off if necessary. I had this conversation with her several years ago, so the gear might have improved/changed since then.
But is your truck relatively new? I know that, at one point in time, Chevy at least had a program to provide something like $1,000 in credit toward adapting their vehicles for folks with disabilities. If your truck isn't ancient, the manufacturer may be willing to do something like that. Can't hurt to ask!
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Post by bassett on Mar 20, 2017 10:04:54 GMT -7
No, it was an old GA Power fleet truck, so I bought it used at auction. I've looked into the systems, and they are not super expensive, but I got the number of a man that works for the state that should be able to help me out. I'm also going to see if they will cover the cost of installing hand rails in my garage entrance (3-4 steps), so that I don't have to crutch up them and likely fall over time.
But, honestly, driving left foot only has been a breeze these last 2 days. Not sure if I would wan to drive long distances, but if that were the case the cruise control would be the answer.
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Post by cherylm on Mar 23, 2017 3:59:40 GMT -7
basset, sometimes it's useful to just "wait and see" on purchasing aids...the one gal I know who has the left-foot accelerator truly loves hers, but she is literally the only person I know who uses one, and I know a good number of right-foot amps. You're right that cruise control would be a fine solution to long-distance driving!
Hand rails (and grab bars in or next to the bath tub) on the other hand, are DEFINITELY worth looking into! Even if you have great balance and tremendous strength, something to hold onto in case of emergency can save you a lot of grief!
If you ever think you might want some new bit of equipment or mobility aid, I'd suggest seeing if you can rent it for a few days first...you might decide it's the greatest thing since sliced bread and end up buying it, but if it doesn't live up to your expectations you're only out a few dollars. (Ask me about the walker tray my physical therapist INSISTED that I just HAD to buy in order to live...I think i used it twice.)
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