Thanks for you video, I have a 15 years old girl (right leg amputee)wanting to know what to expect once she became ready to take the responsibility of a car. This video helped our family to understand that there is not reason for be afraid to drive and realize that she can became an skilled driver in the future. Thanks again.
i’m a below the knee right side amputee! i use my right prosthetic leg to push on the gas and my left leg to push on the breaks no need for all of this :)
I wear a prosthetic leg and when I started learning to drive I got a left foot accelerator so basically the accelerator is on the left and the brake stays in the middle it’s brilliant and I don’t have to scoot my leg anywhere! Maybe think about that?
I installed a left foot accelerator pedal before my wife had her amputation. She was confident before she had her amputation. She has both pedals so either of us can driver her car with no changes. I have to tell the oil change and tire shop about the extra pedal. I did the same to my pick-up in case she ever needs to drive it. Both were made using Chevrolet factory pedals so they look factory. My state would prefer I have a guard for the pedal that is not in use but we have been driving this way for 2 years and it is great. A man in LA makes a portable left foot pedal device that can be used for travel and rental cars. An above the knee amputee acquaintance has a module that connects to his floor quickly. He just quickly removes it when others need to drive.
My husband uses one too. He can drive without it (and doesn't have any restrictions on his licence) but the left foot accelerator just makes it more comfortable. The quick release means we can both use the same car easily (we were a 1 car family for years), works well for road trips too. It's similar to this one: askjan.org/products/The-3545-Left-Foot-Accelerator-by-MPD.cfm
Hi Jo, I lost my leg at 19 (Im 50 now) and I have never bothered to check out how other people experince beeing without a lower (right) leg. I do hower find that I have never found any real big issues with it other than I cant run. I have a similar leg to yours and driving comes quite natural with the metal leg. I do find it more easy to maneouvre the gas pedal and have no issues shifting to the breakpedal. I drive a motorcycle, and it works just fine. Skiing was an issue at first until I found the right ski boots enabling me to get it off. Before that I had to use a plastic bag to make the foot slide easier. Just wrap a towel around the metal pipe and the ski boot will fit just fine. There are a lot of benefits having only one leg. Ealking in hot sand, well rest for a while on the metal leg. You dont have to cut nails on that foot. You dont have to wash it. I use my leg for everything, also swimming. They had to change some screws to SS since the others corroded, but other than that no problems. Well I gurss I just wanted to comment should it be of some positive use for someone. Phantom pains can be a real pain. Luckily I have it only when I have a cold with fever for some reason. Nice to look at your very positive nature in your videos. BR from Sweden.
I'm a right leg above the knee amputee your videos have helped me through the 10 months that I've been going through this journey. I have a left foot adapter that I bought on Amazon and I had my mechanic install. It works perfect and I highly recommend it. Please keep the videos coming and all your positivity!
8:06 omg this reminded me of a reaction my mom caused. She's also had a leg amputated below the knee. We were at a concert, and her prosthetic was getting uncomfortable so she popped it out. The guy sitting next to me just happened to be looking in her direction and the look on his face was priceless lmao. After about 30 seconds he recovered enough to say "I can honestly say I have never seen that before." 🤣🤣🤣
There’s several brands of convertible hiking pants that have zip-off or roll-up legs. They’re a little more expensive than a good pair of jeans, but cheaper than regular pants + tailor.
For tailoring, I think there could be more alternatives than a zip to the hip. You might be able to do a horizontal cut and put in snaps, zips, or buttons and then unfasten and take off the leg, as well as the bottom portion of the pants. You could also look into pants where each leg is kind of like a wrap skirt with a deep slip that is covered by fabric. I have a pair and they are very fun and flowy. There are some cool pants out there! Edit: searching wrap leg pants gave some results of what I mean!
I'm a right BTK amputee. I drive left footed, it works better for me than using the prosthetic. It took getting used to but works fine now. I do use cruise control a lot to make it easier. Northern Minnesota winters. I wear cuffless sweat pants a lot. These stretch enough to be rolled up almost as high as a pair of shorts and I can put my leg on and off with them staying on. It works for me. Your results may vary.
Not sure if you've been asked/answered this question before, but when you initially got your amputation how did your pets react? Did have they behave towards you change significantly or did they pay much attention at all? Not sure if this has already been covered in another video, if so does anyone know which one? I just have an interest in animal behaviour and how they work in relation to humans. And no, this has nothing to do with the video! Just thought of the question as your dogs were getting in the car with you and the thought just randomly popped into my head!
I was in the hospital for 3 months after my amputation my cat Zeus was staying with my folks did act a little strange to me at first I think because he just hadn't seen me in so long he's okay with me now
Have you considered getting a flip pedal installed? I drive left footed because I have a pain condition that means I can not drive "normally". If you have a flip pedal your partner can still drive the car right footed with acceleration being on the right...if you then take over driving you just flip down a pedal on the left and down pops the left sided acceleration pedal (the right one raises up out of the way of prosthetic leg or limb that doesn't work properly). If you did get one installed you would have more comfort and freedom. Not sure about your part of the world but my car adaptions are funded by motability. I just pay motability for the rental of my car (which needs to fit a big hefty electric wheelchair and I get a new car every few years) using my PIP allowance. You may want to check out available schemes and/or grants available where you live xx
@@nathandeunk3533 Adaption specialists in your part of the world would be the best place to start to see the price of specific adaptions.....then costs would probably be covered by insurances/benevolent funds/charities/grants depending on your specific circumstances and income xx
As a right hip disarticulation amputee, thank you for showing this! So many people are blown away that I was driving one month after losing my entire right leg. I had to try it to see if I could do it. I was tired of feeling trapped by my body. I lost my leg due to bone cancer. For 4 months I lived with my right leg in a brace that I could not remove. There was no way to drive during that time. I missed having the freedom of being able to just do something simple like drive and take myself somewhere. Like you, some days I can't get out of the car, but at least I can take myself somewhere besides my couch. Driving is the only time that I feel like the old me. There are some clothing manufacturers who make adaptive clothing for all kinds of mobility issues. For those one-legged amputees who just need one shoe, you can buy them that way now, too. Zappos provides both! For clothing www.zappos.com/adaptive-clothing and for the single shoe www.zappos.com/e/adaptive/singleshoes I'm so thankful that my mom is able to sew and can modify my clothing for me. Check with the amputee groups near you. There is a lady in mine who can also modify pants. Worth checking into! Thanks for sharing so that others can see how amputee life can be!
1:49 Thank you for the video. I recently lost my right leg 1 inch below the knee you make me feel a lot better knowing that there's hope. To actually see someone driving. God bless you and thank you again. ❤
I had my right leg amputated last February and I love to watch your videos. You have helped me so much showing others how you are able to do certain things that I and others still find difficult for us to do. I look forward to watching more of you. Thank you for the help. 😊
Hi. I am sending you a huge thank you and a hug. I've been an amputee for a month. I've been doing pretty good at keeping my chin up and going forward..., until today. I'm a total mess today. I spoke with my brother this morning and he did his best to be there for me. I decided to get out and stay away from my bed so I could stop crying. I spoke with a couple of neighbors and what I thought was going to be a short visit turned into a lovely day and evening. I'm writing to you now in the beginning of the wee hours. I noticed that my brother sent me your video. Well, I completely loved your message. Listening to your positivity was like a gift I didn't expect. I've got to come up with a gift for my brother for thinking about me. Once again, thank you very much. C.
Yes! Seat warmers are life savers. I use it on my period, when my hip muscles go numb, when my back hurts, or when I get leg cramps. If anyone is curious, I was paralyzed and am currently on a cane (still learning how to walk independently, but can move my ankle just fine)
7:18 flash forward two years from this extremely valid complaint, and you actually found accessible pants with zippers built in up the legs! No tailor or anything! Seriously, what a huge find. I hope you have lots of your new pants, to be much comfier in Colorado winters. It’s no good being cold OR uncomfy! Much love from a non-amputee but very pro-accessibility Minnesotan!
Thanks Jo, that answered my questions very well. At 6’2”, I’m too physically big for driving the way you do. I’m going to have to look into the left foot adapter idea once my leg is healed enough. I’m also a right leg below the knee amputee, as of the 23rd of October
I have been a below knee amputee for three months now. I also have cancer, osteosarcoma, which is why I lost my leg in the first place. Going through chemo while simultaneously losing my limb has been a real experience. I thank you for your videos. Please know, even years after you made a video you continue being helpful to newer amputees. I thank you and appreciate 12:34 you.
Hey Jo! I've written a few times. This video could not have come at a better time! Just a review, I am a RAKA. I lost my leg due to arteriosclerosis (Atherosclerosis happens when the endothelium (a thin membrane that lines the inside of the heart and blood vessels) becomes damaged, due to factors such as smoking...) and smoking 2-3 packs a day (until January 14, 2018). I already had issues and almost lost my left leg in January 2014. I stopped smoking in January 2018 when the same issues came up as in 2014, and almost lost my right leg in January 2018. I quit too late. On May 22, 2018, my body rejected the artificial artery used to save my right leg and went from 70% occluded (blocked) to 100% occluded in about an hour. I was put under in the ER and woke up 2 days later sans my right leg. I am about to get my 3rd socket and using a test socket at the moment. The suction type just failed on me. The liner caused pain, and skin to socket-well-it would just fall off half the time. So I am back to a socket with straps. Anyway, my wife took me out to an empty parking lot with her car (an Equinox), and just like you, used my left leg (and without my leg on). I did really well. Only a couple of quick starts because of not realizing the pressure on the pedal. But I parked a couple of times perfectly. However, my wife was a wreck. Overly nervous. Two weekends ago, I drove to our storage facility to get some things taken out (we're moving soon from AZ to KS). First time on city streets. I did fine. In fact, did the "guy thing" of driving with my left hand hanging on top of the steering wheel. Which 1) made my wife very nervous, but 2) made me feel "normal" again. The only suggestion I would make is I used to have a Ford Expedition that allowed the gas pedal to adjust back and forward. I did become uncomfortable crossing over after a while and the gas pedal in the Equinox is pretty deep. I'm sending this to my wife just to have her see, it's OK. AZ does not require testing - except if a driver uses hand controls.
What got me... several months back we had some annual spring flooding. The news announced that some kids had located a prosthetic leg. Law enforcement was searching for "the rest of the owner" to ensure that person is alive and well and to return said leg. Later that week the news was happy to say the owner and leg was reunited! Turns out it was his older leg and was just kept for a backup and was lost when he went for shelter.
Omg Adidas track pants!!!! They have the tare away buttons on the the sides of them!! I dunno how into adidas and or track pants you are but might be a good option for cold days ❤️❤️
Let me start by saying THANK YOU!!! I'm not one to leave any comments on CZcams videos but I had to take the time to comment on yours. The reason for my comment is that I've been drowning in a cup of water ever since my motorcycle accident (possible some ptsd). I broke my right ankle and had surgery on it, seeing my injury after the surgery broke me down and I've been struggling to gain some confidence on healing and getting back to whom I was. Seeing how excited and confident you were doing that video blew my mind, here I am feeling sorry for myself about a broken ankle and yet you have gone through so much and even lost a part of yourself and still be full of so much life. So again thank you for inspiring so much confidence.
I became a rbk amp in March 2019, and prior to that (like you) I had spent 5 years in either a cast or a boot. I drove a big Ford Expedition with plenty of foot room, so I got used to driving with a cast or boot on. I have no problem driving with my prosthetic as a result. In June of this year, I lost my left foot and became a bilateral amp so having a left prosthetic really doesn't affect my driving at all. A year ago, I traded in my Expedition for something a bit smaller, but still an SUV because it is easier for me to get in and out of than a car. I haven't been in my wife's Hyundai for over a year because it's difficult for me because it sits so low. Thankfully, the new vehicle is still very convenient for me with two prosthetics.
Great great video. I do so miss my Lab. She passed a long time ago, so it was a real treat sharing time with your babies. Thank you. I am down to under 2 weeks now to the actual day of removal. It should be interesting for this old fart .
I am also an old fart LOL, lost my right leg above knee last year. I now drive a handicap van with a ramp, transfer seat on drivers side, and a left sided gas pedal. Never a problem driving this way. All about attitude and you will do fine, just make sure to listen closely to them in rehab. Exercise is very important for both legs and hips.
Cool. I wondered how. I haven't drove since my surgery back in July/18. A lot of it is because I can't afford to. With insurance rates, gas, up keep of vehicle, and not sure how I would do it so I let my license just expire. Besides I'm 57 and I've driven my whole life up till then. I'm comfortable letting all you young drivers drive me around. I'm seeing things in my city ( Edmonton Alberta ) I never saw before.. haha Very informative video ! Thanks Jo :)
Your video helped me immensely. I'm a right AK amputee, and I haven't gotten my prosthetic yet but I learned to drive after watching your video. I plan on removing my prosthetic to drive because like you I believe it would get in the way.......thanks Jo.
This video link was sent to me, thank you for making it! I'm looking at losing my right ankle as well, and after watching this and your other videos I realize that with work I can do this. Thank you for practically positive!!
I am a above knee right leg amputee, I have a left sided gas pedal. I had no problem at all adapting to using my left foot. There is no laws that say I cannot use my left foot. I like your videos because there are so many ideas you have given for problems I also have to deal with. Life goes on, I am about ready now to start riding my mountain bike again. There isn't much a amputee cannot do knowing the how to do it.
My aunt is an AK amputee on her left leg; thankfully she didn't have any issues learning to drive (an automatic car). However, when she learned to drive the dimmer switch for headlights was in the floorboard and needed to be pushed with a foot. My granddad got very fretted with her when he was teaching her to drive because she'd slow down every time a car approached before she'd turn off her high beams and then again when they passed and she needed to turn them back on. "You don't need to slow down to work the headlights! Thats why it has a separate switch!!" He told her. She responded "well dad, I've only got one leg to use over here. How do you think I can hit the pedal and the switch at the same time?" He didn't say anything after that, and bought her a car with a dimmer switch in the dashboard when he was able. Lol.
My dad is a left below the knee amputee but he has a right ankle fusion. So he drives with hand controls. When he was all healed and ready he was taught my a professional how to drive with hand controls and retook his test and now has that restriction on his license. If we have had a very long active day and then has to drive home he will take his leg and shoe off and drive home. It is super helpful. We are so glad that he has the freedom to drive without needing his feet or shoes. Sometimes if we need to take my moms car or my car, I will drive so he doesnt have to uncomfortable driving. If we have a valee or get the car serviced we simply alert them that he hand controls and to wait a few seconds between starting it and driving so that the pedals are on and not the hand controls
Even as a fully able bodied person, I occasionally drive with my left foot. Thanks for expanding! I just don’t really understand why people ask though; since that is a thing.
I'm wondering how your pups reacted when you came home from the hospital after your amputation. Did they notice a difference? Were they just happy you were more likely to be in one spot?
If you watch her older videos from after both her surgeries, the pups stayed with Jo's parents so that they didn't jump on her (on the couch) and hurt her leg for the first few weeks or so. She had footage (or full videos) of when Jo and Brian would go to her parents to visit the puppies. :)
I have a friend who has her right leg amputated below the knee and she has drop foot on the right so she got hand controls on her car. It works great for her but it did cost $4000.
There used to be jeans that either zippered off and turned into shorts or there also were break away pants that literally buttoned up both sides. They were a fad at one point. You could probably find some vintage pairs on eBay! Edit: they still make them! One in cargo! Zip offs, turn into shorts, breakaway pants button down both sides!
Curious if hand gears would help anyone reading in the comments. I am not an amputee but I have CRPS/ RSD and am unable to drive with my feet . Anyways I have a handicapped accessible van and took a driver's course to learn how to use hand gears for gas and brake . Once I got out of my own head anxiety and all it is actually very easy. There are different options of gears as we all learn differently and so you have different choices of location and type of gears . I'm thankful for the independence and ability to drive. Jo you are awesome. We share many things in common. Health wise and injuries were very similar in how it all happened. Anyways thanks for being a blessing to me and many others.
Even with two feet, I’m terrified to drive! (I do however have chronic pain in both legs, sensory overload, and go cross-eyed when stressed) Love you, Jo! I love your videos and you make me feel less alone ❤️
Your videos have been so helpful as I live in a rural area of West Virginia and don’t know many amputees to ask questions. There are no support groups in my area so your videos have been so beneficial.
Just found this video. I already had an prosthetic when I learned to drive. It's no big thing when you are used to. I don't hold the leg up all the time. Since the foot can be "bend" a little, I drive almost as everyone else but I need a little more strength in my knee to bend it
Thanks Jo, I enjoyed the video. I am am also a RBKA amputee . My 5 year anniversary is on Jan. 2nd. In California, I needed to retake drivers test but with Covid guidelines, haven't been able to-do so to learn the hand controller I got. You are so right when you speak about the days or weeks when wearing prosthetic is nearly impossible. Keep being positive!!
I had a cyst removed on my right foot, and I had to drive, so I taught myself how to drive with my left foot while I was recovering. It was surprisingly easy once I got the hang of it. I wouldn't have tried it if I hadn't seen a previous video of yours, so thanks for sharing.
Although we drive on the correct (left) side of the road in my country, we also have the clutch on the left, and the other two pedals on the right. So we also use our left foot only for the clutch, which is not a problem if you're driving an automatic. It should CLEARLY be stated that you are driving an automatic vehicle and don't need both your feet.
That’s a great perspective, looking at things that you can do and don’t feel held back in. I’m not an amputee so I can’t think about it in that lens for myself, but I can think about it in terms of depression and anxiety. You’re description of being trapped in your body really hit home for me, so maybe your mindset of focusing on what I’m not held back by could help me too :) Thanks for sharing
Two things about the zipper on the sides of your Jean's 1. Allot of the dry cleaners do alterations...so if you have to drop something off at the dry cleaners, just take a pair of jeans (or whatever) at the same time 2 I never had a zipper put in at a tailor before but it shouldn't be that much. I have never been charged more than 15 for any one alteration I have had allot of work on something, which cost more...but the single charges are not a big deal...as long as you don't ask them to take it in, shorten the legs, give you real pockets, etc...it should be pretty cheap
I live in Sweden and until sometime around 2010 I think it was the law said it was forbidden to drive in clogs, which always was a problem for Danish lorrydrivers coming over, they had to drive in their socks only here as you had to be able to "feel" the pedals.
I also learned how to drive with my left foot I was born with a disability and the right side of my body is the affected side, so whenever I was learning how to drive I learned with my left foot and that’s just how it’s always been and that’s just how it always will be because I will never have enough control over the mobility on the right side of my body!
Have you ever looked into a left foot accelerator? I'm also a right below knee amp and drive using this its great I have a flip over version which means it can be moved over when my husband is using my car. It's much easier as well sitting with my prosthetic as there is no peddle in the way!
I am a new rbka amputee and still waiting on my prosthetic. I currently drive with my left foot with no change on the accelerator. I have been told ( by the dealer) that putting a left accelerator will void the warranty of the car. Thoughts?
@@christhoms7102 contact the manufacturer for advise but it's not voided my warranty where in the world are you as there is bound to be some sort of amputee advisory service or charity who would be able to tell you.
@@clairej81 The dealership told me that as I am looking to buy a new car. There is an handicapped van place that might be able to do it. I also might be able to drive with prosthetic since I was used to driving with the leg and not ankle movements. Btw I am in Idaho.
@@christhoms7102 try the amputee coalition i think its called its US based and they will be able to give you proper advice and also the legalities of what the dealership is saying as well because it doesn't sound right at all. I have a left foot accelerator as it means even when I can't wear my leg I'm still able to get about.
I saw a notification for your channel and it made me remember I had a dream about you! Pretty sure we were just hanging out and talking, I was definitely happy to have met you, but in classic dream fashion it never occurred to me that you live like 1200 miles from me lol
Automatic transmission is such an American thing. Yes these cars do get more common in Europe too, but a lot of people still prefer to shift manually. If you don't ask specifically for automatic you will always have your driving lessons in cars with manual transmission. At least it was the case when i learned driving 7 years ago. Just wondering how driving would work for you if you had to use both legs for driving or if you'd need an additional lever on the steering wheel like it is usually done for other disabled people. PS: Sry for any grammatical or spelling errors. Not a native English speaker.
In Germany taking the test in an automatic car means you're getting a licence that only allows you to drive automatic cars, taking it in a manual car gets you a licence that allows you to drive both, so it really makes sense for most people to learn on a manual car, since they're pretty widespread, even if your parents own an automatic car. It might be similar in other European countries
@@l.c.8475 Not many folk in South Africa have automatic. It's more expensive, so not all of us can afford one. Our licensing works the same as in Germany. Some people here take their test with a mini van or small truck so that they don't have to parallel park, but that license is still good for a sedan.
btw, my residual wound on my amputated limb has not fully healed yet, so I am wheel-chairing it around my home for now and when ever I go out for a drive, I put on my iWalk, no-hands crutch to get around with. Look it up, it's pretty amazing. It has also been a game-changer for my mobility issues, as I await the time when I am recovered enough to begin the prosthesis process - which should be around Christmas or early in the New Year. I am SO looking forward to that next step.
I'm an old guy, back in the 1960's my dad's shop had a customer with a Cadillac with hand controls, throttle and brake were both controlled with his right hand, the car owner lost both legs above the knee in WW2 . He had no problem driving and getting out and into his wheel chair by himself. He told me the only thing he worried about was if he needed to change a tire when out of town. This was before cell phones.
I have a pair of convertible hiking pants. They convert to hiking shorts by unzipping the pant leg just above the knee. If you didn't mind the additional asymmetry, you could unzip the right leg (allowing you to remove your prosthetic leg while driving), but leave the left leg on for a little additional warmth.
I'm an American who lives in Europe and have been a right below-the-knee amputee since 1986. Here at least a third of cars have manual shifts, which cannot be driven with just one foot. How do I drive stick-shift cars? The same way everyone else does. Phantom sensation is the key here. My brain believes I still have my right foot, and, thanks to prosthetics, I do. It's like driving with a boot on. So while my left foot takes care of the clutch, my right prosthetic foot operates the brake and gas pedals. It works! I always know where my right foot is, and if need be I can slam on the brakes as quickly as I ever could.
A few ideas for easier driving in cold weather: Pin lock, or seal-in vacuum socket instead of a sleeve vacuum socket, and have you considered a quick-release adapter for your socket, so you can taake the foot off and leave the socket on? Also great for long pants, being able to take off the foot to change pants without messing with the socket.
I found your videos when I was in the hospital after getting below the right knee amputation following a car crash last September, you've helped me a lot, I never got my DL before the accident because I could just walk everywhere and enjoyed that, but that's not an option anymore so I'm going to have to go get one soon and I'm real nervous about it but this helped abit. I don't have a prosthetic yet but I'm hoping I can get it before I end up taking the test just to avoid figuring out getting the chair in the car and getting in myself afterwards.
In the UK, Motability is one of the latgest car leasing compnaies. Motability provides vehicles for disabled drivers and many for the cars are adapted with hand controls for accelerator, brake and clutch, as stick shifts are the usual form of vehicle. The hand controls are behind the steering wheel and linked to the three pedals so the cars can be driven "normally" too.
@Amy L If people pay a big enough upfornt deposit to bring the payments in line with their "Mobility Allowance" they can ahve any car! I've even seen BMWs as part of the scheme.
Ive been driving left footed since my first transmetatarsal amputation in Aug 2019. Losing the whole leg this Sept didn't slow me down (got home on a Friday, drove that Sunday). When I go in a week to start on fitting for a prosthetic, one requirement is I have to be able to drive a manual. I own an upholstery shop and right now have three cars in that I can't move on my own. Plus my own 68 VW bug and 69 MGB are begging to be driven. I was surprised when the prosthetistist said not to sell my motorcycle, that about half her clients were bikers. Thumbs up on that.
I also am bka-right and I can drive a manual transmission car. I hook a rope around the accelerator cable, which is above the pedal. (There's a pivot so you actually pull on a cable by pushing the pedal) I run the cable up to a handle I hold in my left hand while my left thumb is on the wheel. It's easy, effective, and costs essentially nothing.
I haven’t been subscribed for very long (not even an hour lol), and I’m glad that I got to see your dogs. Their animated versions look so cute in your intro. 😊
Old friend mine’s dad only had one leg. He refused to give up his manual gear truck. He learned to drive very well with one leg, clutching, and Accelerating without any jerking of the truck.
Looks like the kids luv slurpen up the whipped cream woof woofy.Your vid was superb lots of great info.Different in Aus as we have the wheel on the right,but you can get the accelerator moved to the left side of the brake pedal if you have lost your right lower leg 👍🏻👍🏻
Right BKA person. Shorts are great and the preferred option for taking leg on or off for driving. However if long pants are a requirement get one with a wide knee and put in a zipper on the inside seam. That allow you to zip from the cuff to the hip. Coat zippers are good. Found a tailor that does that for about 25 per zipper. Hard part was explaining to tailor what I want and why.
Have you looked into a modification of the pedals, such that they are more centered (or totally shifted to the left, if you're the only one using your car)? I used to work with a lot of wheelchair users and depending on their abilities they had a whole variety of different modifications to their cars and I think this would be one of the easier modifications. Oh and sewing zippers is not *that* difficult, I recommend giving it a try:) Please pet your adorable puppers for me!
@@queerdor Yes, but cars are set up for people to drive with their right foot, so moving the pedals to the left slightly would mean more space for her prosthetic to sit without having to be bent underneath her 'meat leg' - meaning less taking off of the leg 😀
Amazingly simple and I'm happy for it being out there for anyone who needs it. Pups at the end are adorable. Some ice cream places do something similar to coffee shops, for the pup cups. That would also be fun for a patreon thing I bet.
My mom (disabled, but not an amputee) uses hand controls instead of the foot pedals: a knob pops into an attachment on the standard steering wheel and a lever for accelerating/braking is installed horizontally just under the steering wheel. She pushes a button to engage the lever whenever she starts her car - anyone else can drive it in standard fashion.
So... I kind of wonder if folks who have confusion about this have never driven a standard transmission vehicle? I know lots of young folks haven’t, it’s not as common any more. The immediate thought for me was, ‘oh she drives with her left like a floor clutch’ but I guess there’s also other adaptive tools or vehicle configurations you could use.
I lost my right leg above the knee just 3weeks ago when a drug addict pass out at the wheel and was standing at the rear of my wagon taking bundles of papers out to deliver when I heard a loud crash and I fell to the pavement and felt a burning pain I looked down and my right leg was smashed to pulp ,I oh my life to a quick thinking person who put a tornakay around my leg as I was loosing a lot of blood ,to cut a long story short I was airlifted to Melbourne Australia where after 5 operations I am just starting to learnt to get back on my feet again ,and was wondering how I would drive again until l came across your utube video and thought how easy is that ripp the leg off and get the left foot across and I can practice on my play station driving game thanks a million luv Gary Laver👍🍺🇦🇺😻
Same. Being disabled and being able to drive really is freeing. I too often feel trapped in my body and I’ve yet to truly find a way past that but being able to get out and go for a drive does help.
as someone who had a chronically injured right ankle, and had a reconstruction and spent time in a boot before and after surgery, I was like, you use your left leg. being able to take off your right leg sound like such an advantage though. also, I love the puppy content, amazing!
2006 BKA and drove 35 days after surgery. Use right foot for gas pedal and left foot for braking. Works fine. Highway Department won't allow me to drive stick shift, only automatic transmission. Knee does what ankle used too and feels like foot is still there.
I use my prosthetic leg to press the accelerator and I use my sound left leg to work the brake. I also had an adapter put in my car that puts an accelerator on the left side but I rarely use it.
I'm right AKA and I use my left leg too, just automatic, of course. I'm agree, it's not the best option, I can't do it comfortable in all kind of cars, I prefer SUV because I have more room to do it better. In small cars or maybe sports car It's better if I take off my prosthetic leg, but the problem is, exactly like u, when I have to go out and walk again. Here in Florida, I had no problems to have my driver license, I just proof that I can do it well, and that´s it :) I love your videos!
Hi I'm rhs lower amp and still driver a manual ute and a 36 wheeler truck with my right leg it takes a bit to got used to but once you are not problem, very interesting watching your videos Always put a smile on my face keep it up 👍🙂.
I have use of both legs but I’m 6’1 and 300lbs. My right leg often seizes in compact cars and no driving schools have suvs. This video gives me hope that I may learn to use my left which I have far greater control and precision with.
I have to use my left foot too, which isn't perfect but it's not a huge adjustment. The foot isn't flat on the pedal so it's more like driving with the side edge of my foot. I usually take my prosthetic off and just lay it on the floor behind my left foot. It's a little less precise, so sometimes I jackrabbit start a little or brake harder than I intend but it's never been a real problem. Its not worth it to get hand controls or reverse the pedals--- which is called Adaptive Driving Controls. In CO and other states, you are required to attend a class for that, although I think it's only a couple hours. I never bothered. The other thing is that I often drive other vehicles, or share a vehicle with someone else like a spouse. So it's way easier to just adapt to driving with standard controls than go back and forth with between control set ups or expect that other person to drive adaptive controls.
![Walking into a hospital & leaving as an amputee: my amputation story [CC]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/x9EEbrs4oWc/mqdefault.jpg)
![Walking into a hospital & leaving as an amputee: my amputation story [CC]](/img/tr.png)
Thanks for you video, I have a 15 years old girl (right leg amputee)wanting to know what to expect once she became ready to take the responsibility of a car.
This video helped our family to understand that there is not reason for be afraid to drive and realize that she can became an skilled driver in the future. Thanks again.
i’m a below the knee right side amputee! i use my right prosthetic leg to push on the gas and my left leg to push on the breaks no need for all of this :)
Get a left foot accelerator and generally no other adaptations are necessary unless other impairments apply
Yay, let he go go go!
I wear a prosthetic leg and when I started learning to drive I got a left foot accelerator so basically the accelerator is on the left and the brake stays in the middle it’s brilliant and I don’t have to scoot my leg anywhere! Maybe think about that?
Same here works get get dual pedals so one tucks out of way so anyone can still drive the car.
I have the same adjustment but because one of my legs is paralysed from the knee down. It makes driving feel so much more smooth for me!
I have a flip over left foot accelerator it's brilliant aa it means when my husband uses my car it can be flipped over so he can drive.
I installed a left foot accelerator pedal before my wife had her amputation. She was confident before she had her amputation. She has both pedals so either of us can driver her car with no changes. I have to tell the oil change and tire shop about the extra pedal. I did the same to my pick-up in case she ever needs to drive it. Both were made using Chevrolet factory pedals so they look factory.
My state would prefer I have a guard for the pedal that is not in use but we have been driving this way for 2 years and it is great.
A man in LA makes a portable left foot pedal device that can be used for travel and rental cars.
An above the knee amputee acquaintance has a module that connects to his floor quickly. He just quickly removes it when others need to drive.
My husband uses one too. He can drive without it (and doesn't have any restrictions on his licence) but the left foot accelerator just makes it more comfortable. The quick release means we can both use the same car easily (we were a 1 car family for years), works well for road trips too. It's similar to this one: askjan.org/products/The-3545-Left-Foot-Accelerator-by-MPD.cfm
Hi Jo, I lost my leg at 19 (Im 50 now) and I have never bothered to check out how other people experince beeing without a lower (right) leg. I do hower find that I have never found any real big issues with it other than I cant run. I have a similar leg to yours and driving comes quite natural with the metal leg. I do find it more easy to maneouvre the gas pedal and have no issues shifting to the breakpedal. I drive a motorcycle, and it works just fine. Skiing was an issue at first until I found the right ski boots enabling me to get it off. Before that I had to use a plastic bag to make the foot slide easier. Just wrap a towel around the metal pipe and the ski boot will fit just fine. There are a lot of benefits having only one leg. Ealking in hot sand, well rest for a while on the metal leg. You dont have to cut nails on that foot. You dont have to wash it. I use my leg for everything, also swimming. They had to change some screws to SS since the others corroded, but other than that no problems. Well I gurss I just wanted to comment should it be of some positive use for someone. Phantom pains can be a real pain. Luckily I have it only when I have a cold with fever for some reason. Nice to look at your very positive nature in your videos. BR from Sweden.
I'm a right leg above the knee amputee your videos have helped me through the 10 months that I've been going through this journey. I have a left foot adapter that I bought on Amazon and I had my mechanic install. It works perfect and I highly recommend it. Please keep the videos coming and all your positivity!
Hello mr. Mavila can you tell me the name and reference of the product ,you get in the amazon, I am a right leg above
The knee amputee. Thanks
8:06 omg this reminded me of a reaction my mom caused. She's also had a leg amputated below the knee. We were at a concert, and her prosthetic was getting uncomfortable so she popped it out. The guy sitting next to me just happened to be looking in her direction and the look on his face was priceless lmao. After about 30 seconds he recovered enough to say "I can honestly say I have never seen that before." 🤣🤣🤣
There’s several brands of convertible hiking pants that have zip-off or roll-up legs. They’re a little more expensive than a good pair of jeans, but cheaper than regular pants + tailor.
For tailoring, I think there could be more alternatives than a zip to the hip. You might be able to do a horizontal cut and put in snaps, zips, or buttons and then unfasten and take off the leg, as well as the bottom portion of the pants. You could also look into pants where each leg is kind of like a wrap skirt with a deep slip that is covered by fabric. I have a pair and they are very fun and flowy. There are some cool pants out there!
Edit: searching wrap leg pants gave some results of what I mean!
I'm a right BTK amputee. I drive left footed, it works better for me than using the prosthetic. It took getting used to but works fine now. I do use cruise control a lot to make it easier.
Northern Minnesota winters. I wear cuffless sweat pants a lot. These stretch enough to be rolled up almost as high as a pair of shorts and I can put my leg on and off with them staying on. It works for me. Your results may vary.
Update. I've now learned to drive with the prosthetic and now prefer it.
Improvise, adapt, overcome.
Not sure if you've been asked/answered this question before, but when you initially got your amputation how did your pets react? Did have they behave towards you change significantly or did they pay much attention at all? Not sure if this has already been covered in another video, if so does anyone know which one? I just have an interest in animal behaviour and how they work in relation to humans.
And no, this has nothing to do with the video! Just thought of the question as your dogs were getting in the car with you and the thought just randomly popped into my head!
Did you ever get an answer elsewhere?
@@limiv5272 I saw a short where she said they couldn’t care less.
I can't remember where but she said they didn't act any differently
I was in the hospital for 3 months after my amputation my cat Zeus was staying with my folks did act a little strange to me at first I think because he just hadn't seen me in so long he's okay with me now
@@limiv5272 Spectacularly late reply, sorry! Someone has just replied with their personal experience though
Have you considered getting a flip pedal installed? I drive left footed because I have a pain condition that means I can not drive "normally". If you have a flip pedal your partner can still drive the car right footed with acceleration being on the right...if you then take over driving you just flip down a pedal on the left and down pops the left sided acceleration pedal (the right one raises up out of the way of prosthetic leg or limb that doesn't work properly). If you did get one installed you would have more comfort and freedom.
Not sure about your part of the world but my car adaptions are funded by motability. I just pay motability for the rental of my car (which needs to fit a big hefty electric wheelchair and I get a new car every few years) using my PIP allowance. You may want to check out available schemes and/or grants available where you live xx
Looks like Motability is only in the UK, which makes me sad, because I would love to use that.
@@nathandeunk3533 Adaption specialists in your part of the world would be the best place to start to see the price of specific adaptions.....then costs would probably be covered by insurances/benevolent funds/charities/grants depending on your specific circumstances and income xx
As a right hip disarticulation amputee, thank you for showing this! So many people are blown away that I was driving one month after losing my entire right leg. I had to try it to see if I could do it. I was tired of feeling trapped by my body. I lost my leg due to bone cancer. For 4 months I lived with my right leg in a brace that I could not remove. There was no way to drive during that time. I missed having the freedom of being able to just do something simple like drive and take myself somewhere. Like you, some days I can't get out of the car, but at least I can take myself somewhere besides my couch. Driving is the only time that I feel like the old me.
There are some clothing manufacturers who make adaptive clothing for all kinds of mobility issues. For those one-legged amputees who just need one shoe, you can buy them that way now, too. Zappos provides both! For clothing www.zappos.com/adaptive-clothing and for the single shoe www.zappos.com/e/adaptive/singleshoes
I'm so thankful that my mom is able to sew and can modify my clothing for me. Check with the amputee groups near you. There is a lady in mine who can also modify pants. Worth checking into!
Thanks for sharing so that others can see how amputee life can be!
1:49 Thank you for the video. I recently lost my right leg 1 inch below the knee you make me feel a lot better knowing that there's hope. To actually see someone driving. God bless you and thank you again. ❤
I had my right leg amputated last February and I love to watch your videos. You have helped me so much showing others how you are able to do certain things that I and others still find difficult for us to do. I look forward to watching more of you. Thank you for the help. 😊
Hi.
I am sending you a huge thank you and a hug.
I've been an amputee for a month. I've been doing pretty good at keeping my chin up and going forward..., until today. I'm a total mess today. I spoke with my brother this morning and he did his best to be there for me. I decided to get out and stay away from my bed so I could stop crying. I spoke with a couple of neighbors and what I thought was going to be a short visit turned into a lovely day and evening. I'm writing to you now in the beginning of the wee hours. I noticed that my brother sent me your video. Well, I completely loved your message. Listening to your positivity was like a gift I didn't expect. I've got to come up with a gift for my brother for thinking about me. Once again, thank you very much.
C.
I turn on my seat heater ALL THE TIME for my back (spinal fusion). Especially if I'm driving a long distance, it saves me hours!
teenager-in-90's me is screaming that you need tear-away track pants. IMO they're MADE for you to remove a leg while still wearing pants!
She's always wearing pants - even in the snow, haha...
I have a pair of those! Yeah, they're old!
Yes! Seat warmers are life savers. I use it on my period, when my hip muscles go numb, when my back hurts, or when I get leg cramps.
If anyone is curious, I was paralyzed and am currently on a cane (still learning how to walk independently, but can move my ankle just fine)
Tear away track pants might help? With the snaps on the sides? Or men’s pants that zip off to turn into shorts lol.
lol I wear those camping
Came here to say this!
I miss my tear away track pants. Used to wear them to prosthetic clinic.
These pants are a big hit with husbands as well...
7:18 flash forward two years from this extremely valid complaint, and you actually found accessible pants with zippers built in up the legs! No tailor or anything!
Seriously, what a huge find. I hope you have lots of your new pants, to be much comfier in Colorado winters. It’s no good being cold OR uncomfy! Much love from a non-amputee but very pro-accessibility Minnesotan!
Thanks Jo, that answered my questions very well. At 6’2”, I’m too physically big for driving the way you do. I’m going to have to look into the left foot adapter idea once my leg is healed enough. I’m also a right leg below the knee amputee, as of the 23rd of October
I have been a below knee amputee for three months now. I also have cancer, osteosarcoma, which is why I lost my leg in the first place. Going through chemo while simultaneously losing my limb has been a real experience. I thank you for your videos. Please know, even years after you made a video you continue being helpful to newer amputees. I thank you and appreciate 12:34 you.
Hey Jo! I've written a few times. This video could not have come at a better time! Just a review, I am a RAKA. I lost my leg due to arteriosclerosis (Atherosclerosis happens when the endothelium (a thin membrane that lines the inside of the heart and blood vessels) becomes damaged, due to factors such as smoking...) and smoking 2-3 packs a day (until January 14, 2018). I already had issues and almost lost my left leg in January 2014. I stopped smoking in January 2018 when the same issues came up as in 2014, and almost lost my right leg in January 2018. I quit too late. On May 22, 2018, my body rejected the artificial artery used to save my right leg and went from 70% occluded (blocked) to 100% occluded in about an hour. I was put under in the ER and woke up 2 days later sans my right leg. I am about to get my 3rd socket and using a test socket at the moment. The suction type just failed on me. The liner caused pain, and skin to socket-well-it would just fall off half the time. So I am back to a socket with straps. Anyway, my wife took me out to an empty parking lot with her car (an Equinox), and just like you, used my left leg (and without my leg on). I did really well. Only a couple of quick starts because of not realizing the pressure on the pedal. But I parked a couple of times perfectly. However, my wife was a wreck. Overly nervous. Two weekends ago, I drove to our storage facility to get some things taken out (we're moving soon from AZ to KS). First time on city streets. I did fine. In fact, did the "guy thing" of driving with my left hand hanging on top of the steering wheel. Which 1) made my wife very nervous, but 2) made me feel "normal" again. The only suggestion I would make is I used to have a Ford Expedition that allowed the gas pedal to adjust back and forward. I did become uncomfortable crossing over after a while and the gas pedal in the Equinox is pretty deep. I'm sending this to my wife just to have her see, it's OK. AZ does not require testing - except if a driver uses hand controls.
What got me... several months back we had some annual spring flooding. The news announced that some kids had located a prosthetic leg. Law enforcement was searching for "the rest of the owner" to ensure that person is alive and well and to return said leg. Later that week the news was happy to say the owner and leg was reunited! Turns out it was his older leg and was just kept for a backup and was lost when he went for shelter.
Omg Adidas track pants!!!! They have the tare away buttons on the the sides of them!! I dunno how into adidas and or track pants you are but might be a good option for cold days ❤️❤️
Let me start by saying THANK YOU!!! I'm not one to leave any comments on CZcams videos but I had to take the time to comment on yours. The reason for my comment is that I've been drowning in a cup of water ever since my motorcycle accident (possible some ptsd). I broke my right ankle and had surgery on it, seeing my injury after the surgery broke me down and I've been struggling to gain some confidence on healing and getting back to whom I was. Seeing how excited and confident you were doing that video blew my mind, here I am feeling sorry for myself about a broken ankle and yet you have gone through so much and even lost a part of yourself and still be full of so much life. So again thank you for inspiring so much confidence.
I became a rbk amp in March 2019, and prior to that (like you) I had spent 5 years in either a cast or a boot. I drove a big Ford Expedition with plenty of foot room, so I got used to driving with a cast or boot on. I have no problem driving with my prosthetic as a result. In June of this year, I lost my left foot and became a bilateral amp so having a left prosthetic really doesn't affect my driving at all. A year ago, I traded in my Expedition for something a bit smaller, but still an SUV because it is easier for me to get in and out of than a car. I haven't been in my wife's Hyundai for over a year because it's difficult for me because it sits so low. Thankfully, the new vehicle is still very convenient for me with two prosthetics.
Great great video. I do so miss my Lab. She passed a long time ago, so it was a real treat sharing time with your babies. Thank you. I am down to under 2 weeks now to the actual day of removal. It should be interesting for this old fart .
I am also an old fart LOL, lost my right leg above knee last year. I now drive a handicap van with a ramp, transfer seat on drivers side, and a left sided gas pedal. Never a problem driving this way. All about attitude and you will do fine, just make sure to listen closely to them in rehab. Exercise is very important for both legs and hips.
Omg you give me Soo much hope Jo I just had my leg amputated five months ago and I'm learning a lot from all of your videos
Cool. I wondered how. I haven't drove since my surgery back in July/18. A lot of it is because I can't afford to. With insurance rates, gas, up keep of vehicle, and not sure how I would do it so I let my license just expire. Besides I'm 57 and I've driven my whole life up till then. I'm comfortable letting all you young drivers drive me around. I'm seeing things in my city ( Edmonton Alberta ) I never saw before.. haha Very informative video ! Thanks Jo :)
Your video helped me immensely. I'm a right AK amputee, and I haven't gotten my prosthetic yet but I learned to drive after watching your video. I plan on removing my prosthetic to drive because like you I believe it would get in the way.......thanks Jo.
Hey Jo, loved you on “the line” the other day!
The images in my mind when you say "getting my limb hacked off" . YIKES !!!!!
Thank You for sharing
This video link was sent to me, thank you for making it! I'm looking at losing my right ankle as well, and after watching this and your other videos I realize that with work I can do this. Thank you for practically positive!!
I am a above knee right leg amputee, I have a left sided gas pedal. I had no problem at all adapting to using my left foot. There is no laws that say I cannot use my left foot. I like your videos because there are so many ideas you have given for problems I also have to deal with. Life goes on, I am about ready now to start riding my mountain bike again. There isn't much a amputee cannot do knowing the how to do it.
My aunt is an AK amputee on her left leg; thankfully she didn't have any issues learning to drive (an automatic car). However, when she learned to drive the dimmer switch for headlights was in the floorboard and needed to be pushed with a foot. My granddad got very fretted with her when he was teaching her to drive because she'd slow down every time a car approached before she'd turn off her high beams and then again when they passed and she needed to turn them back on. "You don't need to slow down to work the headlights! Thats why it has a separate switch!!" He told her. She responded "well dad, I've only got one leg to use over here. How do you think I can hit the pedal and the switch at the same time?"
He didn't say anything after that, and bought her a car with a dimmer switch in the dashboard when he was able. Lol.
My dad is a left below the knee amputee but he has a right ankle fusion. So he drives with hand controls. When he was all healed and ready he was taught my a professional how to drive with hand controls and retook his test and now has that restriction on his license. If we have had a very long active day and then has to drive home he will take his leg and shoe off and drive home. It is super helpful. We are so glad that he has the freedom to drive without needing his feet or shoes. Sometimes if we need to take my moms car or my car, I will drive so he doesnt have to uncomfortable driving. If we have a valee or get the car serviced we simply alert them that he hand controls and to wait a few seconds between starting it and driving so that the pedals are on and not the hand controls
Thank you I lost my right leg in a motorcycle accident watching your video help me with driving a again
❤ I'm in awe of your capabilities!
- As a disabled man 12 years.
Even as a fully able bodied person, I occasionally drive with my left foot. Thanks for expanding! I just don’t really understand why people ask though; since that is a thing.
I'm wondering how your pups reacted when you came home from the hospital after your amputation. Did they notice a difference? Were they just happy you were more likely to be in one spot?
If you watch her older videos from after both her surgeries, the pups stayed with Jo's parents so that they didn't jump on her (on the couch) and hurt her leg for the first few weeks or so. She had footage (or full videos) of when Jo and Brian would go to her parents to visit the puppies. :)
I have a friend who has her right leg
amputated below the knee and she has drop foot on the right so she got hand controls on her car. It works great for her but it did cost $4000.
There used to be jeans that either zippered off and turned into shorts or there also were break away pants that literally buttoned up both sides. They were a fad at one point. You could probably find some vintage pairs on eBay! Edit: they still make them! One in cargo! Zip offs, turn into shorts, breakaway pants button down both sides!
Curious if hand gears would help anyone reading in the comments. I am not an amputee but I have CRPS/ RSD and am unable to drive with my feet . Anyways I have a handicapped accessible van and took a driver's course to learn how to use hand gears for gas and brake . Once I got out of my own head anxiety and all it is actually very easy. There are different options of gears as we all learn differently and so you have different choices of location and type of gears . I'm thankful for the independence and ability to drive. Jo you are awesome. We share many things in common. Health wise and injuries were very similar in how it all happened. Anyways thanks for being a blessing to me and many others.
Even with two feet, I’m terrified to drive!
(I do however have chronic pain in both legs, sensory overload, and go cross-eyed when stressed) Love you, Jo! I love your videos and you make me feel less alone ❤️
Your videos have been so helpful as I live in a rural area of West Virginia and don’t know many amputees to ask questions. There are no support groups in my area so your videos have been so beneficial.
Just found this video. I already had an prosthetic when I learned to drive.
It's no big thing when you are used to.
I don't hold the leg up all the time. Since the foot can be "bend" a little, I drive almost as everyone else but I need a little more strength in my knee to bend it
Thanks Jo,
I enjoyed the video. I am am also a RBKA amputee . My 5 year anniversary is on Jan. 2nd. In California, I needed to retake drivers test but with Covid guidelines, haven't been able to-do so to learn the hand controller I got. You are so right when you speak about the days or weeks when wearing prosthetic is nearly impossible. Keep being positive!!
I had a cyst removed on my right foot, and I had to drive, so I taught myself how to drive with my left foot while I was recovering. It was surprisingly easy once I got the hang of it. I wouldn't have tried it if I hadn't seen a previous video of yours, so thanks for sharing.
Although we drive on the correct (left) side of the road in my country, we also have the clutch on the left, and the other two pedals on the right. So we also use our left foot only for the clutch, which is not a problem if you're driving an automatic. It should CLEARLY be stated that you are driving an automatic vehicle and don't need both your feet.
How about wearing skirts? Longer skirts could probably keep you warmer but still be convenient. I dunno if it's your style but you could try it out.
I just said the same thing.
It's basically like having a blanket on you at all times
That’s a great perspective, looking at things that you can do and don’t feel held back in. I’m not an amputee so I can’t think about it in that lens for myself, but I can think about it in terms of depression and anxiety. You’re description of being trapped in your body really hit home for me, so maybe your mindset of focusing on what I’m not held back by could help me too :) Thanks for sharing
Two things about the zipper on the sides of your Jean's
1. Allot of the dry cleaners do alterations...so if you have to drop something off at the dry cleaners, just take a pair of jeans (or whatever) at the same time
2 I never had a zipper put in at a tailor before but it shouldn't be that much. I have never been charged more than 15 for any one alteration
I have had allot of work on something, which cost more...but the single charges are not a big deal...as long as you don't ask them to take it in, shorten the legs, give you real pockets, etc...it should be pretty cheap
Your positive attitude on life with what you have gone through is so uplifting
I live in Sweden and until sometime around 2010 I think it was the law said it was forbidden to drive in clogs, which always was a problem for Danish lorrydrivers coming over, they had to drive in their socks only here as you had to be able to "feel" the pedals.
I also learned how to drive with my left foot I was born with a disability and the right side of my body is the affected side, so whenever I was learning how to drive I learned with my left foot and that’s just how it’s always been and that’s just how it always will be because I will never have enough control over the mobility on the right side of my body!
Ouch
Have you ever looked into a left foot accelerator? I'm also a right below knee amp and drive using this its great I have a flip over version which means it can be moved over when my husband is using my car. It's much easier as well sitting with my prosthetic as there is no peddle in the way!
I am a new rbka amputee and still waiting on my prosthetic. I currently drive with my left foot with no change on the accelerator. I have been told ( by the dealer) that putting a left accelerator will void the warranty of the car. Thoughts?
@@christhoms7102 contact the manufacturer for advise but it's not voided my warranty where in the world are you as there is bound to be some sort of amputee advisory service or charity who would be able to tell you.
@@clairej81 The dealership told me that as I am looking to buy a new car. There is an handicapped van place that might be able to do it. I also might be able to drive with prosthetic since I was used to driving with the leg and not ankle movements. Btw I am in Idaho.
@@christhoms7102 try the amputee coalition i think its called its US based and they will be able to give you proper advice and also the legalities of what the dealership is saying as well because it doesn't sound right at all. I have a left foot accelerator as it means even when I can't wear my leg I'm still able to get about.
The first time you told us i tried too. It was so helpful when i sprained my ankle and was wearing a boot.
I saw a notification for your channel and it made me remember I had a dream about you! Pretty sure we were just hanging out and talking, I was definitely happy to have met you, but in classic dream fashion it never occurred to me that you live like 1200 miles from me lol
Automatic transmission is such an American thing. Yes these cars do get more common in Europe too, but a lot of people still prefer to shift manually. If you don't ask specifically for automatic you will always have your driving lessons in cars with manual transmission. At least it was the case when i learned driving 7 years ago.
Just wondering how driving would work for you if you had to use both legs for driving or if you'd need an additional lever on the steering wheel like it is usually done for other disabled people.
PS: Sry for any grammatical or spelling errors. Not a native English speaker.
In Germany taking the test in an automatic car means you're getting a licence that only allows you to drive automatic cars, taking it in a manual car gets you a licence that allows you to drive both, so it really makes sense for most people to learn on a manual car, since they're pretty widespread, even if your parents own an automatic car.
It might be similar in other European countries
@@l.c.8475 Not many folk in South Africa have automatic. It's more expensive, so not all of us can afford one. Our licensing works the same as in Germany. Some people here take their test with a mini van or small truck so that they don't have to parallel park, but that license is still good for a sedan.
btw, my residual wound on my amputated limb has not fully healed yet, so I am wheel-chairing it around my home for now and when ever I go out for a drive, I put on my iWalk, no-hands crutch to get around with. Look it up, it's pretty amazing. It has also been a game-changer for my mobility issues, as I await the time when I am recovered enough to begin the prosthesis process - which should be around Christmas or early in the New Year. I am SO looking forward to that next step.
I'm an old guy, back in the 1960's my dad's shop had a customer with a Cadillac with hand controls, throttle and brake were both controlled with his right hand, the car owner lost both legs above the knee in WW2 . He had no problem driving and getting out and into his wheel chair by himself. He told me the only thing he worried about was if he needed to change a tire when out of town. This was before cell phones.
I have a pair of convertible hiking pants. They convert to hiking shorts by unzipping the pant leg just above the knee. If you didn't mind the additional asymmetry, you could unzip the right leg (allowing you to remove your prosthetic leg while driving), but leave the left leg on for a little additional warmth.
I'm an American who lives in Europe and have been a right below-the-knee amputee since 1986. Here at least a third of cars have manual shifts, which cannot be driven with just one foot. How do I drive stick-shift cars? The same way everyone else does. Phantom sensation is the key here. My brain believes I still have my right foot, and, thanks to prosthetics, I do. It's like driving with a boot on. So while my left foot takes care of the clutch, my right prosthetic foot operates the brake and gas pedals. It works! I always know where my right foot is, and if need be I can slam on the brakes as quickly as I ever could.
A few ideas for easier driving in cold weather: Pin lock, or seal-in vacuum socket instead of a sleeve vacuum socket, and have you considered a quick-release adapter for your socket, so you can taake the foot off and leave the socket on? Also great for long pants, being able to take off the foot to change pants without messing with the socket.
I found your videos when I was in the hospital after getting below the right knee amputation following a car crash last September, you've helped me a lot, I never got my DL before the accident because I could just walk everywhere and enjoyed that, but that's not an option anymore so I'm going to have to go get one soon and I'm real nervous about it but this helped abit. I don't have a prosthetic yet but I'm hoping I can get it before I end up taking the test just to avoid figuring out getting the chair in the car and getting in myself afterwards.
In the UK, Motability is one of the latgest car leasing compnaies. Motability provides vehicles for disabled drivers and many for the cars are adapted with hand controls for accelerator, brake and clutch, as stick shifts are the usual form of vehicle. The hand controls are behind the steering wheel and linked to the three pedals so the cars can be driven "normally" too.
@Amy L If people pay a big enough upfornt deposit to bring the payments in line with their "Mobility Allowance" they can ahve any car! I've even seen BMWs as part of the scheme.
I am a brand new right leg above knee amputee at 58. This is a crazy scary adventure. I am grateful for your video.
Ive been driving left footed since my first transmetatarsal amputation in Aug 2019. Losing the whole leg this Sept didn't slow me down (got home on a Friday, drove that Sunday). When I go in a week to start on fitting for a prosthetic, one requirement is I have to be able to drive a manual. I own an upholstery shop and right now have three cars in that I can't move on my own. Plus my own 68 VW bug and 69 MGB are begging to be driven. I was surprised when the prosthetistist said not to sell my motorcycle, that about half her clients were bikers. Thumbs up on that.
I also am bka-right and I can drive a manual transmission car. I hook a rope around the accelerator cable, which is above the pedal. (There's a pivot so you actually pull on a cable by pushing the pedal)
I run the cable up to a handle I hold in my left hand while my left thumb is on the wheel. It's easy, effective, and costs essentially nothing.
I haven’t been subscribed for very long (not even an hour lol), and I’m glad that I got to see your dogs. Their animated versions look so cute in your intro. 😊
You know I don’t even have a license but I’ve always wondered about this....
Old friend mine’s dad only had one leg. He refused to give up his manual gear truck. He learned to drive very well with one leg, clutching, and Accelerating without any jerking of the truck.
Looks like the kids luv slurpen up the whipped cream woof woofy.Your vid was superb lots of great info.Different in Aus as we have the wheel on the right,but you can get the accelerator moved to the left side of the brake pedal if you have lost your right lower leg 👍🏻👍🏻
Right BKA person. Shorts are great and the preferred option for taking leg on or off for driving. However if long pants are a requirement get one with a wide knee and put in a zipper on the inside seam.
That allow you to zip from the cuff to the hip. Coat zippers are good. Found a tailor that does that for about 25 per zipper. Hard part was explaining to tailor what I want and why.
Hi Jo your dogs are so cute their happiness at going to get their treat made my day they're such a joy to watch 😊
I used to wear zip off or snap off pants, those may work for winter! Not the most stylish, but they’re warm at least.
I currently work as a Starbucks barista and it is absolutely a bright spot in our day to see pups and give them little puppacinos.
Thank you so much for your videos. Just became a bka on right leg. Your videos have given me a better understanding of the way things work..
Have you looked into a modification of the pedals, such that they are more centered (or totally shifted to the left, if you're the only one using your car)? I used to work with a lot of wheelchair users and depending on their abilities they had a whole variety of different modifications to their cars and I think this would be one of the easier modifications. Oh and sewing zippers is not *that* difficult, I recommend giving it a try:) Please pet your adorable puppers for me!
Shes explained she learned to drive with her left foot years ago
@@queerdor Yes, but cars are set up for people to drive with their right foot, so moving the pedals to the left slightly would mean more space for her prosthetic to sit without having to be bent underneath her 'meat leg' - meaning less taking off of the leg 😀
@@Lioness99a she doesnt take off her leg to drive
@@queerdor Did you watch the video?! 😂
@@Lioness99a I did yeah she was changing legs to go running
I live in Pueblo Colorado and I lost my right leg this past March and I really enjoyed watching your video
It's funny, I was questioning how you drive earlier today, and now I get this in my recommendations 😂
Amazingly simple and I'm happy for it being out there for anyone who needs it. Pups at the end are adorable. Some ice cream places do something similar to coffee shops, for the pup cups. That would also be fun for a patreon thing I bet.
My mom (disabled, but not an amputee) uses hand controls instead of the foot pedals: a knob pops into an attachment on the standard steering wheel and a lever for accelerating/braking is installed horizontally just under the steering wheel. She pushes a button to engage the lever whenever she starts her car - anyone else can drive it in standard fashion.
So... I kind of wonder if folks who have confusion about this have never driven a standard transmission vehicle? I know lots of young folks haven’t, it’s not as common any more. The immediate thought for me was, ‘oh she drives with her left like a floor clutch’ but I guess there’s also other adaptive tools or vehicle configurations you could use.
I lost my right leg above the knee just 3weeks ago when a drug addict pass out at the wheel and was standing at the rear of my wagon taking bundles of papers out to deliver when I heard a loud crash and I fell to the pavement and felt a burning pain I looked down and my right leg was smashed to pulp ,I oh my life to a quick thinking person who put a tornakay around my leg as I was loosing a lot of blood ,to cut a long story short I was airlifted to Melbourne Australia where after 5 operations I am just starting to learnt to get back on my feet again ,and was wondering how I would drive again until l came across your utube video and thought how easy is that ripp the leg off and get the left foot across and I can practice on my play station driving game thanks a million luv Gary Laver👍🍺🇦🇺😻
Same. Being disabled and being able to drive really is freeing. I too often feel trapped in my body and I’ve yet to truly find a way past that but being able to get out and go for a drive does help.
as someone who had a chronically injured right ankle, and had a reconstruction and spent time in a boot before and after surgery, I was like, you use your left leg. being able to take off your right leg sound like such an advantage though. also, I love the puppy content, amazing!
2006 BKA and drove 35 days after surgery. Use right foot for gas pedal and left foot for braking. Works fine. Highway Department won't allow me to drive stick shift, only automatic transmission. Knee does what ankle used too and feels like foot is still there.
I use my prosthetic leg to press the accelerator and I use my sound left leg to work the brake. I also had an adapter put in my car that puts an accelerator on the left side but I rarely use it.
in the uk you can get joggers that you can remove the lower part of the leg and turn them into long shorts
What about skirts? You can find long warm skirts, that would keep your access to remove your leg.
I'm right AKA and I use my left leg too, just automatic, of course. I'm agree, it's not the best option, I can't do it comfortable in all kind of cars, I prefer SUV because I have more room to do it better. In small cars or maybe sports car It's better if I take off my prosthetic leg, but the problem is, exactly like u, when I have to go out and walk again. Here in Florida, I had no problems to have my driver license, I just proof that I can do it well, and that´s it :) I love your videos!
I just thought you had the car altered so the controls were on the steering wheel. I love your pups, they are gorgeous.
Jo is awesome person. I'm making a decision also my right ankle is bad. I may get an amputation in the future. Thanks for your good energy Jo.
Hi I'm rhs lower amp and still driver a manual ute and a 36 wheeler truck with my right leg it takes a bit to got used to but once you are not problem, very interesting watching your videos Always put a smile on my face keep it up 👍🙂.
Hey there! You could always get a heated blanket they have them that plug into your car! Just thought I would share.
Some outdoor shop have trowsers that can be ziped of the legs and turned into shorts and there quite baggy but you can only get navy ones.
I have use of both legs but I’m 6’1 and 300lbs. My right leg often seizes in compact cars and no driving schools have suvs. This video gives me hope that I may learn to use my left which I have far greater control and precision with.
I have to use my left foot too, which isn't perfect but it's not a huge adjustment. The foot isn't flat on the pedal so it's more like driving with the side edge of my foot. I usually take my prosthetic off and just lay it on the floor behind my left foot. It's a little less precise, so sometimes I jackrabbit start a little or brake harder than I intend but it's never been a real problem.
Its not worth it to get hand controls or reverse the pedals--- which is called Adaptive Driving Controls. In CO and other states, you are required to attend a class for that, although I think it's only a couple hours. I never bothered.
The other thing is that I often drive other vehicles, or share a vehicle with someone else like a spouse. So it's way easier to just adapt to driving with standard controls than go back and forth with between control set ups or expect that other person to drive adaptive controls.