"I felt like my world was falling apart."
Meet Jodie, a 55-year-old mother and grandmother who has faced more challenges in the past few years than many of us will face in a lifetime. After being diagnosed with diabetes, Jodie struggled to manage the disease and suffered a serious infection in her foot that ultimately resulted in its amputation. While this would be devastating for anyone, Jodie refused to let it define her. Instead, she chose to focus on what she could control - her mindset and her determination to move forward. Join us as we hear Jodie's inspiring story of resilience, hope, and the power of a positive attitude.
Interviewer: Can you take us back to the moment you found out about the plans for amputation? How did you react and what thoughts were going through your mind?
Jodie: It was devastating. I had been struggling with diabetes for years, but I never imagined it would come to this. When my doctor told me that my foot was infected and needed to be amputated, I felt like my world was falling apart. I was scared and overwhelmed, but I knew I had to face it head-on.
When the doctors told me that amputation was the only option, I was devastated. I remember thinking that my life was over, that I would never be able to do the things I loved again. But I also knew that I couldn't stay in that mindset if I wanted to move forward.
Interviewer: How did you begin to cope with the loss of your foot? What steps did you take to adapt to your new reality?
Jodie: At first, it was really tough. I was in a lot of pain and had to rely on others for help with even the most basic tasks. But I also knew that I couldn't let this defeat me. I started focusing on what I could control - my mindset and my determination. I worked with a physical therapist to learn how to walk with a prosthetic, and I started setting small goals for myself. At first, it was just being able to walk around the block without getting winded. Then it was getting back to work and being able to do the things I loved again.
Interviewer: How has your experience changed your perspective on life? What lessons have you learned through this journey?
Jodie: It's definitely changed my perspective in a lot of ways. I've learned that we're all capable of so much more than we think we are. I've also learned the importance of having a support network - friends and family who will be there for you no matter what. And I've learned that a positive attitude can make all the difference. Even when things seem impossible, if you believe in yourself and keep moving forward, anything is possible.
Interviewer: What advice would you give to someone who is going through a similar experience? How can they find hope and strength during difficult times?
Jodie: My advice would be to take it one day at a time, and to focus on what you can control. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and support you, and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. And most importantly, never give up hope. Even when things seem impossible, keep pushing forward and never stop believing in yourself.
Interviewer: How did you cope with the loss of your foot?
Jodie: It was definitely a process. At first, I felt like I had lost a part of myself. I was self-conscious and felt like everyone was staring at me. But eventually, I started to realise that my foot didn't define me. I was still the same person, and I could still do everything I wanted to do. I started working with a physical therapist and learned how to walk with a prosthetic. It was a challenge, but it was also empowering to see what I was capable of.
Interviewer: What kind of changes did you make in your life after losing your foot?
Jodie: Losing my foot was a turning point in my life. I realised I couldn't keep living the way I was living, and I needed to make some serious changes. I started taking my health more seriously. I knew that if I didn't make changes, I could lose more than just my foot. So, I started eating healthier and exercising more. I also made some changes in my career. I had been working a desk job for years, but I realised that I wanted to do something more meaningful with my life. So, I went back to school to become a nurse. It was a lot of hard work, but it was worth it.
Interviewer: How has your life changed since you lost your foot?
Jodie: In many ways, I feel like I am living a fuller life now. Losing my foot was a wake-up call that reminded me how precious life is. I have a new appreciation for every moment and every opportunity that comes my way. I'm also more confident in myself and my abilities. I know that if I can overcome something as challenging as losing a limb, I can overcome anything.
Interviewer: What advice do you have for others who may be going through a similar experience?
Jodie: My advice would be to take it one day at a time. Losing a limb is a major life change, and it can be overwhelming. But it's important to remember that you are still the same person, and you can still do everything you want to do. Surround yourself with supportive people, and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. And most importantly, believe in yourself. You are capable of more than you realise.
Interviewer: Thank you so much for sharing your story with us, Jodie. Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Jodie: I just want to encourage anyone who may be struggling with diabetes to take their health seriously. It's not always easy, but it's worth it. And to anyone who has lost a limb, I want to remind you that you are not alone. There is a whole community of people out there who have been through similar experiences and are ready to support you.
* Names and photos have been changed to protect the subject's anonymity where requested.