The Value of Community: WakeMed Amputee Group Encourages Meaningful Connections Both in the Hospital & Beyond

On the third Wednesday of every month, a special group gathers at WakeMed’s Raleigh Campus to talk, laugh and learn from each other. All group members have experienced amputation and are searching for connections with others who have been through the same type of life-altering event. The Amputee Group, as it is now called, has become one of the Rehab Hospital’s most successful programs, creating its own small community based upon sharing fellowship, questions and advice.

“Through this group, we show patients who have experienced amputation that we are part of their lives, even after they leave the hospital,” says Beth Soto, LCSW, a WakeMed Rehab case manager who was tapped to lead and grow the group 13 years ago. “As rehab professionals, we have seen firsthand how important it is for patients who’ve experienced a life-changing event to connect with others who have gone through the same thing, and we want to create a safe place and positive environment for them to do so. Many times we have helped amputees who are feeling hopeless develop a positive attitude by giving them a look at what life can look like well beyond amputation.”

Beth says it’s an intimate group, with attendance ranging from six to 16 participants each month. 

“We consistently have a good group of people who offer each other genuine camaraderie. The message we all try to convey is that life will be different, but they can do this. Modifications can be made so that amputees can reclaim their quality of life. It’s really special when existing members can give that advice and show new members that life does get better.” 

All Are Welcome

The Amputee Group is open to anyone who has experienced amputation, and members participate during many stages of recovery – some are still in the hospital receiving acute care and waiting for a prosthetic, and some are former patients who have been using a prosthetic for several years. However, being a former or current WakeMed patient is not required – members come from word of mouth, too.

Rich Klink is an active member who heard about WakeMed’s Amputee Group from his prosthetist – and was curious enough to attend a meeting before undergoing his below the knee amputation surgery back in 2022.

“I didn’t know what to expect, but I was absolutely amazed at how open and supportive everyone was from the moment I arrived,” Rich explains. “Joining really eased my tension about having the amputation and I can honestly say this group has changed my life. I learned so much, found answers to all my questions, and found a mentor and a real friend who took me under his wing and has supported me through my entire journey. I don’t even feel like I have a disability. We play golf together, go to the gym and I even participated in a 5K run – Beth and the group even showed up to support me. I feel so fortunate to have found such a strong community.”

Gaining More Knowledge

In addition to open discussion and fellowship, members are enlightened by guest speakers who share information about life after amputation and using a prosthetic. Speakers have included prosthetists, sports figures, experts in neuromuscular rehabilitation, nutritionists, nurses who specialize in skin care and pain control specialists. Beth coordinates these speakers, and she is also supported at each meeting by April Gallons, a WakeMed inpatient rehab physical therapist who offers a therapy perspective. April answers questions and gives advice on topics such as balance, flexibility and strengthening, especially for patients who are awaiting a prosthetic.

“Beth has done an amazing job of growing this program into something spectacular,” adds April. “Together, our goal is to continue to spread the word throughout the community.” 

In her years as group coordinator, Beth has taken many steps to enhance participation and appeal to more members, such as incorporating a Q&A session for experienced members to share with those who are newer to the group. She also sends out weekly reminder emails and helps organize additional socials and celebrations.

“April and I attend each meeting to help guide discussions in the right direction, but the members do most of the talking and engaging,” says Beth. “It’s wonderful to see them laughing, enjoying themselves and getting the chance to step out of their reality for a while. Some even feel comfortable enough to remove their prosthetic legs, and many get together outside of the group.”

Inspiration & Hope for the Future 

In addition to encouraging long lasting bonds, Beth and April remind members that they can always count on WakeMed for continued guidance, connections – or even physical or occupational therapy when needed.

“This group really isn’t about WakeMed – it’s about the people who show up,” Beth says. “We provide the meeting space and the programming – and we’re here to help attendees navigate whatever challenges they may have. But, most importantly, it’s about community, relationship-building and inspiring hope. It’s a real privilege to be a part of it, and it’s so fulfilling to witness how they lift each other up.”

This article is reprinted from Reconnections.