%0 Journal Article
%T Amputees Unanimous: A 12
%A Catrinna Amorelli
%A Kathleen Yancosek
%A Ruth Morris
%J Prosthetics and Orthotics International
%@ 1746-1553
%D 2019
%R 10.1177/0309364619836027
%X Alongside physical impairment, psychosocial health issues may arise after amputation, impacting quality of life. Traditional psychosocial care models provide services in a linear fashion, with limited supports upon discharge. A novel program entitled Amputees Unanimous is a 12-step program provided for amputees by amputees. To shape the final content of Amputees Unanimous by identifying personal beliefs and opinions of healthcare professionals and amputees. Qualitative design utilizing a phenomenological approach. Five focus groups were held: four with amputees and one with healthcare providers. A phenomenological approach shaped the inquiry of the lived experience of limb loss in relation to the content of Amputees Unanimous. Three themes emerged: (1) accepting limb loss, (2) peer inspiration, and (3) regaining prior level of function. Limb loss may alter one¡¯s self-image, both physically and psychologically, having a profound effect on how an individual copes throughout his or her lifetime. The content and delivery format of Amputees Unanimous could be tested for effectiveness as a program tailored to facilitate coping after limb loss and to provide encouragement, support, and hope for the future of amputees. A dynamic, amputee-led, mutual help program may provide individuals with limb loss a place for encouragement, support, and optimism for the future
%K Limb loss
%K amputation
%K psychological
%K psychosocial
%K acceptance
%K phenomenology
%U https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0309364619836027