her best as a professional to put parents at ease, but she always recommends the support of others going
through the same thing. As an example, Artesi says organizations such as
Camp No Limits, which she regularly
volunteers for, create a network of
support for not only amputees, but
families as well. The camp offers
therapeutic programs with specialized
professionals, including physical and
occupational therapists, prosthetists
and adult amputee role models while
offering five programs each day. Specific group sessions for siblings and
parents are held to address the needs
of families living with individuals with
limb loss.
“You’re going to learn a lot more
when you meet with parents going
through the same thing,” says Artesi.
Artesi explains there are four levels
of assessing what components are
suitable for an individual. On the “K”
scale, children are a four, meaning
they need something that can withstand the everyday wear and tear of
child’s life.
“It’s recommended, until say 15,
that they are in a heavy duty, strong
component – nothing too technologically advanced or expensive because
children will need to be re-fitted with
new pieces as they grow,” she says.
“The older you get, the be