Katie's Story
i have club feetI'm 21 now, happy as a successful graphic designer. I was born with severely clubbed feet, and had several surgeries as a baby, the last one being at 12 years of age. My feet are still stiff and painful every morning when I get out of bed, and become almost unbearable if I'm on my feet for more than couple hours. I remember crying when I discovered that I could likely pass this deformity--and the pain--on to any children I might have. The worst part is the self-consciousness I've had to deal with throughout my school days--questions about why I limp, why my foot is strangely shaped, etc. It's hard trying to "hide" and explain my feet to the guys I date. I've never been able to fully participate in sports, and can never feel completely comfortable about wearing shorts due to my thin calves. It's hard trying to feel attractive and sexy when you can't wear the same clothes and shoes, especially high heels, as other women do. Sandals and flip flops are out of the picture. It's strange that the small things like that are what make living with club foot the hardest. The physical pain I still experience every day is just one facet of the larger problems my feet give me. It's good to finally find somewhere where people can relate.
I'm sure in the end the ordeals that come with having club feet have actually made me stronger. Throughout life I've striven to learn as much and become as talented intellectually and artistically as possible, since I was hindered physically along the way. I'm happy with where I am now. If any of you have had similar experiences, let me know.
Added on 06 Oct 2008