Ken's Story
Hello my name is Ken -age:44- Bilateral Club Feet.
Married with 4 children none of which have club feet.
Living in New Zealand.
At present I am waiting for a below the knee amputation of left leg.
Let me give you some background: I had at that time all that medical science could offer; multiple surgeries at early age were successful with right foot, left foot did not respond to treatment which left me with a foot with no heel (club).
As a kid I tried to fit in with everybody else but I was noticeably different than the others and therefore a freak-show and well kids can be cruel.
Years of childhood taunting gave me more resolve (and a terrible anger) but also created a secret side, a dual persona whereupon I created a identity that hid my deformity.
Those that taunted me would soon regret their cruelty as I sort to become a mean son-of-a-bitch in my teenage years with drug and alcohol abuse, violence, gangs and crime.
Until about the age of 24 I wore boots with a sock stuffed into the heal (left only). At age 25 I had a Triple Arthrodesis and was measured and fitted with an orthotic that slipped into my boot, for nearly 20 year I have enjoyed the comfort of an orthotic foot support.
Over the last 5 years I have suffered terribly with pain and have had to regulate my lifestyle which is frustrating to say the least. I am also experiencing a bowing of my left leg which has affected it's length which in turn is affecting my hip. I am also experiencing severe arthritic pain. My orthopaedic surgeon gave me 2 options: More surgery to fuse the entire foot or amputation. I'm opting for the later, I've really had enough of the pain and suffering associated with this condition and I'll be happy to see it go. I'm sure my wife and kids will be happy to see me pain-free as years of pain had turned me into a mean bastard and until recently had no idea.
For 44 years I have limped my way across planet Earth, Climbed mountains, a volcano, hiking, tramping, fishing, diving, sports, would never take no for an answer and have been successful in all that I set out to do although I've had to pay the price (pain!!) I sometimes regret that I have been so hard on my physical body.
I don't see amputation as an end but a new beginning with new challenges. My wife of 18 years is loving, encouraging and supportive and has been my strength! (and also my physio) we are ready to move forward together.
To all the parents of children with club feet don't be disheartened or fearful, I've had a great and fortunate life, I've done many things, As a musician travelled the world and seen many places. My club feet have not been a hindrance but rather a motivating force to reach out and achieve, I am a blessed man.
with much regards to all,
Ken
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