My name is Allan, and I am a 52-year-old truck driver from Griffith, Australia. I lost my leg in July 1993 in a work accident when I was 23 years old. I was very active before my accident, as I was involved in football, boxing, and keeping up with my two children.
I was rushed to Wagga Wagga Hospital, where my doctor told me they could try to save my leg, which would result in countless surgeries, or we could choose to proceed with amputation. After being in the hospital for a few days, I developed Gangrene, and with the support of my doctor, we decided to amputate. I remember thinking, “I’m young; I’ll bounce back.”
After my amputation, I was determined to get back to work so that I could support my partner and children. I pushed through and went back to work after three months. I was introduced to Dave Howells at APC in the mid-’90s and have been with APC for close to 25 years. Dave pushes me if I need to be pushed, and this has made me feel supported by APC.
I now see Alex at APC Northmead, who has helped me after a 20-month break from work caused by a staph infection where a part of the back of my leg had to be removed.
I have been truck driving for 33 years and have travelled all around Australia. I enjoy seeing Australia through my work and sharing photos from the road to send back to my children
and grandchildren. It hasn’t been an easy journey, but I have remained positive throughout the process. My message to other amputees is to stay positive and keep a smile on your face.
