Nick Siecko

How has being an amputee changed your life?
Being an amputee has its challenges but overall, it has changed my life for the better.  I started doing things I hadn’t done in a while like playing the clarinet and biking.  It taught me to appreciate just ‘living’ every day.

Who has been your biggest inspiration in helping you achieve success?
Without a doubt, my wife, Marianne. She did research on prosthetic legs while I was in the hospital.  She also called Ossur to see what prosthetic companies in our area had the RheoKnee.  Having this knowledge before I made any decisions was invaluable.

What advice would you give to others who are new to the amputee community?
Give it hell...push yourself!  It's just another challenge in life but it should not ever stop you from doing things you want to do.  Keep going!  Joining the Amputee Coalition of America was also very helpful.  We attended several conferences and the seminars for amputees and caregivers were extremely informative.  Becoming a member of an amputee support group is also very beneficial.  When I first started working with Tim he arranged for me to meet other amputees.  Your doctor, physical therapist and prothetist are great helpers but talking to other amputees is very important.

List some of your hobbies:
Biking - on a trainer indoors and a catrike outdoors, playing in a woodwind ensemble and concert band, traveling around the world, golfing, fishing, astronomy, learning to play chess, kiting, going for walks (with and without my Segway).