American Orthopedics Aids Katrina Victim

Among the many stories of loss and devastation brought about by Hurricane Katrina are also those of survival and hope for a brighter future. Such is the story of Hung Lam.

Few can imagine the horror in New Orleans as levees failed, the city flooded, and thousands with no means to evacuate were left behind. Now imagine trying to negotiate the swift currents of floodwaters as a transtibial amputee. This was the situation for 29-year-old Vietnamese immigrant Hung Lam as he and friends desperately sought safety from rapidly rising water. To make matters worse, Lam, a member of the Vietnamese Olympic bicycling team when he lost his leg at age 17 in a tragic accident, was wearing a prosthesis originally made for someone else. The prosthesis had been given to him after that person's death by a family member and had, of course, never fit properly. Lam and his friends eventually found refuge from the flooding, but the prosthesis was swept away in the process.

Lam's story was picked up by local news stations after he arrived in Columbus, Ohio, to stay with family members in the aftermath of Katrina. This led to American Orthopedics' involvement and the offer of a new, properly fitting prosthesis at no cost to Lam or his family. Zachary Ruhl, CP, LP, and Brian Weaver, CP, LP, successfully fitted Lam, who was extremely grateful, with his new prosthesis and an Aqua limb in late October. Two locking liners were donated by Ossur, an Advantage DP foot by Otto Bock, Dermatos® skin by Alatheia, and the Aqualimb by Endolite.

On the day he was scheduled for delivery of his new prosthesis, Lam arose at 3 AM to prepare a five-course Chinese lunch for the entire staff at American Orthopedics to express his gratitude. He is currently back in Vietnam visiting his wife and young daughter, whom he eventually hopes to bring to the United States. He has had offers of employment in Columbus when he returns and is looking forward to his new life there.

American Orthopedics Aids Katrina Victim

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O&P JOBS

Position Open for a Certified Orthotist

CPO/CO or Board-Eligible

Certified Prosthetist Orthotist (CPO)

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American Orthopedics Aids Katrina Victim

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Related posts:

Facts Behind BOC Resignations Remain Unclear

American Orthopedics Adds New Associates

American Orthopedics Adds New Associates

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Certified Prosthetist Orthotist (CPO)

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