I have been contacted by a combat Vietnam Veteran who lost his left leg
below the knee in 1969, along with significant scarring. He sounds like a
very reasonable and thoughtful man. The prosthetic care he has received
from the VA throughout that time, unfortunately, sounds horrific. He hops a
large percentage of the time and usually uses forearm crutches as well. He
has been developing spinal degeneration problems over the past several years
and believes it is caused by his mobility situation. He is petitioning the
VA board in his area to (a) increase the percentage of his disability for
income purposes, and/or 2) get a written acknowledgment that when he needs
medical intervention for his back problems, the care will be provided and
linked to his original injury.
The VA Board has asked him to produce any case studies or other medical
evidence that establishes a link between living with an amputation for a
prolonged period and having back/spinal problems as a result. If anyone can
point this gentleman in the right direction or offer direct assistance,
please reply to me and I will forward him any messages I receive. Thank you
for taking the time to consider this request.
Peter Thomas
