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I was lying there on the road, I could not feel my right leg, I took off my helmet, and raised myself from the waist to look at my leg. It was badly mangled. At that moment I knew that the leg could not be saved, I accepted this truth, I thought of my family and a strange calmness came over me… This was what I encountered on that fateful day of my motorcycle accident.
My name is Derick Fernandes. I am 52 years old and I live in Mumbai. I have been an above-knee amputee since 2017 and have been using an advanced artificial limb since then. That accident changed everything for me, and also for my family. Fortunately, it changed us for the better.
My family, friends, and community stood behind me like a rock. They helped in organising blood, helped with finances, searched for artificial limb options, and stayed with me during hospitalisation. I am forever grateful to all of them.
The surgeon in charge of my case was very knowledgeable. He told me, "This is not the end of the world. Many advanced prosthetic options are available, and you will be able to live a near-normal life." After about 4 months of amputation, I was walking again. I now use an advanced prosthesis using German cutting-edge technology and have never looked back since then. I ride a modified bike and recently learned to ride a bicycle. I also have to take care of my elderly parents as well as my teenage kids and my wife has stood like a rock in my life.
Before the amputation, I worked in the advertising industry. But immediately after the accident, I got to work with an NGO that works with vulnerable and marginalised communities and Tribals. Something inside me told me to go for it, and I did! Connecting with these beneficiaries, and listening to their growth stories brings me immense fulfilment.
I reflect on my life without any regrets. Life has given me a second chance, and I am determined to make the most of it!
To my community, I want to emphasise that amputation is not the end. People participate in Paralympic sports and win medals. There are options available to lead a near-normal life. My prosthetic service provider is a German organisation with a national presence.
They also have a state-of-the-art clinic in Mangaluru. If you are seeking such services, please reach out to:
Otto Bock HealthCare
No. 24-16-1354/2 #2 - Basement Floor, Opera Plaza,
Opp: MCC Bank, Nandigudda Village, Jeppinamogaru,
Mangaluru, Karnataka 575002.
Ph: 0824- 2416166 / 0824 - 2973166
Sumit Dubey – Centre Manager: +91 7560989331
Website : www.ottobock.com/en-in
Email : admin.mangalore@indiaottobock.com
Instagram: instagram.com/ottobock_india/
Facebook: facebook.com/ottobockindia/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/ottobockinindia
