Marc's story
Marc Cleaver, 71, a retired distribution supervisor, experienced below-the-knee amputation from complications of diabetes not once, but twice. As a married father of two daughters and a grandfather (with another grandchild on the way), it was important to him to remain as mobile as possible.
Having to endure a double amputation has not been easy. “I lost both of my legs because of wounds on the foot with gangrene setting in and poor wound healing,” said Marc. He had an amputation in 2012 and went to Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation (KIR) - Saddle Brook for rehabilitation and prosthetic training.
When Marc began to experience the same symptoms, he went to Valley Hospital for treatment where he underwent an angioplasty on his left leg to help circulation and a transmetatarsal amputation, a partial amputation of the foot. Unfortunately, his foot was unable to heal from the surgery, and the decision was made to perform another below-knee amputation. Post-surgery, Marc faced significant challenges, including difficulties with walking, using the bathroom, showering and climbing stairs.
Having had a positive experience at Kessler for his first amputation, Marc chose to return for initial rehabilitation as he healed and later for prosthetic training.
Marc’s physician-led team of therapists focused on a comprehensive plan that addressed prosthetic management, transfers, strength, balance and endurance. Physical and occupational therapies were crucial in his progress. Not only did his therapists help him build the strength to walk using both prosthetics, they taught him how to navigate stairs, care for himself and showed him how to get off the floor if he fell.
“The team at Kessler was incredible,” Marc said. “They got me into the prosthetic leg right away, and I’ve been walking and improving ever since. Because I had already adapted to my right leg prosthetic, I picked up quickly what I needed to do for the left.”
Family played a pivotal role in Marc’s recovery. His wife was his emotional rock and participated in family training sessions to ensure a smooth transition home. “She was very excited to see me walking and doing stairs,” Marc said.
Marc’s hard work and the dedication of his rehabilitation team allowed him to achieve his goals. “I met all my goals,” Marc proudly stated. “I can dress myself, walk with a walker and do stairs with both prosthetics.”
In addition to his therapists, Marc said the nursing staff and aides where friendly and supported him with good humor during both of his stays. Looking ahead, Marc is excited about spending time with his grandson at home and welcoming a new grandchild to the family.
As he prepared for discharge and reflected on his experience, Marc offered advice to others facing similar challenges: “Have a good attitude and put in all your effort. If you work hard and work with the therapists, you can work towards your goals.”