More than three years since a calamitous nightshift accident at work that resulted in a leg amputation, Tom Perry (35) from Great Ayton in Middelsborough is regaining his mobility and has even returned to his recreational activities of rock climbing and bouldering.
Thanks to his own determination, supported by the latest prosthetic technology, specialist rehabilitation and litigation services, Tom is literally back on his feet and determined to reach new heights, becoming a member of the GB Paraclimbing team on his rehabilitation journey.
Tom’s current activity levels are all the more incredible, given the injuries he sustained, as he explains, “Both of my legs were crushed into a four inch gap by an eight tonne piece of machinery at work. I was trapped for more than an hour, until the emergency services were able to release me.” He continued, “I remained conscious throughout the rescue. Thankfully the containment meant that I wasn’t losing blood, which certainly helped me to survive.”
Unfortunately, due to a severed artery, four days after the accident Tom’s right leg had to be amputated above the knee, in addition to the insertion of a condylar plate and screws into his left leg. As Tom recalls, “Prior to the accident I led a very active life, fell walking, climbing and I enjoyed my manual job, so I was devastated and was uncertain of my future.”
A doctor friend of Tom put him in touch with Thompsons Solicitors, who specialise in personal injury cases. As their solicitor David Robinson explains, “Tom had received his initial prosthetic provision at his local disablement service centre, but he was struggling. We were very keen to obtain optimal rehabilitation services for Tom, so referred him to Pace Rehabilitation for a clinical assessment.”
Pace prosthetist Howard Woolley and physiotherapist Carolyn Hirons assessed Tom to see if improvements could be made. As Howard recalls, “Tom advised us that he rarely wore his prosthesis, lacked confidence and was primarily dependent upon elbow crutches.” Carolyn adds, “We felt that significant improvements could be made, primarily with the provision of a prosthetic knee that would provide stability and reliability, thereby improving his confidence and ultimate prosthetic use. We also gave consideration to a subsequent prosthesis that would benefit him with his recreational activities.”
In the meantime Tom focussed upon his fitness and strength, he recalls, “I entered the hospital weighing eleven stone and left two stone lighter. So I spent a lot of time exercising, doing pull up’s and rope climbing as well as joining a local climbing club, where I received excellent support and made some good friends including an amputee climber from America called Ronnie. Everyone’s encouragement really helped me psychologically.”
David was able to secure an interim payment to enable Tom to proceed with Pace’s recommendations and undergo a 2-week trial on a Genium microprocessor knee. As Carolyn recounts, “Tom immediately engaged with the sophisticated knee and with some intense physiotherapy sessions, he quickly became a very able prosthetic user.”
As Tom confirmed, “The new leg was a revelation, coupled with Howard’s meticulous attention to detail, meant that I was very happy with the trial.”
At this time a waterproof version of the knee, the Genium X3, became commercially available. Tom said, “With my outdoor pursuits, not having to worry about getting the leg wet was perfect for me, so I decided to proceed with Pace’s provision and ordered the X3.”
Tom has continued to progress and is able to utilise Pace’s new clinic in Newcastle upon Tyne, close to Tom’s home, for ongoing prosthetic support and physiotherapy services.
With his regained mobility, Tom enrolled at college and recently passed MIG 1 welding course and hopes to further his learning. As he explains, “We were a bit concerned that the electromagnetic transmissions from the welding equipment may affect the microprocessor knee, but with reassurance from the manufacturers it has proven not to be a problem.”
Looking further ahead, Tom hopes to return to swimming and travel. As he summarised, “Having the right equipment has opened doors for me. I can consider a career and resume my outdoor activities. I plan to go to the USA to climb with Ronnie. That will be a real milestone in my rehabilitation.”
As his prosthetist, Howard has been delighted to assist Tom, reporting, “Tom has made remarkable progress and it is amazing to see what current technology can do to significantly improve someone’s quality of life. Working with Tom has been a real pleasure and it is very gratifying to see him do so well.”
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