Bruce Finds Hope and Purpose After Limb Loss
Bruce’s life was forever changed after being struck by a drunk driver on his motorcycle. Despite severe injuries and the loss of his leg, he found hope and purpose through community support, sports, and public speaking. Bruce became a mentor and advocate against drunk driving, embodying the power of resilience and finding a path forward after limb loss.
The Accident
After his first year at the University of California Santa Barbara, Bruce fell in love with motorcycle riding. He took week-long journeys, prioritizing safety by wearing the appropriate gear and participating in many riding clinics.
In January 2020, Bruce received his certification from the California Highway Patrol to teach motorcycle safety classes. Shortly after, on his way to teach his first class, Bruce’s life changed dramatically. He was hit by an incapacitated driver traveling at 50 miles per hour while crossing an intersection. The incident happened right outside the Encinitas fire department.
“The team quickly attended to me and prepped me for the ambulance. I arrived at the hospital during a shift change and was cared for by four surgeons. I sustained severe injuries, including brain bleeds, multiple shattered ribs, a damaged kidney, collapsed lungs, broken vertebrae, a shattered pelvis, and the loss of my right leg below the knee. I spent two months in the hospital, my first memory being a surgeon informing me that I had lost my leg,” said Bruce.
Road to Recovery
The next nine months were challenging as Bruce transitioned from a bed in his living room to a wheelchair and then to a walker. Once his body healed, Bruce was fitted with a prosthesis and began learning to walk again.
Bruce shared, “The first time I stood with my below-knee prosthesis, I felt whole again and found hope for the future. Before the accident, I was an active person and ran construction sites. My Hanger Clinic prosthetist, Cory Johnson, CPO, helped me find acceptance and learn to walk. I couldn’t have done it without him. Communication with your prosthetist is key to achieving mobility and comfort.”
Finding Support and Community
Support from Bruce’s family and friends was an important part of his recovery.
“Before the accident, my girlfriend, now my wife, and I had been together for five years. During my time in the hospital, she was supportive and stayed by my side. My daughter traveled from overseas and stayed for six months. I was visited by friends, family, and people from work who I thought were acquaintances. It made me realize I mattered,” said Bruce.
Bruce also found support groups helpful during his recovery process.
“I recommend finding a support group that fits your vibe. Getting involved in support groups organized by Hanger Clinic and other organizations provided me with positive and forward-moving support. I now mentor others, answering questions and helping them navigate life as an amputee and understand the identity shift they may experience. I relate to what they are going through,” said Bruce.
Advocating Against Drunk Driving
Determined to document his own experience and that of the young man who collided with him, Bruce aims to dissuade others from drinking and driving. He engages with high school students, collaborates with Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and works with news outlets to highlight the preventable nature of such tragedies.
“I knew I wanted to share my story when I came home from the hospital. I experienced post-traumatic growth, which is different than post-traumatic stress disorder. It is more reassuring, bringing awareness and spiritual change. I knew I wanted to speak publicly, share my experience with others, and remind them of how important it is to not get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. I believe that sharing my story can influence other people’s decisions,” shared Bruce.
Bruce decided he wanted to contact the Department of Corrections and engage in a program called Victim-Offender Dialogue (VOD). He was able to meet with the young man who hit him while he was serving his prison sentence. During their meeting, they shook hands and shared their interconnected stories, fostering understanding and empathy.
Staying Active
After receiving his below-knee prosthesis, Bruce returned to activity, finding fulfillment in working out and participating in sports. He enjoyed testing his abilities and pushing his limits.
“When I was initially injured, it felt like so many things were off-limits. I discovered working out and participating in sports gave me a psychological boost. I play with the San Diego Ducks sled hockey team, traveling to tournaments across the country. I also enjoy swimming and triathlons. Last year, I skied for the first time with limb loss, and surfing is next on my list.
I also participate in the Challenged Athletes Foundation Community Challenge, where athletes call on their strengths to test their abilities and push their limits. Being around others with limb loss at this event made me feel like I was in a place of acceptance. Hanger Clinic’s EmpowerFest did this for me as well. Participating in sports and activities amongst peers with limb loss is truly rewarding,” said Bruce.
Looking Forward
Bruce continues to share his positive message with others.
“I no longer ride motorcycles and instead pour my heart into public speaking. I want to inspire and provide support to others. If my message can positively change the path of someone’s life, then I have succeeded,” shared Bruce.
Request a Free Evaluation
If you or someone you love is looking for personalized care following amputation, get in touch with a board-certified prosthetist at a Hanger Clinic near you.
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