For Peter Leimkuehler’s patients at Union Orthotics & Prosthetics, finding a sense of belonging after amputation can be an uphill battle. “The biggest challenge I see is they feel alone. They don’t see other people like them,” Peter says. To help patients connect to a community who understands, Union created the adaptive fall fishing classic at Allegheny RiverTrail Park two years ago – one of two patient events they host every year.
For Peter, a great place for his patients starts with a welcoming space like Allegheny RiverTrail Park. “Even our most able and agile patients have a hard time with stairs as amputees,” says Peter. “The ramp makes it so easy. They don’t have to worry about how they’re going to get down to the dock to fish. They can do it on their own, and it promotes that independence.” Peter sees first-hand that creating welcoming spaces in our community benefits everyone. “It’s good to have spaces that are accessible to everybody. Because to build community, you need to have everybody there. That’s why the park is the perfect place for things like this,” Peter shares.
Peter recalls a patient he met shortly after they had learned to walk with their prosthesis. The patient barely spoke, relying on their spouse to be their voice and support system. Over the last year, the patient has gotten involved with a slew of programs, including a sled hockey team for individuals with physical disabilities. The last time Peter saw the patient, it was like a different person. “They couldn’t stop talking about how to get people involved. They wanted every patient to know they can do these things, too,” Peter smiles. For this individual and many others, the park has become a great place to find community and uncover their strengths and passions. In the uphill battle to find a sense of belonging, Peter says, “Events like (the adaptive fishing classic) are one step on a ladder for our patients to keep climbing up.”
