A THOUSAND MILES: September 2019

My road came to an unexpected halt on November 9, 2010.

That morning, I was bicycling to work when a garbage truck turned across a city bike lane. I was in that bike lane.

A team of trauma surgeons saved my life, but they had to amputate my left leg. My body and life were forever changed.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.

As I learned to walk again, I measured my recovery in steps and then miles. Over time that journey grew into something more -- a way of being in the world, wherever I go.

I am a person of ability and disability. I travel in the space between. These are my postcards.

Sunday, September 1, 2019

Inside Out

Mile Marker 7650:

I'm on one foot, balancing my hip along the edge of a boulder.

My backpack is sprawled on the rock next to me, its insides spewing out everywhere: harness, climbing leg, shoes, socks, towels, liner, alcohol spray, and more. It's all I can do to keep from dropping my Allen wrench into the ravine 100 feet below.

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Hi! I'm REBECCA.

I've walked more than 10,000 miles as an above-knee amputee.

I learn as I go -- navigating ability, disability, and life -- one step at a time.

Along the way, I mentor new amputees, teach students, rock climb, bake cookies, plant gardens, and travel the world.

I also write.

I wouldn't get far without my bionic leg -- or my amazing pit crew: family, friends, medical teams, therapists, prosthetists, and YOU!

Thanks for walking with me every step of the way.

To know me better, click here.