What Do You Wish Your Loved Ones Understood?
I recently asked all of you: What do you wish your loved ones understood about your daily life as an amputee?
I got hundreds of comments—powerful, raw, beautiful. You shared things like how draining a simple step can be, phantom pain that no one sees, the planning that goes into getting out the door, how mental health and pain often go hand in hand, and how frustrating it is to be seen as “inspirational” rather than just real.
Here are some of the most common things you said.
What Many Amputees Shared
Why It Matters
When loved ones understand these things, the ripple effect is powerful. Relationships shift. Greater empathy kicks in. It reduces the emotional load amputees carry. It opens up space for support, honest conversation, and real connection.
What Loved Ones Can Do
Ask what kind of support the amputee actually needs—rest, help carrying something, patience, perhaps silence.
Acknowledge that even on “good” days, there can be hidden exhaustion or pain.
Avoid assuming what someone is okay with—compare less, ask more.
Respect boundaries. Some days we want help; some days we want to figure things out alone.
Be patient with language. “Inspirational,” “strong,” “overcoming” are sometimes meant kindly—but they can carry pressure, guilt, or feel dismissive when “just being me” is enough.
Now, Your Turn 🗣️
If you’re reading this and nodding so hard your neck is sore, I want to hear from you. Drop a comment below and share:
One thing your loved ones don’t understand that would help if they did.
If you could teach people one thing about living as an amputee, what would it be?
For partners / friends / family reading this: What are you hoping to understand better?
Let’s fill this comment section up—not just with stories, but with honest truths that build understanding. Because when we share, we heal.
Thank you to everyone who opened up when I asked. I see you. What you shared matters, and it’s real. Let’s keep doing this, together.
— Angelina / Adaptive Amputees
