Defying limits, embracing healing: Chris Prange-Morgan shows us that wellness is about finding strength in the climb and discovering freedom in every challenge.
By Rick Bontkowski
As we step into 2025, the start of a new year offers a fresh canvas to set goals and embrace growth. For the limb loss and limb difference community, wellness extends beyond physical health, it’s a journey of emotional, mental, and creative well-being.
Setting realistic and meaningful goals can help build confidence and create a sense of purpose. Focusing on small, attainable milestones can make a significant difference. Whether walking an extra block with a prosthesis, exploring adaptive yoga, or participating in a virtual support group, these steps celebrate progress without overwhelming expectations.
Mental wellness plays a crucial role in the amputee experience. Journaling, mindfulness practices, or seeking therapy can help process the unique challenges of limb loss, such as grief or public perception. This year, consider adding “self-compassion” to your resolution list. Embracing imperfections and acknowledging every victory, no matter how small, can transform the way you approach each day.
Creativity is another powerful outlet. Whether picking up a paintbrush, learning to play an instrument, or trying your hand at photography, artistic expression can be healing and empowering. The act of creating something uniquely yours reinforces the idea that life after limb loss can still be vibrant and full of possibilities.
In a recent episode of The AMP’D UP211 Podcast, host Rick Bontkowski interviewed Chris Prange-Morgan, an author, speaker, and advocate who became a trauma survivor after a life-changing accident in 2011. Her journey of healing, both in mind and body, exemplifies the resilience and creativity that can emerge from adversity.
As we look ahead to 2025, remember that wellness is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Celebrate individuality, lean on the strength of your community, and allow yourself the grace to explore what wellness means to you. After all, a new year is not about perfection, it’s about progress, and that’s something worth celebrating.
Rick Bontkowski, a Chicago native and amputee, is the host creator of The AMP’D UP211 Podcast. A drummer, cyclist, and advocate, Rick shares the stories of people with limb differences to inspire, inform, and challenge perceptions worldwide. Contact info: Ampup211@gmail.com, ampup211.com, youtube.com/@theampdup211podcast6, instagram.com/rick_bontkowski.
