Two and a half years ago, while I was a freshman in college, I contracted a form of bacterial meningitis known as Meningococcemia.  The disease cuts off circulation to the body, beginning at the extremities.  I was in the ICU for two weeks on a respirator, in a drug induced coma, and received multiple blood transfusions.  I was not given a high chance of survival.  But fortunately, I pulled through.  As a result of the disease, both of my feet were completely gangrenous.  During my four month stay in the hospital, I learned that the only option was the amputation of both of my feet below the knee.  As a 19 year old girl, I was completely devastated and confused.  I could not imagine how I would be able to return to a normal life without my feet.  My family and friends reassured me that they would find out every option involving amputation, and find me the best.   And they did just that.  Through a local prosthetist, they found out about Dr. Ertl and the Ertl Procedure.  After much consideration and research, we became confident that the Ertl procedure was the only way to go.  So, in September of 2002, my family and I flew to California to have the amputations done by Dr. Ertl. 

I can honestly say that I feel so fortunate to have had the Ertl procedure as a primary procedure.  I now travel with the company ALPS as a patient advocate, which allows me to come into contact with many other amputees.  I have heard countless stories about their having phantom pain and pain while using their prostheses.  It is so hard for me to relate, because I have never had any of those problems.  I work and am a full-time college student, so I am on my prosthetics at least 14 hours a day without taking them off.  I experience absolutely no pain or discomfort!  I KNOW that the reason for this is my Ertl amputation. 

I have absolutely no idea why this procedure is not standard.  The Ertl procedure is by far superior to the approach that is done regularly today.  I know that my quick recovery and return to an active life is due to the Ertl procedure.  I am in the process of getting running feet, and when I do, I know I will be successful because I had this procedure.  I can only pray that more surgeons begin to see how vital this technique is to the amputee.  If you are considering the Ertl procedure, DO IT!  It will allow you the most comfortable and active life as an amputee.

Thanks to Tony Barr and the Barr Foundation for spreading awareness about the Ertl procedure and its numerous benefits. 

Elizabeth Garrett