Chris

Chris has a unique understanding of the challenges facing the orthotics and prosthetics patients that he treats each day at the University of Michigan Health System. After all, it wasn't too long ago that he was in their place.

In 1988, while riding his motorcycle, Chris was hit head-on by another vehicle. His injuries were severe and doctors were unable to save his leg.

While the news was devastating, Chris was determined to live a normal life. And he knew that his best chance to achieve that goal was to come to the UMHS Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation's Orthotics and Prosthetics Center.

During Chris' recovery and subsequent therapy, he developed friendships with the staff and doctors in the Orthotics and Prosthetics Center and also a keen interest for the work that they do.

Before long, Chris adjusted to his new prosthetic leg and was able to pursue a career in manufacturing and engineering. He also began to do volunteer work in the Orthotics and Prosthetics lab.

Soon his experiences - his accident, recovery, manufacturing/engineering career and volunteer work – gave him an entirely new direction in life.

Today, Chris is a full-time member of the Orthotics and Prosthetics team.

While it began in 1936 as a mere brace shop, today the Orthotics and Prosthetics Center is a leader in orthotic and prosthetic technologies and cares for amputees from across the globe.

And Chris is on the cutting edge of that technology professionally and as a patient. In fact, Chris was one of the first patients in Michigan to be fitted with a C-leg, a computerized leg that allows for a smoother and more natural walk.