Mitch
"Extend your boundaries."
Mitch of Seattle, Washington, lost his leg three years ago when he had to make a difficult decision. Continuous debilitating pain from a degenerative condition forced him to conclude that life without his worn-out foot and leg could be more fulfilling and satisfying than the life he had come to know. An avid mountain climber and downhill skier in previous years, the 48-year old engineer for The Boeing Company simply hoped to be able to return to a somewhat active lifestyle with a prosthetic limb.
Not the type to set limits, however, Mitch began bicycling 40 to 50 miles after a long day at work. He was back to skiing within months following his surgery. Others noticed his impressive determination and accomplishments and he soon found himself a role model, helping others with disabilities reach their potential on and off the slopes.
Mitch welcomes the opportunity to share his hard-earned knowledge and searches for any chance to challenge others facing physical hardships to push their limits.
His journey is taking him places he never anticipated.
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Mitch’s lower limb prosthesis includes the Harmony® System, created to address the very common and painful problem of volume fluctuation in the residual limb. This break-through technology is designed to promote natural fluid exchange, which in turn improves linkage and makes the prosthetic limb feel more natural. Mitch also experiences increased proprioception, allowing him to “feel” where his prosthetic limb is in space. In addition, a reduction of shear forces helps protect sensitive skin and reduce injury and pain. Wearers have reported reduced pain, and being able to dramatically increase the amount of time they wear their prosthesis.
Mitch also uses an Otto Bock foot, the LuXon® Max, designed to offer high-energy return and flexibility, delivered by carbon fiber composite materials created for the space industry. His foot was custom designed to match his physical characteristics and activity level.
