Kathy Vail, a resident of Prince Edward Island, endured severe pain for seven years following a minor foot injury. The pain, reaching an unbearable level of 25 on a scale of 1 to 10, escalated over time despite various medical interventions. Kathy’s condition, diagnosed as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), led to excruciating symptoms like burning and stabbing pain, affecting her daily life significantly.
Despite trying different treatments, including medications, nerve blocks, and manipulations, Kathy found no lasting relief. When a doctor suggested that amputating her right leg had a 70% chance of eliminating the pain, Kathy seriously considered the option. Her husband, Tom Vail, recalled her desperation during flare-ups, where she would express a desire for amputation due to the relentless pain.
CRPS, an invisible inflammatory disorder, often arises after an injury and presents challenges in diagnosis due to its complex nature. Kathy’s journey with CRPS began after an incident at work in 2018, where a falling fire extinguisher caused a minor ankle injury. Despite initial X-rays showing no fractures, the pain persisted and worsened, eventually leading to a torn tendon diagnosis.
The search for relief continued with surgeries and treatments, but the pain persisted, impacting Kathy’s ability to work and enjoy activities she loved. The psychological toll of losing physical abilities due to CRPS was evident, affecting her mental well-being. The uncertainty of CRPS and the lack of predictable outcomes added to Kathy’s suffering.
After a long struggle, the possibility of amputation was raised by Dr. Cai Wadden, offering Kathy a chance at a pain-free life. Following thorough consideration and support from her family, Kathy underwent a below-the-knee amputation in August. The procedure was successful, and Kathy is now free from the debilitating pain that plagued her for years.
With determination and faith, Kathy is on the path to recovery, transitioning from a wheelchair to a walker as she heals and prepares for a prosthetic leg. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for others battling similar conditions, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and seeking the right medical support.
Kathy’s journey, marked by pain and resilience, is a testament to the strength of the human spirit in overcoming adversity and finding a path towards healing and restoration.