Robin’s story
It was really great! After eight years of struggles, a world opened up for me. First, I was given four hours of time by two instrument makers. The warden locked the front door and we had the whole place to ourselves. Full attention, where else can you find that? At the end of the morning I just walked loose on two test prostheses. I had a smile from ear to ear. I could walk again! And that after eight years of problems with my sockets. My day couldn’t go wrong! And every time I think about that day, a smile comes to my face.
You had problems for eight years?
Yes, in 2011 both my legs were amputated above the knee. After that, an incredible search for good prostheses began. The previous instrument makers where I was a customer were unable to make them for me. In those eight years I’ve been to two instrument companies, had twelve sockets for my right leg and in the end I couldn’t get me to walk. And then you come here and suddenly you are standing on two well-fitting sockets. Bizarre.
You could immediately walk well with it?
Yes, that was the most surprising thing. The socket immediately felt good. It’s a different kind of socket. This tube is less high in your groin, making it much easier to sit. You do not rest on your sit bone, but get stability from the pressure of the liner around your stump. You have to get used to that, but that went very quickly for me. You have much more freedom of movement. My colleagues did not know what they saw! They also thought it was very special at work, some colleagues spontaneously gave me a hug. I walked again! I love it and it really brightens me up. I really felt seen at Protec. I didn’t feel like a number, but a person.
Robin walked after eight years with two fitting leg prostheses!
How are things going now?
I’m now going to follow walking training with Frank Dik. That’s part of the service. I also find that very special. And my instrument maker Kas even comes to have a look, despite his busy schedule. They are involved, knowledgeable and take their time. That makes the difference!
What do you think is the added value of Protec?
Turnkey service. You come, they take their time, explain a lot, make your prosthesis and you leave. How customer-friendly is that!
We are only happy when you are
"It’s all handled in a very helpful and friendly manner. The communication with the prosthetist is excellent. They work in a very customer-friendly and service-oriented way. I am listened to and seen, and they truly act according to what I want and need. We work together to figure out the solution that suits me the best."
Read Henk's story
"I’ve now been a prosthesis user for half a century. For many years, I functioned quite well with my prostheses. I am a visual artist and a teacher, I lead an active life, and I have a job that requires me to stand. I’ve also always traveled a lot. However, I often suffered from sores in my groin, but I kept going. I simply want to do things and not always be focused on my prosthesis, which can limit me."
Read Hilli's story
"Our son Lucas has been wearing the Talee helmet for over two months now, and so far, the experience has been amazing! Lucas loves seeing his orthotist every time we have a check-up. We would definitely recommend this helmet to any parent who is about to start using a correction helmet for their child."
Read Lucas's story
