Tony’s wife recalls the fear she felt and couldn’t believe the news.

“Tony was not angry or negative with this experience, but I was scared. But I soon felt reassured because we were provided with a whole support system of doctors, nurses, and staff,” says Lisa.

Tony would need three lifesaving operations and was put on antibiotics to ensure the gangrene would not spread in his body.

“Dr. Armstrong, Dr. Kalina, Dr. Dzaja and the whole team were incredible with Tony and with our entire family,” recalls Lisa. “From the physiotherapy team and nurses giving us updates, they went over and beyond to ensure we had a roadmap and knew what to expect every step of the way.”

For Tony and Lisa, it was how the entire team took care of their family that made their experience one they would never forget.

“It wasn’t just a doctor or just a nurse, it was someone who truly cared and that’s the way everyone was with us. We felt like we were in safe hands,” says Lisa.

What felt like an initial bleak situation turned into one of hope.

“I could never have imagined this whole experience happening to me. But the overall experience of feeling supported – it made me confident,” says Tony. “This is a new chapter in my life.”

Seventeen month after his amputation, Tony still feels as positive as ever about his journey. “They say it takes a village to raise a child and the same can be said for an amputee’s recovery,” reflects Tony. “It is fascinating how in a blink of an eye your entire life can change.”

He continues to praise the team at JBH for their ongoing support in his recovery by creating a treatment plan for his health, function, and providing an outline and steps towards physical and psychological rehabilitation.

“My road to recovery is not over but I am forever grateful for the care that my family and I received from Joseph Brant Hospital. My daily routine looks different than it did 17 months ago, I am improving every day and am always taking a new step forward in my recovery.”