Ryan:
Linx Limb System

The Turning Point: Life After a Motorcycle Accident

Ryan’s life took a dramatic turn after a motorcycle accident that resulted in the loss of his leg. Reflecting on that time, he shares, "Being newly disabled is incredibly humbling and filled with insecurity. It’s something you never truly prepare for."

Rediscovering Mobility: "I Can Walk Again"

For Ryan, the simplest yet most profound change since receiving his Blatchford Linx prosthetic system is being able to walk again. "The simplest answer here is walk," he says. "However, simply being able to walk again has opened so many other doors. I can walk with my hands-free of crutches, catching, carrying, and being more involved in social activities."

One of the most cherished moments of his newfound mobility is something many might take for granted: "The number one thing is the fact that I can now walk while holding my girlfriend’s hand. I hadn’t done that for two years because crutches bound me."

Life at Home and Work: Confidence Restored

The positive impact of the Linx system extends far beyond walking. At home and in the workplace, Ryan feels more engaged and independent. "There are so many positive influences the Linx system has added to my life," he explains. These everyday moments—carrying groceries, navigating stairs, or simply standing tall—highlight the difference.

Ryan Watters IMG 7259

A Dream to Inspire

Ryan’s journey isn’t just about reclaiming mobility and inspiring others. "My hope is to bring more awareness to the adaptive community and showcase that, with proper equipment and knowledge, whatever goals you had before trauma, they can still be attained."

The First Appointment: From Intimidation to Trust

Starting the journey to a prosthetic wasn’t easy. Ryan recalls his initial appointment: "The first appointment with my clinician was very intimidating. Fortunately, John Rice of Wilmington Orthotics & Prosthetics, alongside Leon Owens of Blatchford, made me as comfortable and confident as possible." Over time, that initial apprehension evolved into trust and gratitude.

Aesthetics Matter: "It’s a Good-Looking Tool"

One of Ryan’s favourite features of the Linx system is its appearance. "I know it’s a functional piece of equipment and really is a tool, but it sure is a good-looking tool," he says. "That’s important to so many of us who are already in our heads about how we look without a limb."

“Being newly disabled is incredibly humbling and filled with insecurity. It’s something you never truly prepare for.”

The Cost of Being Disabled

Ryan doesn’t shy away from addressing the financial challenges of life with a disability. "Being disabled is so incredibly expensive, and I don’t think the general public is aware," he says. It’s a reality many in the adaptive community face daily.

Looking Ahead: Walking Hand in Hand

Ryan's story is one of resilience and hope. With the Blatchford Linx system, he’s not just walking—he’s walking into a future filled with possibilities, hand in hand with his loved ones. He says, "Whatever goals you had before the trauma can still be attained."

Ryan’s journey showcases the transformative power of mobility and the role of advanced technology in restoring movement, confidence, connection, and independence.