Peer Mentors
Hayden Bailey - Illinois
Hayden lost both legs above the knees in 2013 due to a single car accident. Almost six months post injury, Hayden was living his life as a full-time prosthetic user utilizing "stubbies". As he built up his strength and endurance, many of his daily activities became much more efficient and even enjoyable as he fully incorporated his prosthetics into his daily life routine.
Hayden is very thankful for the many bilateral above knee amputees that helped to encourage and inspire him to become a successful prosthetic user. Now it is his mission to "pay it forward" to as many bilateral above knee amputees as he can reach. Initially, he was told that his life would be greatly limited by his "disability", but what he discovered is that any limitations are self imposed. Anything is possible with excellent prosthetics and instruction combined with determination and commitment.
Accomplishments: Driving without hand controls, shed hunting, hiking, running, 4-wheeling, working full-time as a union pipe-fitter (this was his job before he was injured)
Kyle Hannon - Virginia
In September 2014, Kyle was a railroad switchman at a steel mill when he was unexpectedly struck by a rail car while at work. The momentum dragged him under the rail car about 50 yards before coming to a stop. His extensive injuries would result in the amputation of both legs very high above the knees.
Kyle was in great physical shape but learning to walk again would prove to be an extreme challenge. But his motivation would be his newly born daughter and he focused on getting out of the wheelchair as soon as possible.
The added challenge of having very short residual limbs would make walking even more difficult. But with a unique approach to socket design, he would have the tools to begin the process of living his life as a full-time prosthetic user. Today, he has several different prosthetics that he uses for different activities. The microprocessor controlled knees are very functional for everyday challenges, but the "stubbies" are very handy for cutting and carrying tree branches around his home.
Accomplishments: full-time prosthetics user, carrying his daughter, driving without hand controls, running, spending time on the lake
Seth Alexander - Oklahoma
Seth was 16 years old when he lost both legs above the knees in a tragic car accident. Seth was active in many high school sports which helped him to focus his strength and attitude towards utilizing bilateral above knee prosthetics.
Seth is an ABC Certified Prosthetic Technician and helps fabricate advanced prosthetic technology at Dream Team Prosthetics. Seth left his wheelchair in April 2012 and became a full-time prosthetics user! He has shared his message of hope and inspiration at various public events and school assemblies. He is dedicated to making peer visits with other bilateral above knee amputees to help them navigate their physical challenge.
His passion is participating in long distance running events and enjoys working out in the gym at least three times a week. Seth will provide insight into a healthy lifestyle that can greatly benefit a full-time prosthetic user.
Accomplishments: competing in half-marathons, driving without assistive devices, rock climbing, gym workout