Travelling with a prosthesis: Marlene's experiences and tips
Marlène van Gansewinkel, was born with an upper and lower leg difference. Marlène uses the Pro-Flex® Terra and the Cheetah Xtreme
‘You can discover the world in your own way, as long as you listen to your body and go out prepared.’
Since childhood, I’ve loved travelling and going on holiday with my parents to places such as France, Italy and Germany. Since then, I have had the opportunity to see quite a bit of the world - sometimes for sport, but often just for myself. In just the past two years, I visited Japan, America and Indonesia.
Good preparation is half the battle
What I learnt from a very young age is that it is important to travel well-prepared, and travelling with a prosthesis requires just a little more preparation. My suitcase contains a few spare parts as standard: extra bolts, an extra sleeve and sometimes even an old prosthetic foot. I also take into account the climate at my destination, as heat or humidity can affect my residual limb.
Skin and residual limb care
Because the skin around my residual limb is fragile, I always take some supplies with me to prevent problems or treat them quickly. Think extra stockings for when the volume of my residual limb changes, blister plasters, pimple patches for small inflammations, sterile needles, disinfectant and regular plasters. All of these care products help me travel with confidence.
Listening to your body
Load capacity is a major concern for me. I know I can comfortably walk several days in a row, but I also know that this increases the risk of residual limb pain. This is why I plan my trips with variety: an active day is followed by a quiet one. By keeping this balance, I give my body a chance to recover, and the risk of unpleasant symptoms is much lower.
“‘By keeping that balance, I give my body a chance to recover, and the chances of unpleasant symptoms are much lower.’ ”
Wonderful memories
Despite the extra preparation, there have been so many special moments that I would never have wanted to miss. Surfing in Spain, hiking through the mountains of Switzerland, Austria and Norway, and diving in the clear waters of Indonesia. Travel is absolutely possible, as long as I listen carefully to my body and set off prepared.
One of my most beautiful experiences so far was diving near Bali. The tranquillity underwater and the colourful underwater world made a big impression. I felt completely at ease. So, getting my diving licence is now high up on my to-do list.
Conclusion
Travelling with a prosthesis does require some extra attention, but it is completely possible and worthwhile. With the right preparation, good care and a bit of flexibility, you can discover the world in your own way.