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Van Harden: When An Accident Almost Took His Foot, Methodist Stepped In August 15, 2007 |
 Van’s Story: “I was using my riding mower. It started to tip over and I used my left foot to try and stop it, but my foot was pulled under the deck. In just a second, I suddenly had a very deep leg and ankle wound from the still-moving blade. I was bleeding badly. I literally hopped to the house and then my wife and I drove as fast as we could go to Methodist’s ER. I even had to place my foot in a bucket, because I was bleeding so badly.It took three surgeries and several months of care to fix my foot and ankle. Several wonderful surgeons from The Iowa Clinic and orthopedic specialists from Younker Rehabilitation worked with my primary physician to get my foot and ankle working again. I had to have skin grafts and put in time in the hyperbaric chamber to help my tissue grow back. Near the end, I was told that three of my four doctors first thought I would lose my foot – but I didn’t. Today I ‘m walking comfortably. I’m missing part of the heel bone of my foot and I use special shoes to help compensate. I’d never been in the hospital before in my life, but if I ever have to go again, I’d want the same team with me. These people knew what they were doing and did their very best for me. They saved my foot, they may have saved my life…and I’m still very, very grateful.” |
