I'd say give it a shot. There is a chance it might not be for you, but you never know unless you try. When I had cancer I went to a support group where everyone cried and it was horrible. You might find that there are a lot of brand new amputees just dealing with their loss and you cannot relate to them. You might find more support here on this site as there are new and old amputees.

Something else to consider is that even though it might not be helpful for YOU, maybe you will make a difference in the lives of OTHERS. Maybe you being there will show other people that it is OKAY and you can live a very fullfilling life. You might gain a lot out of helping others.

Let us know how it goes.

Keep smiling.
Melissa :)

Lynn, I would give it a try. Don't look at it as a way of coming to grips with being an amputee. Look at it this way, look at as an opportunity to be around other amputees which will give you the opportunity to pick their brains for ideas and also that you will have useful information to share with others. It will give you the opportunity to share your knowledge and you may learn some stuff too. I have been an amp for 19 years and I am always meeting new challenges and have questions. These range from prosthetics, to physical issues, to the emotional side of it. I wish I could say that after so many years, that I have gotten it all figured out. My body changes, my lifestyle changes and so one thing I can always count on is change new challenges.

I would have to agree with the comments of Melissa and Rich. Sometimes when you go to a support meeting you get a different persective on your own life...let me explain...about 5 years ago I was one year post amp...and signed up to deliver meals on thanksgiving to families that have a member that is terminal from Aids or other conditions in Phila called Manna,..Well as it turns out the family thing turned out to be me as my one daughter got sick and instead of us all going it was left to me..I drove to Manna feeling sorry for myself..steps..delivering , all alone,,poor, poor me...so anyway I start delivering the meals..I had to deliver meals for 4 families that day..and by the last delivery I drove home with tears in my eyes..I called my wife and told her her how lucky we are..I basically had an ephiany that day..who knows maybe something at that meeting will strike a chord...or maybe you will find you become a source of inspiration for others...sometimes it is not only about us...this comes from a guy that has more toys than Toys r Us..but you may find that the people that attend that meeting are not emotionally distraught, but perhaps looking for a version of "Cheers" a place where everyone knows your name and you can be comfortable...whom knows maybe you may be a future president or coordinator of visits for the organization,,,Maybe Carol has found her future sucessor :)

Well that is my rambing two cents worth..

Good Luck

Rob

Maybe just go and give it a chance? You might gain some new insight on things. You never know; maybe you can "mentor" those, like me, that are still learning to deal with the whole BKA situation.