Van Massenhoven says War Amps approached him as a part of the CHAMP program to use his experience to pass on essential and possibly life-saving lessons to other kids.
"We hope through these messages, and people become more aware of the potential of the harm to happen. Even though your child may be disappointed or if you ask them to stay on the deck, rather than coming onto the lawnmower. It's so worth it to prevent this sort of experience from happening to your family because those few minutes of fun are just not worth it."
Life changed completely for Van Massenhoven when he lost his limb. Living in a remote community and heading to a new school without middle school friends can be challenging enough, says Van Massenhoven, but heading into high school after a month in the hospital and being an amputee was incredibly stressful. Meeting people for the first time and having a significant physical difference, caused him much anxiety. However, his accident also caused stress to those closest to him.
"It was a large adjustment, not just for me but for my family and parents. They were going through all this trouble, as a parent does when something that traumatic happens to their child. [CHAMP] was also a resource for my parents for information and set them up with other parents who have gone through this and have come out on the other side."
Luckily, Van Massenhoven says War Amps provided him with avenues to get information. It also includes peer support, regional seminars, and financial assistance for the cost of artificial limbs.
Van Massenhoven is now a regional representative for War Amps and works to support local CHAMP families and other amputees and to continue to share the message of safety so kids can avoid split-second life-changing accidents.
Wed, Apr 24, 4:00 PM
Manufacturing, Full-time
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