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By the Hanger Clinic
Living with a Prosthesis • Patient Stories • Prosthetics • Upper Limb

On August 6, 2022, Ciera’s life was forever changed in a car accident. Waking up to the realization that she lost her arm, Ciera plunged into a world of uncertainty and sadness. Then, she found support and inspiration at EmpowerFest, an annual event for people with limb loss and limb difference hosted by Hanger Clinic. Now, Ciera shares her story to bring awareness to her experience as an amputee and share the power of community.

Ciera returns to Brookdale Community College to continue her journey to become a respiratory therapist.

Awakening to a New Reality

That day will forever live in Ciera’s memory. When she woke up in the car wreckage, Ciera instinctively reached for the door handle, only to discover she had lost her arm. It was an overwhelming moment.

“I had one semester left at school. You want to talk about hitting rock bottom; that’s where I was. I spent most of my time hiding my amputation,” said Ciera.

Overcoming Isolation at EmpowerFest

The aftermath of the accident was difficult. Ciera felt isolated and ashamed of her amputation. She tried to hide her amputation in the photos she posted on social media and felt a struggle to maintain a sense of normalcy.

At EmpowerFest, Ciera met Kevin Caroll, MS, CP, FAAOP(D), Vice President of Lower Extremity Prosthetics, and found a much-needed support system.

“I planned to stay in the background, be quiet, and just observe what was going on. There was a seat open next to me. Kevin Caroll took that seat. He passed me the microphone and told me you are next,” said Ciera.

As Ciera shared her story with the other attendees at EmpowerFest, she decided it was time to share it with the world on social media, too.

“I wanted to normalize being an amputee. We are individuals like everyone else. EmpowerFest gave me a community,” said Ciera.

Empowering Others

After EmpowerFest, Ciera met with prosthetist Jamie Mauro, CPO and Upper Limb Specialist Matt Mikosz, CP. She was fit with a prosthetic arm and returned to school at Brookdale Community College, continuing her journey to become a respiratory therapist and opening up a whole new world of opportunities.

Ciera shared, “I did not realize how much attending EmpowerFest, meeting the clinicians at Hanger Clinic, and getting my prosthetic arm would change my life. This experience has taught me that life does not end with an amputation. In fact, it can be a new beginning. I would love for someone to attend EmpowerFest like I did, to hear me, see me, and understand all life has to offer after amputation.”

Ciera is now passionate about sharing her story and helping others facing similar challenges. Her goal is to inspire individuals to overcome adversity, connect with a supportive community, and embrace their unique journeys.

Diversity Statement: Brookdale Community College fosters an environment of inclusion and belonging. We promote a safe and open culture, encourage dialogue respecting diverse perspectives informed by credible sources, and uphold the virtues of civil discourse. We celebrate all identities with the understanding that ultimately, diversity, equity, and inclusion cultivate belonging and make us a stronger Brookdale community.