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From the Editor The focus is on ability--not "disability."
This is the clear message coming from amputees and orthotic
users of all ages. For both youth and adults, disability sports
programs and organizations provide a venue for learning, personal
growth, and making new friends with similar interests and
challenges.
Advances in technology also can improve the quality of life,
increasing chances for success and happiness and making dreams come
true. However, technology comes with caveats: Not everything is
appropriate for everyone. But the goal should be that whatever is
needed is available--in not only componentry, but comprehensive
rehabilitation care--to help the individual achieve the highest
function level and quality of life possible.
Educated, empowered consumers are a major factor in reaching
this goal.
Individually, being educated consumers means being both positive
and realistic. Not everyone can be a champion athlete. What an
individual can accomplish functionally depends on many factors,
including age, fitness, and other medical complications and
conditions. However, exercise, cardiopulmonary conditioning, weight
control, proper nutrition, and following healthcare providers'
instructions are just some areas where consumers can take charge of
their health and fitness for optimal function.
And--being realistic doesn't mean only recognizing limitations,
it also means recognizing possibilities, not closing one's mind to
what's achievable. Some can indeed become Paralympic stars. And
even if not an elite athlete, everyone can be a "star," whether
it's Grandpa taking his grandchildren to the playground, the young
mother taking care of her toddler, a teenager playing hockey, or a
bright-eyed youngster exploring the world from a new perspective in
an RGO or walker. The possibilities are vast. 
Table Of Contents - July 2003
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