Prosthesis customization: A new look at life - Interview with Sophie

U-Exist: Hello Sophie, could you briefly introduce yourself?

Sophie: My name is Sophie, I'm 49 years old, I've been married for 27 years, and I have two sons aged 20 and 25. I was born with agenesis of the right arm and started wearing a prosthesis at the age of 3 or 4. So I've practically always lived with a prosthesis.

U-Exist: How do you see prostheses evolving over time? 

Sophie: Looking at some of the older prosthesis models with clamp mechanisms, you get the impression that they looked like impractical post-war prostheses. Fortunately, prosthetists have made considerable progress since then. Personally, my current prosthesis is much simpler, but I still have problems with my elbow, and I think there's always room for improvement in terms of manufacturing.

U-Exist: When did you discover the idea of customizing your prosthesis? 

Sophie: I saw a U-Exist poster in a prosthetist's shop showing a woman wearing a customized prosthesis, and I thought it was beautiful. Although no one had ever suggested this option to me, and being someone who loves recycling and upcycling, I had asked my prosthetist to give me some fabric scraps she had in reserve to add to my prosthesis, and then I discovered the U-Exist catalog, and realized I had an unlimited choice. Today, I couldn't do without it!

U-Exist: Was this customization a revelation for you? 

Sophie: Yes, for me, my prosthesis is no longer just a medical device, it's become almost a fashion accessory. It's like choosing colorful pants or fancy tights. 

U-Exist: How has customization changed your life? 

Sophie: When I wear a short-sleeved outfit and my prosthesis is more visible, people are less surprised. It doesn't give the impression of being a "fake arm". When I meet people in winter, and they see me in summer with my personalized prosthesis, they don't immediately ask what happened to me. The approach is different, and there's less discomfort on both sides. It's as if I'm less perceived as having a handicap, or at least a less hidden one. Today I'm on my third U-Exist prosthesis, which I usually keep for 1? to 2 years. I always look forward to changing it for a new design.

U-Exist: Do you understand people who'd like to take the plunge into personalization but don't yet dare? 

Sophie: I think the way I acquired my prosthesis, from birth, is very different from that of someone who has suffered an accident or illness. Radically changing the appearance of your prosthesis must be an extra step, especially if it greatly alters your appearance. For me, above all, it's a fun experience that allows me to vary my pleasures. I'm proud of my prosthesis and don't hesitate to show it off.

U-Exist: What advice would you give these people?

Sophie: All you have to do is try. If you don't like it, you can change it, or even cover the prosthesis with a more neutral pattern. U-dresses can also be an alternative. The advantage is that it's never permanent; you can change at any time.

U-Exist: With regard to the perception of disability in general, do you think mentalities are moving in the right direction? 

Sophie: I think society is gradually becoming aware of the importance of changing its perception of disability, even with events like the Paralympics. There's a greater openness, especially when it comes to physical disabilities. The more we talk about it and the more we show these realities, the better. I know that every time I can testify to my own experience, I'm showing that you can live happily with a missing limb. 

U-Exist: Do you think the Paralympic Games open the way to greater sensitivity? 

Sophie: Yes, the Paralympic Games help to raise public awareness of the challenges faced by people with disabilities, and highlight innovations and opportunities for improvement, such as wheelchairs. Even if athletes and celebrities with disabilities are inspiring examples, disability is always present in everyday life, and it is important to highlight the role of strength of character, of those around us, and of the way others, as well as healthcare professionals, look at us.

Any final words for our readers? 

Sophie: Don't be afraid to add a little color to your life!