Scott gears up for 10k challenge

LOSING a limb could have devastating and life- changing consequences.

Third-year medical student Scott Stevens knows the realities more than most after having his lower right leg amputated at the age of 13.

But, later this month Scott will be joining thousands of runners taking on the Swansea Bay 10k run.

The 21-year-old had to learn to walk again after losing his lower right leg following the development of a cancerous tumour on his ankle.

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Scott was a keen rugby player in his younger days and received a knock to his ankle which resulted in swelling rather than bruising.

He said: "We went to look for medical help and it was far more serious than we thought."

Scott was at Bishopston Comprehensive School at the time and effectively missed around two years of school as he chose to have his right leg amputated below the knee to improve his chances of survival.

He is now a student at Bristol University and said losing his leg was a big shock.

He added: "I think my parents were more aware than I was when it happened.

"It was something that was so surreal that you just deal with it on the spot.

"It is something you have got to meet head on and tackle it rather than let it tackle you."

Scott's leg was amputated at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital in Birmingham and he received chemotherapy at University Hospital Llandough in Cardiff.

The student began his recovery in a wheelchair before progressing to walking with a stick and eventually walking independently.

He said: "My amputation has given me drive and determination.

"I appreciate what I have much more, and I see it as an advantage, as it makes me try harder and stick at things which I find tough."

Earlier this year Scott ran the London Bupa 10k, which followed part of the route of the Olympic marathon.

He is also a patient at the Artificial Limb and Appliance Centre (ALAC) at Morriston Hospital which makes and maintains replacement limbs to suit patient needs.

The centre currently supports 1,200 patients.

Peter McCarthy, prosthetics manager at ALAC, said: "The service we provide makes a massive difference to the lives of our patients. They are able to have jobs, carry out everyday tasks such as housework or walking the dog, and also take part in sports."

rupert.hall@swwmedia.co.uk

01792 514597