The countdown has officially begun for my overseas trip. In just over three weeks, I’ll be flying out for a three-week holiday through parts of Asia and Europe. I’m incredibly excited, but as the date approaches, the logistics are weighing on my mind.
During a catch-up lunch with friends yesterday, someone asked if I had any concerns. Honestly? My biggest worry is the transition from the extreme heat of Thailand to the extreme cold of Sweden. As a below-knee amputee, I have to be hyper-aware of my health—specifically regarding my residual limb and my intact leg. We even joked that it was a “farewell” lunch just in case I disappeared down a hole in the ice! While I don’t actually plan on putting myself in that situation, the physical toll of these environments is a real factor.
My schedule is quite extensive, but I’ve been careful to build in “buffer time.” Fatigue is still a daily reality for me post-amputation, and managing diabetes adds another layer of complexity. I’ve learnt that as long as I factor in a rest every day and don’t over-exert myself, I can manage well.
The climate isn’t just about comfort; it’s about management. For example, during the recent 40°C heatwave in Sydney, my blood sugar levels spiked, and I had to spend the afternoon resting and cooling down. Transitioning from that kind of heat to sub-zero temperatures will be a challenge, so the next few weeks are dedicated to very careful planning.
Between travel prep and recording new episodes of the Amputee Limb Loss and Limb Difference Podcast, it’s a busy time—but a very exciting one.
