As we are now in the Fall season, we at Progressive Foot care have just begun our 5th Annual Holiday Shoe Drive for the Homeless. It is our passion to support the less fortunate. The footwear collected will benefit many individuals at the Grace Episcopal Church in White Plains, NY, and several families in Rockland County through the efforts of People to People, Inc.
Everyone donating shoes is invited to our Holiday Shoe Drive Reception & Celebration in our White Plains office on Tuesday, December 11th, from 5:30pm – 7:00pm. On behalf of everyone at Progressive Foot Care, we hope that you will join us!
Providing footwear for the less fortunate has many implications, especially medical and social. By protecting the feet of the homeless, we can help prevent diseases, infections, and frostbite which may lead to amputations/loss of limbs. The impact of a foot amputation (either partial or complete) can be devastating to an amputee and his family. Research has shown that once a diabetic patient experiences an amputation, there is a 50% chance of a second amputation (on the opposite foot) within five years.
Also, there is a significantly increased energy requirement for the amputee to ambulate, as his body must work harder to compensate for the loss of a body part. Diabetic amputations are much more common than traumatic amputations (those due to an accident). Either way, loss of a foot is a life-changing event that nobody wants to suffer.
The financial impact of an amputation can be staggering. On average, the loss of a limb costs $50,000.00. Additionally, there are many psychological aspects that need to be addressed. Amputee Support Groups exist throughout America to help people cope with their condition. Many hospitals hold regular meetings for these groups. During my residency training in NYC, I founded an Amputee Support Group that reached several individuals in an effort to help improve their quality of life.
Now that you know the serious effects of foot disease and infection, I invite you to donate your used footwear (no holes, please) to help prevent amputations in the homeless. All types of shoes are acceptable, including children’s, and can be dropped off at either the Pomona or White Plains office. The shoe drive completes on December 15th.
Please remember to join us at our Holiday Shoe Drive Reception & Celebration on Tuesday, December 11th, in White Plains, from 5:30pm – 7:00pm. A shoe donation is required for admission. Bring your used footwear and bring your holiday cheer!
Thank you in advance for your support of our worthy cause. Remember, taking good care of your feet can be your first step towards good health. Your feet are the foundation for your body.
Yours in good health,
Dr. Bruce Pinker, DPM, AACFAS, AAPWCA
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Dr. Bruce Pinker, DPM, AACFAS, AAPWCA is a podiatrist located in NYC and Westchester. Follow him on Twitter @Docpinker4feet
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DISCLOSURE: NO CONNECTION, UNPAID, NOT MY OWN
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