Page:The making of a man (1902).pdf/9

 A crack bicycle rider, both of whose legs have been amputated, one above the knee and one below, pronounces our substitute faultless. He is able not only to mount and dismount with ease but to perform all manner of tricks and fancy riding, doing this as well as his competitors blessed with sound, muscular, natural limbs. Besides, he has a mile track record of 2.37.

Money will not buy happiness, but it will aid in its attainment. Money will not compensate for the loss of a limb, but it will buy a fair substitute if one knows where to procure it.

One having a valuable and delicate watch needing repairs would naturally be very cautious into whose hands it was entrusted. In the event of sickness we are apt to be very careful into whose care we place the patient. Careful inquiry is made as to the reliability of the physician and his experience, whether or not he has been successful, if he understands his business and is honest in his purpose; if his advice will be given in the best interests of the patient, or whether his own profit is of first importance to him.

It is entirely proper to ask similar questions in regard to the makers of artificial limbs; but too often people are careless in the matter, and place the case in the hands of almost anybody in the business, without regard to responsibility or reliability. Thus the remedy secured is often worse than the disease. The strictest investigation should be made. A competent maker should be selected. The case being entrusted to him, the minor details should be left to his judgment, with faith that his experience and thorough understanding of his business will produce the best result.

No single style of limb is suitable for all cases. Appropriate and distinct construction is necessary, that the limb shall meet the requirements of the person who is to be compelled to wear it. Recognizing the truth of this, we have been led to the study of the peculiarities and individual needs of each case presented to us. Our limbs are constructed with such a variety of joints and attachments that each appliance may be accurately adapted to 9