Chris:
Elan IC

Finding Freedom in Every Step: Chris Egert on Life with His Blatchford Elan IC

For TV host Chris Egert, movement is essential. After a lifetime of injuries and surgeries led to amputation, Chris was determined to regain his mobility and with the help of Blatchford's Elan IC, he’s done just that. The Elan IC’s advanced microprocessor controlled hydraulic ankle technology has provided Chris with the freedom to move confidently in his day-to-day life and work, whether he’s filming on set or enjoying time outside of his career.

A Journey Through Injury to Amputation

Chris’s story begins as a college basketball player, but years of injuries and surgeries ultimately led to infection and amputation. "I had a lifetime of injuries, surgeries, and an infection that ultimately led to my amputation," he reflects. "It was a tough transition, but I’ve come a long way."

The Perfect Fit for His Active Life

When it came to finding the right prosthesis, Chris needed a foot that would support his busy, active lifestyle. "My prosthetic offers me the perfect range of motion to walk comfortably in my day-to-day activities," Chris shares. "It’s perfect for the type of exercise I’m able to do."

Thanks to the Elan IC, which uses a microprocessor to control a hydraulic ankle for added flexibility and support, Chris has been able to adapt his prosthesis to a variety of activities from filming to exercise with ease.

One standout benefit is its versatility, especially when it comes to footwear. "One of the most important things it does for me is allow me to wear a variety of shoes. Because of my job, I’m on-camera from head to toe, and my feet are often shown. I love that I can wear dress shoes, work shoes, tennis shoes, and loafers and move freely without needing to adjust for differences in height."

The foot's hydraulic ankle allows for smooth transitions between different footwear, making it ideal for Chris’s on-camera job, where appearance matters as much as mobility.

Enhancing Daily Life and Work

Beyond comfort, Chris has found that the Elan IC enhances his daily life in meaningful ways. "The functionality of this foot is fantastic," he explains. "I can walk with ease on flat surfaces, stand comfortably, and even navigate stairs more easily than with other feet I’ve used in the past."

This is due to the microprocessor controlled hydraulic ankle’s adaptability, which provides a natural response to movement, ensuring stability and reducing strain on his body.

The user-friendly charging interface and overall design improvements have also made Chris’s experience even better over time, showing how Blatchford’s technology evolves to meet the needs of users like him.

Looking to the Future

Chris’s aspirations extend beyond his current role. He dreams of using his platform to help others with mobility challenges. "Someday, I’d like to host a TV show for people with mobility issues who still want to travel," he shares. "It’s a challenge for many of us, as there are so many obstacles in the way. I believe my prosthetic will help me achieve this dream."

With the support of his Elan IC, Chris feels ready to take on this new challenge with confidence.

The Clinician’s Role in Success

The success Chris has experienced with his prosthesis is also a result of his strong relationship with his clinician, Michael Tillges. "The clinician at Tillges is a caring, compassionate person who runs a family prosthetics business dedicated to helping us live fuller lives," Chris says. "He was happy to work with me on this product and can easily make any necessary adjustments using the cutting-edge technology available."

This partnership ensures Chris’s prosthesis remains tailored to his needs, offering continuous support as he adapts and grows.

Living Better, Moving Better

Reflecting on his journey, Chris is grateful for how far he’s come. "It’s not just about walking better; it’s about living better. And my prosthetic lets me do that."

Chris Egert’s story is a testament to how the right prosthesis can not only restore mobility but transform life itself. With the Elan IC, Chris has reclaimed his independence and is now ready to embrace the next chapter of his life, whatever it may hold.