Pete:
EchelonER

Before the Amputation

For years, Pete Davis lived with complications from Charcot disease, a condition that progressively damaged his left midfoot. Eventually, it developed into osteomyelitis, and limb salvage was no longer possible.

“Prior to the amputation, I had a difficult time walking without help from a walker or knee scooter,” Pete recalls. This made life especially difficult for Pete, given that his job requires numerous travel days through airports, walking around cities, and commuting. Pete knew he needed to make a change to keep living life the way he wanted.

Meeting His Prosthetist

Once his surgery was scheduled, Pete met with his clinician at Southeastern Prosthetics. That appointment changed everything.

“He walked me through every step of what life after amputation would look like,” Pete says. “We talked about my goals, my lifestyle, and what I hoped to get back to. It made the whole process feel possible.”

Together, they built a plan that included fitting Pete with the Blatchford EchelonER, a hydraulic ankle-foot designed to adapt to real environments, slopes, and varied terrain.

“My clinician is a critical member of my healthcare team and is instrumental in making sure my Blatchford foot continues to meet my current and future lifestyle goals.”

Getting Back on His Feet

The difference was immediate.

“The EchelonER enabled me to walk for long distances, climb stairs and stand for long periods of time.” Around the house, Pete found himself doing tasks he once thought were behind him.

“I can do housework, cook meals, mow the lawn, all without the use of an external aid such as a scooter, walker or crutches.” Pete smiles. In addition to being able to get back to what he likes doing at home, Pete has been able to continue his job and career with no setbacks. The Echelon ER has made his travels a lot easier, and he can confidently take on every day and every trip.

Looking Ahead: Drums, Mountains, and More

Now that Pete has regained independence, he’s pushing toward new goals. Drumming has been his top passion and hobby, and what seemed like something he maybe had to give up, he’s set his eyes on playing even better than ever before.

“With the hydraulic motion of the EchelonER, I’m hoping to build more speed and agility when I’m playing the drums,” he says. “And I want to hike more, really get back into the mountains and build my endurance.”

For Pete, these aren’t dreams. They’re next steps.

His Favorite Feature

When asked what he loves most about his prosthesis, Pete doesn’t hesitate:

“The range of motion. It adjusts to whatever I’m walking on - stairs, hills, uneven ground. I feel stable and secure, and that kind of confidence changes everything.”

The Echelon ER is the perfect fit for Pete and his needs because of exactly that. It was designed specifically for people who move on uneven terrain and sloped ground, and who are always on the move.