Name: Sean Fitzgibbon
Occupation: Orthotic Fitter, Prosthetic Technician, Kayak Guide and Champion Surfer
Type of Amputation: Right BK
Surfer champion, Sean Fitzgibbons will tell you that the Venture has made him "sure footed." He is the 3rd time consecutive and current East Coast Surfer Champion, a 4-time consecutive National Champion and has been awarded the Buddy Pelletier Surfer of the Year award.
Although, it didn't slow him down as an infant, Sean was born with a birth defect, which caused his right leg
not to form properly. At 3 years old, Sean underwent a right leg, below the knee amputation, which would allow
him to walk properly with a prosthetic foot. Over the years, Sean has tried wearing many prosthetic feet,
including a SACH foot, Carbon Copy 2 foot, various Endolite feet and a TruStep foot. Although he enjoyed the
function of the TruStep, it wasn't until he tried the Venture foot that he was fully satisfied.
"I would have found a way to do everything. But, now with the Venture Foot, it's an amazing difference,
an overall improvement for me."
A key feature on the Venture foot is Stride Control, which allows the foot to be easily adjusted to meet the demands of the user. Sean works in the prosthetic and orthotic industry, so he is able to adjust the feel of his foot. "Stride Control works very well for me. If I'm a little sore one day, I can adjust the foot to have easier or stiffer movement."
During the week, Sean works as a Licensed Registered Orthotic Fitter and Prosthetic Technician at St. Petersburg Limb & Brace. On the weekends, he guides kayak trips, for up to 18 people. As a guide, he is also responsible for loading and unloading the kayaks.
"The Venture name suits the foot well. You truly can venture anywhere with this foot."
Sean also enjoys mountain biking, camping and hiking.
|
