Three years ago, Bob Aims faced a difficult decision.

After years of circulation issues and a non-healing wound on his left foot, the longtime healthcare leader knew it was time to consider the next step. Following careful conversations with his care team and extensive research of his own, Bob elected to undergo a below-the-knee amputation.

"I wanted to be more capable and able," Bob said. "I knew my quality of life wasn't going to get worse and perhaps would get better."

After undergoing surgery at WellSpan York Hospital, Bob spent two weeks at the WellSpan Surgery & Rehabilitation Hospital recovering and rebuilding his mobility.  

"The people there were really great," Bob said. "It was a successful rehabilitation.”  

Today, Bob uses a prosthesis and walks with a cane, but he doesn't let that slow him down. As he approaches his 75th birthday, he stays active in his community and enjoys the independence he worked hard to regain.

Giving back after recovery

While Bob considers himself fortunate to have experienced a smooth recovery, he knows many people face uncertainty after limb loss. That's why he values the support, encouragement and camaraderie he continues to find through WellSpan's amputee community and beyond.

For several years, he has participated in the amputee support group at WellSpan Surgery & Rehabilitation Hospital, connecting with others who share similar experiences.

"It's just a bunch of regular people who are very active and interested in their communities," Bob said. "They just happen to be missing a limb."

He also serves as a peer visitor through the amputee coalition, meeting with patients as they begin their recovery journeys and volunteers in educational programs that help students better understand life with a prosthesis.

Discovering new opportunities through adaptive recreation

One of the ways the support group connects outside of its monthly meetings is through adaptive recreation events organized by the rehabilitation team. These experiences help anyone who wishes to participate build confidence, stay active and connect with others in a welcoming environment.

Recently, Bob joined fellow support group members for an adaptive archery clinic.

An experienced archer since childhood, Bob brought his own bow and enjoyed helping newer participants discover the sport.

"It's always fun talking to people who are less experienced," he said. "Everybody was very friendly and supportive."

The clinic, held in partnership with local archery experts, welcomed participants with a variety of physical abilities and experience levels. For Bob, the event was about more than hitting a target. It was another reminder that recovery doesn't mean giving up the activities that bring joy and connection.

"Rehabilitation extends beyond the hospital setting,” said Rachel Kerr, recreational therapist at WellSpan Surgery and Rehabilitation Hospital. “Adaptive recreation gives individuals the opportunity to apply the skills they gain during therapy in meaningful, real-world experiences that support both physical function and emotional well-being. Bob's story is a powerful example of that continued progress. Whether participants are discovering a new activity or reconnecting with a lifelong passion, these opportunities help build confidence and remind them that life after limb loss can still be full of possibility."

These programs are part of the comprehensive rehabilitation experience available through WellSpan Surgery & Rehabilitation Hospital, a Magnet-designated hospital recognized for nursing excellence and high-quality patient care.

 

Bob is joined by other participants from the adaptative archery clinic joined with care professionals from WellSpan Surgery & Rehabilitation Hospital in June 2026.

Join us for adaptive recreation opportunities  

The adaptive archery clinic is just one of many opportunities available across the WellSpan community. Adaptive recreation events provide a welcoming environment for individuals living with limb loss to try new activities, build confidence and connect with others who understand their experiences.

Interested in discovering the power of community, movement and support? Join us at our next adaptive recreation event featuring adaptive golf in September or the next “Limb-It-Less Amputee Support Group” available in person and virtually the first Thursday of each month from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.