A community has raised $12,000 to replace the prosthetic leg of a cancer survivor. Earlier this month, thieves broke into his car and took the custom leg he has relied on since he lost his leg to bone cancer at 14.
RELATED STORIES: Insurance Denies Prosthetic for 9-Year-Old Girl, Claims It’s “Medically Unnecessary”
The theft occurred on December 8 when 20-year-old Atticus Root went out to eat with friends in downtown Portland. Upon returning to his vehicle, he discovered that it had been burglarized. According to NBC News, his uncle reported that the thieves tampered with the steering column disabled the truck, and made off with Atticus’s prosthetic leg as well as his work equipment. Root was disappointed by the theft as he was growing accustomed to his leg which featured a moveable knee and a running blade that aided in his mobility.
At age 13, he decided to amputate his left leg after battling osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer, to stop the spread. His decision led to creating a prosthetic leg that was tailor-made for his body’s specifications, a vital part of his new life, and his ability to work as a welder without the need for crutches. Although he has a spare prosthetic, Root finds it uncomfortable and not suited for his lifestyle.
RELATED STORIES: Employee Allegedly Stabs Company President During Meeting
The stolen prosthetic not only offered physical support but also held significant emotional and financial value, estimated at around $8,000. The Portland police are also providing a $2,500 reward for information that leads to the recovery of the stolen limb.
His uncle started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for a replacement, and the community quickly helped surpass the fundraising goal. “I know life can be tough, but Atticus was just beginning to feel better and get back on his feet. He doesn’t deserve this. If anyone has any other suggestions, we are open to them. And no, rental insurance doesn’t cover it,” his mother wrote on the page.
