GALLATIN, Tennessee (WKRN) — Autumn Nugent, a 32-year-old woman, faced a life-altering situation when an infection led to the loss of her arms and legs. She is currently seeking funds for a pair of specialized prosthetic limbs known as “Hero Arms.”
In the year 2021, Nugent contracted an infection following a surgical procedure on her arm. This health crisis was compounded by her contraction of COVID-19 during her hospitalization.
Subsequently, Nugent found herself in a critical condition, with temporary hearing loss and multiple failing vital organs. In a bid to safeguard her organs, her body redirected blood flow away from her extremities, resulting in the necrosis of her hands and feet. After spending a week in a coma with bleak prospects of survival (just a 10% chance), Nugent defied the odds and woke up to the harsh reality of her amputated limbs.
Initially facing the prospect of amputation above the knee and elbow, Nugent was devastated by this news. However, upon learning that she would retain portions below the knee and elbow, she resolved to maintain a positive outlook on her situation.
Embracing her “new normal,” Nugent adopted a mindset focused on acceptance and resilience during her recovery journey. Despite the permanent loss of hearing in her right ear, she gradually regained 40% of her hearing in the left ear.
Following weeks of recovery and anticipation, Nugent embarked on a rigorous rehabilitation regimen with a singular goal in mind: to stand up and walk again for the sake of her three children. Her determination to witness her daughter’s eighth-grade graduation ceremony while standing on her own prosthetic feet fueled her relentless pursuit of recovery.
Completing her rehabilitation in a mere two weeks, Nugent amazed observers by swiftly transitioning from assisted walking with bars to climbing stairs, driving, writing, and performing physical exercises like planks.
At present, 34-year-old Nugent aspires to enhance her daily life by acquiring a pair of “Hero Arms.” These cutting-edge prosthetics, tailored through 3D printing technology to match her unique anatomy, operate based on nerve signals in her residual arms. With the ability to articulate each finger independently, these advanced prosthetic hands would empower Nugent to engage in a myriad of tasks, from making gestures like the peace sign to holding objects like pens and pencils. Nugent eagerly anticipates the simple joy of running her fingers through her hair, a gesture she longs to perform once more.
While a portion of the cost for the Hero Arms will be covered by her insurance, Nugent is actively fundraising to bridge the remaining gap of \(8,300, with a modest sum of \)192 raised thus far.
Despite the challenges she has faced, Nugent remains resolute in her determination to share her inspiring journey with others, finding solace and purpose in spreading her message of resilience and unwavering perseverance.