An unfathomable choice - your leg or your life

"The work done at Spaulding is extraordinary and the hundreds of patients served here each year are truly lucky to have such a facility available to them."

On December 8, 2010, Tom Leonard's family made the wrenching decision to have a surgeon cut off his left leg, just above the knee. A rapid-moving and severe bacterial infection had invaded his leg and was now threatening his vital organs. Removal of the limb was necessary to save his life.

"Each day since," Tom says, "has been a gift." After he recovered from the surgery, Tom was transferred to Spaulding North Shore, where he remained for 11 weeks, learning how to walk with a new prosthetic leg. Bedridden for many weeks, the first moment he was able to be up and on his feet was a miracle to him.

He has trouble finding the words to describe the care and the new lease on life he received. "It would be difficult for me to even begin to try to describe the wonderful therapeutic care I received in this great facility," Tom observes. "Trying to single out one therapist over another would be like trying to suggest which of your children you love the best. They all have something unique to offer me and to challenge me with."

While at Spaulding North Shore, Tom set a goal for himself: to attend his grandson's graduation from St. John's Prep and walk across the stage with his son and grandson to receive a Legacy Award acknowledging three generations of alumni in one family. Following recovery, Tom did just that.

He is thrilled to be home and back to his busy life as a newspaper columnist and board member of a number of local organizations. Spaulding North Shore helped Tom find his strength and returned him to the family and community waiting for him.

Tom Leonard recognizes Spaulding North Shore as an asset to the community. Support like his is critical to keeping this and every one of our facilities ready to care for and offer strength to anyone who need us.