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Unstoppable Spirit: Barbie’s Journey and her UniLeg Adventures

Writer: Stefania FranchiStefania Franchi


The Birth of a Pro Surfer

Barbie’s journey to becoming a pro surfer is truly remarkable—not just because she was born to surf, but because she didn’t achieve this dream until after her amputation. Losing her leg in a traumatic boating accident didn’t extinguish her passion for the ocean; instead, it fueled a deeper connection to the water. Barbie adapted her technique, mastering the art of kneeling surfing, proving that her spirit and love for the sport were as strong as ever.

While Barbie doesn’t surf with the UniLeg, this innovative prosthetic plays a crucial role in her adventure days. Its lightweight, durable design means she can enjoy the sun and sand without worrying about her prosthesis getting wet or damaged. This peace of mind allows her to focus entirely on what she loves without the added stress of maintaining her prosthetic leg.



Barbie’s Indomitable Spirit

Before her amputation, Barbie was already living an active lifestyle filled with surfing, running, hiking, and soccer. The accident that led to the loss of her leg in 2017 marked a significant turning point in her life, presenting her with the immense challenge of finding a new normal. The road to recovery was anything but easy, with multiple surgeries and the difficult task of learning to walk again. Her first prosthesis was a heavy, cumbersome burden, adding to her frustration as she navigated this new reality.

But Barbie’s indomitable spirit never wavered. She pushed through these challenges, determined to reclaim her active lifestyle.


The Costa Rica Adventure

One of Barbie’s most memorable experiences with the UniLeg took place in Costa Rica. As she prepared to surf, the tide suddenly rose, sweeping her UniLeg into the ocean. For many, this would have been a moment of panic, but not for Barbie. She laughed as she watched her prosthesis float away, confident that it would be just fine. A passerby helped retrieve it, and soon after, at the end of the day, Barbie strapped it onto the back of a motorcycle and continued her island adventure. The UniLeg’s durability and versatility gave her the freedom to live in the moment, something she never thought possible with her previous prosthetics.



Lightweight, Balanced, and Aesthetically Appealing

When Barbie first encountered the UniLeg, she was impressed by its modern, nature-inspired design. Unlike other prosthetics she had used, the UniLeg stood out for its balance and stability. Its lightweight construction made a noticeable difference. The UniLeg’s fast and efficient socket fitting process was another pleasant surprise, a notable improvement over her past experiences with other prosthetic clinics.

Barbie also has a special UniLeg in pink, a color she specifically requested. This customization adds a personal touch, reflecting her vibrant personality and making the prosthesis not just a functional tool, but a true extension of herself.


Practical Peace of Mind in Every Adventure

For Barbie, one of the most significant benefits of the UniLeg is the balance and the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that her prosthesis is durable enough to withstand getting wet or dirty without damage is a huge relief. Moreover, the UniLeg's lower cost and the option to easily reprint it if lost or broken reduce the anxiety that often comes with using more expensive, difficult-to-replace prosthetics. This practicality is what Barbie values most—how the UniLeg seamlessly fits into her adventurous lifestyle, allowing her to enjoy her passions without unnecessary worries.



A Reliable Spare Leg

Barbie sees the UniLeg as a dependable spare leg, and also ideal for kids or amputees just starting their journey, thanks to its lightweight, easy-to-use design and durability. While it’s not her primary prosthetic, it’s perfect for specific situations—like beach outings or environments where her main prosthesis might be at risk of damage. The UniLeg’s friendly design and customizable options make it an appealing choice for those who need a secondary prosthetic that’s both functional and visually engaging.


The confidence to embrace new adventures.

Barbie’s story is a powerful reminder that life’s challenges don’t have to hold us back. With the right tools and a resilient spirit, we can continue to pursue our passions and live life to the fullest. The UniLeg has become a companion in Barbie’s journey, offering her the freedom to explore and the confidence to embrace new adventures.


Join Barbie and others who refuse to be limited by their circumstances. Discover how the UniLeg can support your journey and help you live your passions to the fullest.

 
 
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