Striding forward: How Peter walked again after losing his leg

In August 2024, Peter Kalil-Zackey (69) developed paronychia - a nail infection in his right big toe. "The infection wouldn't heal because I have Type 1 diabetes. In November, doctors had to amputate my toe."

• According to the Mayo Clinic, diabetes can cause nerve damage and poor blood circulation, which can make it harder for wounds to heal. This can allow even a small sore or infection to spread quickly and damage the tissue or bone, sometimes leading to amputation.

Despite the surgery, the infection spread through Peter's leg.
"Doctors had to operate several times to remove the infection. Eventually, they had to do a below-knee amputation just before Christmas, on 23 December 2024. My doctor worked hard to save as much of my leg possible so that I'd be able to wear a prosthesis and walk again."
Peter battled even more infections and spent time in ICU.
"I was in hospital for months. It was traumatic and painful, but the prayers and support from everyone who knew me, gave me comfort."

Peter begins his journey back to mobility

Before Peter left the hospital, he started physiotherapy and then moved to a physical rehabilitation centre.
"The specialists there were amazing," says Peter. "They knew how diabetes affects healing and made sure my wound recovered properly."
"They taught me how to do daily activities safely and independently, after losing my leg. They started gym sessions with me to improve my strength and mobility. This involved doing everyday tasks, such as hanging laundry and making breakfast. We also kept busy by playing games and building puzzles." When Peter's wife, Mary, had her birthday, he was upset that he couldn't celebrate with her. "My children said, 'Don't worry dad, we'll bring the party to you'. We celebrated with a picnic in the rehab centre's gardens. It was so special and meant the world to both of us."
After four weeks of hard work, Peter was ready to go home.

Taking the next big step

In June 2025, Peter returned to the rehab centre for a prosthesis fitting.
"They used a test prosthesis to measure and check the fit before making my own prosthetic leg," he explains.
"I surprised everyone when I put the test prosthesis on and started walking right away! They couldn't believe a 69-year-old could do that after everything I'd been through. Most people need weeks of therapy before they can walk."
Peter believes a dream gave him the strength to achieve this unexpected outcome. "A week before, I dreamt about my late mom. In the dream, the only way I could get to her was to put on my prosthetic leg and walk to her. And that's exactly what I did."

Determined Peter strides forward with his new prosthetic leg

Once his prosthesis was ready, Peter went back to the rehab centre to learn how to use and walk with his prosthesis confidently.
"I worked hard in the gym to improve my balance and confidence. Before leaving, I had to pass several tests, like being able to bend down, to pick things up from the ground, and get back up again, without falling."
"I was determined to walk properly again - for myself and for the specialists who helped me. They studied for years to do this work, and I wanted to make them proud."
Peter's wife, Mary, says life has changed for the better: "Before the prosthesis, Peter used a wheelchair. It was heavy and hard to manage for both of us. When he finally got his prosthetic leg, it was heavenly. We're both happier, life is easier, and he has his independence back."

Discovery Health Medical Scheme helps Peter every step of the way

Peter and Mary are also grateful for the help they received through Discovery Health Medical Scheme (DHMS).
When Peter was admitted to the rehab centre, he was enrolled in the DHMS Care Coordination Programme, which supports members admitted to rehab facilities with complex medical cases. His dedicated Care Coordinator, registered nurse Silindile Madiba, became a key part of his recovery journey.
Silindile closely monitored his progress, supported his family, and ensured that all the rehab professionals - doctors, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and orthotists - were working towards the same goals. Because she met regularly with the team, any concerns could be addressed immediately, helping Peter build the strength and mobility needed for a prosthesis.
She also handled the clinical and administrative steps behind the scenes: managing authorisations and ensuring benefits were correctly applied, also escalating his prosthesis application as soon as he was ready.
For Peter and his family, having a trusted person to guide them through each stage of Peter's rehabilitation journey made an overwhelming time easier for everyone. And for the Scheme, Silindile's hands-on involvement helped reduce the risk of setbacks, avoided unnecessary hospital readmissions, and kept Peter's rehabilitation on track - giving him the best chance at walking again with confidence.
Mary says, "Everything about the support we received from DHMS was fantastic and made the journey much easier."
Peter adds, "I'm so grateful the Scheme covered my surgeries and prosthesis, and that someone like Silindile could be there to support me."

Peter's recovery aided by a network of support

Now, Peter continues to work on his strength and mobility every day."
"I walk about 30 minutes daily and plan to drive again soon. This won't slow me down. I'll be 70 in 2026 and still moving - better than some of the youngsters at the gym!""
He's deeply thankful for his support network. "
"The doctors, nurses, and rehab specialists were incredible. My wife has been my rock - she keeps me motivated. And all glory to God - I wouldn't be here without God's help."