04/07/2025
Patient Spotlight:
Tom Jalinski — Finding Purpose After Limb Loss
Some journeys begin not with a single step, but with the courage to stand again—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. For Tom Jalinski, that journey began in 2017 when he became a left below-knee amputee. Just a few years later, in 2020, he lost his right toes and the stability of his foot. After decades of battling bone infections, vascular disease, and ongoing illness, Tom faced more than just physical setbacks—he faced the challenge of rebuilding an entire life.But as Tom will tell you, his story isn't about loss—it's about purpose.
The effects of limb loss extended far beyond mobility. Tom had to step away from a fulfilling career in construction and confront the emotional toll of losing physical independence. Although his marriage remained strong, his social world shifted. He found himself rebuilding, not just his health, but his sense of identity and connection.
And that’s exactly what he did.
Through incredible resilience, Tom transformed his challenges into advocacy and support for others. He founded the Holistic Thriving Community, an online space dedicated to helping people facing serious health challenges live fuller lives through holistic wellness practices. He also launched Path to Purpose, a media project sharing the real-life experiences of amputees. This initiative has already gained traction across podcasts, television, and print media—amplifying stories that too often go unheard.
Tom’s not just building a path for himself—he’s paving one for others. Today, he:
-Runs two online support groups for amputees
-Actively participates in six more
-Stays connected with three in-person peer groups
-And is currently writing a book about his personal journey and the deeper layers of recovery
He has also become a powerful advocate for navigating insurance systems and pushing for proper prosthetic care—something so many in the limb loss community desperately need.
“To anyone out there facing limb loss or struggling through recovery,” Tom says,“your feelings are completely valid—but they’re not permanent. You don’t have to tackle everything at once. Just take one small step—and then another. Every little bit counts.”
Tom Jalinski’s journey reminds us that recovery isn’t linear, and purpose isn’t lost with a limb. In fact, for Tom—it’s only just begun.
https://www.orthecousa.com/post/patient-spotlight-tom-jalinski-finding-purpose-after-limb-loss
