Overview
‘I love going for walks, but when I walked down to the beachfront that morning I had no idea that I was going to lose my legs.’
Listen to Dean and Coralie share their journey through Dean’s tragedy of losing both legs.
Podcast
Legless
13 Min.
Thursday, 16 July 2026
Messages of Hope Podcast
‘I love going for walks, but when I walked down to the beachfront that morning I had no idea that I was going to lose my legs.’
How would you cope if you suddenly lost both your legs? What changes would it bring to your life and relationships? Dean talks about his near-death encounter with an illness that ended up taking both his legs. Together with his wife, they share how they found renewed hope in a future without legs.
Key Takeaways
- Life can change without warning.
Dean’s ordinary holiday became a life-threatening medical emergency, showing how quickly the unexpected can reshape everything. - Early medical attention matters.
What seemed like the flu was actually necrotising fasciitis, an aggressive infection that led to the amputation of both legs. Dean’s reluctance to see a doctor nearly cost him his life. - Recovery begins with believing progress is possible.
Nurses, rehabilitation staff and other amputees helped Dean see that losing his legs did not mean losing his future. - Independence is rebuilt through small victories.
Learning to transfer with a slide board, shower, dress and move around independently gave Dean confidence, dignity and a renewed sense of purpose. - Grief and gratitude can exist together.
Dean still experiences frustration, depression and moments of questioning, but he also recognises the blessing of being alive and the progress he has made. - Faith and community can provide strength during trauma.
Prayer, Scripture, church support and God’s promises helped Dean and Coralie endure uncertainty, deepen their faith and maintain hope throughout the ordeal.
Episode Transcript
Explore further
Booklets and Related Episodes
Each episode of our regular podcast is accompanied by free resources that provide hope, encouragement and advice for navigating the difficulties and challenges of daily life.
Where’s God In All Of This?
What do we do when - in the midst of trouble, suffering, or pain - God seems to go missing? And how do we know He is still there, working in our lives, and for our good?
Booklet
Where’s God In All Of This?
What do we do when - in the midst of trouble, suffering, or pain - God seems to go missing? And how do we know He is still there, working in our lives, and for our good?
Booklet
Chronic Pain
How do I deal with chronic pain?
PRAYER REQUEST
Would you like us to pray for you?
We believe God is at work in all things, draws near in challenging circumstances, and loves each and every person fully and unconditionally.
If you would like us to pray for you or for someone you know, we encourage you to send us a prayer request. Our team would be happy to keep your situation in our prayers.
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT
Support Services
Professional help is always available
Across Australia and New Zealand, God richly blesses us with counsellors, psychologists and medical professionals who are able to offer help, support and hope throughout life’s challenges.
If you have found the themes or topics contained within this episode challenging or confronting, we encourage you to reach out to one of the following professional support organisations.
