MECHANICSVILLE, Va. -- Tammy Clark is adjusting to life without her legs. Both of Tammy’s legs have been amputated within the last five years.
A combination of lupus, diabetes, and medications led to her amputations in 2010 and 2015.
Over the years, Tammy has felt like giving up both physically and mentally.
"You feel secluded. You feel deprived," Tammy said.
But Tammy’s guardian angel, Lori Talley has given her hope. Tammy has learned to lean on Lori for support.
Lori, who also lives in Mechanicsville, experiences the world just like Tammy.
"In 2005, I started having problems with my legs. I've had tons and tons of surgeries," Lori said. "Finally in February 2012 I had them amputate my right leg."
Lori lost both of her legs in 2012 after several bouts of cancer and severe neuropathy.
"I wasn't going to let it get me down," Lori said. "No matter what happens to me there is always someone worse off than me. Always."
Lori said she would not let her disability define her. She volunteers at church, manages her son’s softball team, and volunteers her time with amputee support groups.
"Anything is possible. Nothing is impossible," Lori said. "If you’re in the bed and you’re in the hospital and you’ve just had a leg amputated and someone walks in with two fake legs it is an immediate pick me up."
Through Lori’s actions and encouraging words, Tammy saw light at the end of a very dark tunnel.
"Lori is not going to let you have a pity party," Tammy said. "There is not going to be a pity party.”
Tammy’s miracle worker is a friend who helps heal on the inside and out.
"She inspired me in so many ways," Tammy said.
Individually they may have lost so much, but Lori and Tammy consider themselves lucky.
"I feel like I have gained one of the most special people in my life that I’ll ever have in my life," Tammy said.
"I feel really blessed because I have an opportunity to help people there is a reason to go on," Lori added.
Greg McQuade features local heroes in a weekly “Heroes Among Us” segment. Watch Greg’s reports Thursdays on CBS News at 6 or here on WTVR.com. If you would like to nominate someone to be featured on “Heroes Among Us,” click here to email heroes@wtvr.com.
