ABC World News Tonight Spotlights Bilateral Above-Knee Limb Loss Patient Yvonne Llanes

We introduced you to wife, mother of four, and bilateral above-knee prosthetic user Yvonne Llanes three years ago when she reclaimed her mobility after attending Hanger Clinic’s Bilateral Above-Knee Amputee (BAKA) Bootcamp. Now Yvonne returns as a breast cancer survivor, peer mentor, and two-time ABC World News Tonight Person of the Week.

In 2005, Yvonne Llanes’ life changed forever when she was hit in a parking lot by a driver under the influence and lost both of her legs. Feeling hopeless, she was wheelchair-bound for almost 10 years until she attended Hanger’s BAKA Bootcamp in 2015. It was then she was first inspired to leave her wheelchair behind, learn to walk independently on two custom-designed prosthetic legs, and never look back. After a recent battle with breast cancer, Yvonne returned to BAKA Bootcamp this year as a mentor to help inspire others.

Decide to Rise

Yvonne’s “Decide to Rise” motto has become the theme for the event, and she continues to serve as a close friend and supporter for many others in the limb loss community. She was thrilled to return to BAKA Bootcamp 2021 alongside her friends who have become like family and supported her from afar during her cancer diagnosis and recovery.

Yvonne’s fighting spirit and inspiring attitude were recently showcased in the ABC World News Tonight “Person of the Week” segment with host David Muir. View the full press release or watch the ABC World News Tonight story to see Yvonne’s incredible journey.

Watch Yvonne’s Story on ABC World News Tonight

BAKA Bootcamp

Bilateral Above-Knee Amputee (BAKA) Bootcamp is for bilateral above-knee prosthetic users interested in improving their daily function and abilities. This challenging and rewarding event helps to strengthen the daily activity and abilities of bilateral above-knee limb loss participants while providing peer support opportunities. Attendees leave feeling challenged and encouraged by fellow people with limb loss as well as an exceptional Hanger Clinic team.

For upcoming Hanger patient events, visit our Event page.