Unlocking Austin’s Potential: A Story of Innovation and Inspiration with Essentia Health

The heartwarming story of Austin Berglund, a nine-year-old hockey player from Austin, is a true testament to perseverance and innovation. Born missing the lower part of his right arm, Austin faced challenges when it came to playing hockey with a traditional prosthetic. However, thanks to the dedication and expertise of Joseph Vanderbosch, an Orthotics and Prosthetics Operations Manager, Austin’s hockey experience has been transformed.

Joseph noticed that Austin needed more range of motion at his elbow to effectively handle a hockey stick. By changing the socket design and incorporating a locking mechanism with a pin on the liner, Joseph was able to provide Austin with a prosthetic that allowed for better range of motion and control. The result was a prosthetic that not only gave Austin the ability to use his shoulder, internal and external rotation, pronation, and supination effectively but also allowed him to excel on the ice.

The process of creating this customized prosthetic was a collaborative and fast-paced effort. Joseph worked tirelessly to ensure that Austin had his new prosthetic in time for his next hockey practice. The impact of the new prosthetic was immediate and significant. Austin was able to do things on the ice that he had never been able to do before, showcasing his determination and spirit.

For Austin’s mom, Christina, the experience was nothing short of amazing. Watching her son excel on the ice with the help of Essentia Health’s innovative prosthetic was a moment she will never forget. The fast and exciting process of creating the prosthetic not only made a huge impact on Austin’s first hockey season but also left the Berglund family excited for what the future holds.

As Austin continues his hockey journey, supported by Essentia Health and the amazing tools they have created for him, the possibilities are endless. With the care and dedication of individuals like Joseph Vanderbosch and the team at Essentia Health, Austin can look forward to achieving his dreams both on and off the ice. The story of Austin Berglund is a true testament to the power of determination, innovation, and a community that cares like nowhere else.