Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, Sandra Overstreet moved to Bradenton, Florida back in 1968. For years, Sandra suffered from a rare condition of severe ulcers that simply would not heal. Unfortunately, after trying numerous treatment options recommended by her physicians, she was forced to have a below knee amputation. After suffering the tragedy of losing one leg, Sandra was determined to find a treatment that would save her other leg.
Time went by and after many disappointing attempts to eliminate the ulcers, Sandra’s physicians suggested that she schedule an appointment with Cortez Foot and Ankle Specialists to discuss her unique situation. When Sandra first presented at Cortez Foot and Ankle, nearly ten years ago, she was in a very depressed state following the loss of her leg. The concern for her condition heightened when Dr. Scott Handley discovered that her remaining leg was developing similar issues, as the one that had been removed. Sandra doesn’t remember much about her initial appointment except for what Dr. Handley said when he first walked in. Understanding her concerns and fears, Dr. Handley examined her and said the words she desperately wanted to hear, “Ms. Overstreet, you will not lose your other leg.”
Dr. Handley and his team worked diligently to reverse the symptoms Sandra was experiencing. It took several months and an intensive treatment plan of wound debridement and medication before her condition improved. Cortez Foot and Ankle became the point of contact for all of Sandra’s complete medical care. Dr. Handley coordinated Sandra’s Interventional Cardiologists, Infectious Disease and Internal Medicine physicians. Initially, she began a schedule of three visits per week, then two visits, and then one per week until the ulcers finally healed. Once resolved, she was able to graduate to a maintenance program, where she has been for the last 10 years.
Dr. Handley was true to his word; Sandra’s leg healed. Dr. Handley played a vital role in restoring Sandra’s physical health, and in doing so he repaired her mental and emotional health as well. She then took control of her own health and well-being. Sandra gave up smoking, started eating better, and began a regular exercise routine. It isn’t surprising at all that she is much healthier now and has the use of her leg. “It is remarkable what they have done for me. I was scared and timid after losing the first leg; I was in a very emotional place. They helped me turn my life around. They truly are my heroes,” exclaims Sandra.
Dr. Handley was true to his word; Sandra’s leg healed. Dr. Handley played a vital role in restoring Sandra’s physical health, and in doing so he repaired her mental and emotional health as well.
She then took control of her own health and well-being. Sandra gave up smoking, started eating better, and began a regular exercise routine. It isn’t surprising at all that she is much healthier now and has the use of her leg. “It is remarkable what they have done for me. I was scared and timid after losing the first leg; I was in a very emotional place. They helped me turn my life around. They truly are my heroes,” exclaims Sandra.
Dr. Scott Handley graduated from the University of Toledo and the Ohio College of podiatric Medicine. He completed residency training at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation and Roger Williams Medical Center in Providence, RI. He joined Cortez Foot & Ankle Specialists in 2002.
In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his wife Scarlett, daughter Paige, son Hunter and cat Truck as well as playing golf.
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