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Computer-controlled leg to help crash victim walk again

Staff photo by Jan Underwood Dan Lassiter, 20, practices using a walker under the supervision of physical therapy assistant Karen Puterbaugh.

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By Dale Huffman, Staff Writer Updated 1:47 AM Thursday, July 9, 2009

His parents call him their living miracle.

Dan Lassiter, a 20-year-old Phillipsburg man, lost his left leg above the knee and nearly his life in an automobile-truck crash on Oct. 3.

On Tuesday, July 7, the young man met with medical specialists who made a cast and took final measurements to equip Dan with a computer-controlled leg. The state-of-the-art prosthetic will be equipped with sensors in the knee that will respond to Dan’s left hip and right leg to help him keep a normal gait as he walks up hills or on uneven ground.

“I can’t wait to get my leg,” Dan said. “Many kind people have helped me get to this place. I’m happy to be on the way back.”

According to Dan’s father, Joe Lassiter, it’s been a rough journey.

“My son was in a coma and listed in critical condition for over six weeks when he first arrived at Miami Valley Hospital last October,” Lassiter said. “He was in the intensive care unit for three months and was hospitalized for seven months. It seems like eternity before we found out that he would survive. My wife, Shirley, and I consider his ongoing recovery a miracle, a gift from God. We are so proud of Dan, who is proving he is a very strong young man.”

Contact Dale Huffman at dhuffman@DaytonDailyNews.com or 1611 S. Main St. Dayton, OH 45409. Fax: (937) 225-2489. Phone: (937) 225-2272.

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Hey Dan!!
i guess im your cousin, sort of.(Al Lassiter is married to my Aunt Eleanor) My prayers are coming your way. keep your head up!!! dont lose the fire in your belly when the going gets rough.

Liz

Liz McNeill
11:32 AM, 7/13/2009

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I'm praying for you Dan and your family. Keep up the good work.

Myrtle Willy
9:23 AM, 7/9/2009

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This guys a beast. Keep up the great attitude. You inspire us all to accept what life deals you.

Jim
11:25 PM, 7/8/2009

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