A crack bicycle rider, both of whose legs have been amputated, one above the knee and one below, pronounces our substitute faultless. He is able not only to mount and dismount with ease but to perform all manner of tricks and fancy riding, doing this as well as his competitors blessed with sound, muscular, natural limbs. Besides, he has a mile track record of 2.37.
Money will not buy happiness, but it will aid in its attainment. Money will not compensate for the loss of a limb, but it will buy a fair substitute if one knows where to procure it.
One having a valuable and delicate watch needing repairs would naturally be very cautious into whose hands it was entrusted. In the event of sickness we are apt to be very careful into whose care we place the patient. Careful inquiry is made as to the reliability of the physician and his experience, whether or not he has been successful, if he understands his business and is honest in his purpose; if his advice will be given in the best interests of the patient, or whether his own profit is of first importance to him.
It is entirely proper to ask similar questions in regard to the makers of artificial limbs; but too often people are careless in the matter, and place the case in the hands of almost anybody in the business, without regard to responsibility or reliability. Thus the remedy secured is often worse than the disease. The strictest investigation should be made. A competent maker should be selected. The case being entrusted to him, the minor details should be left to his judgment, with faith that his experience and thorough understanding of his business will produce the best result.
No single style of limb is suitable for all cases. Appropriate and distinct construction is necessary, that the limb shall meet the requirements of the person who is to be compelled to wear it. Recognizing the truth of this, we have been led to the study of the peculiarities and individual needs of each case presented to us. Our limbs are constructed with such a variety of joints and attachments that each appliance may be accurately adapted to any variation in the condition or occupation of the patient. If any doubt exists as to the result in any case, we give ample opportunity for experiment at our expense. It is for this reason that so many purchasers have spoken in the highest terms of praise of our efforts and the results.
We do not seek to discredit other manufacturers, but simply, in full confidence, we state that we are the makers of the best goods obtainable. In the pages following we have endeavored to convey some idea of the ingenuity and artistic skill which we bestow upon our work.
For over forty years—in fact, since 1856—we have conducted our business in Rochester without interruption and with increasing prosperity. Until 1876 the business was conducted by Dr. Douglas Bly, who founded it. Then for twenty years Mr. Fuller personally continued the business, until in 1896 the present company was incorporated under the laws of the State of New York with a paid-up capital of $25,000. The patience and skill exercised throughout these years have evolved the limb we term “The Walk-Easy Leg,” and placed us at the head of manufacturers of artificial limbs. Our efforts have been always to improve and perfect—to excel at every point. We are assured that these efforts have met with approval. We enjoy the confidence of those who have found need of our services. As a further evidence that we have successfully sought to excel, it may be stated that during the past twenty years, notwithstanding active competition, we have supplied the United States Government with one-quarter in number of all the limbs furnished to pensioners. We also have supplied officially the States of Virginia, Georgia, South Carolina and Louisiana. Furthermore, our work has been placed in the first class by various scientific boards convened for the purpose, and it has received the endorsement of the world’s most famous surgeons.
Aside from the personal testimony of the multitudes throughout the country who have availed themselves of our experience and skill, and have offered to bear witness to the good we have done them, we refer as to our financial standing and reliability to Dun or Bradstreet mercantile agencies, or to any bank or public man in our city or vicinity.
Intending purchasers are invited to correspond with us, that they may receive, if they are necessary or desirable, fuller details than are covered in this work. We are always glad to receive inquiries and offer suggestions for the comfort of our customers.