Winnie Boal

Winnie Boal was familiar with PAD from an early age because of her family history, and when she developed severe leg pain while walking in 2024, she quickly recognized the symptoms and later sought care from a vascular surgeon. To manage her PAD, Winnie committed to walking despite the discomfort, participated in a rehabilitation walking program, and continues to walk outdoors or on a treadmill most days while incorporating leg-strengthening exercises at the gym. Winnie finds that using two walking sticks when walking long distances outdoors helps her walk further and possibly faster, and using her arms helps her propel uphill. Her persistence has paid off; her legs are no longer limiting her, and she can now walk as much as she wants without needing a surgical intervention for PAD. The PAD Facebook support group has supported Winnie by providing helpful information, practical advice, and encouragement from others who understand the challenges of living with PAD.