Despite missing a leg, Launy Jørgensen is not ready for retirement

Three years ago, Leif Hansen's driver, Launy, was struck by tragedy. A work accident resulted in a deep gash in Launy's right foot. Unfortunately, the wound developed gangrene after treatment at the hospital. It was necessary to amputate the front part of the foot. But when Launy woke up from the anesthesia, it wasn't just the foot that was missing. To his great surprise, the entire lower leg up to the knee had been mistakenly amputated.

- It was, of course, a big shock. I had expected them to only remove the front part of the foot. Suddenly, my world was turned upside down. I naturally stared at a tough rehabilitation, but I was also very concerned about whether I could continue my work. I wasn't ready for retirement, but as a truck driver, you don't just use your right foot for the accelerator. You also have to climb up and down from the driver's cab several times a day. It's not a sedentary job, even though you spend many hours behind the wheel, Launy explains.

Launy Jørgensen er lastbilchauffør ved Leif Hansen

Early retirement was therefore looming just around the corner. Therefore, it was with a certain amount of fear that Launy showed up at the job center. He was afraid that the only way out was a life on the couch and TV reruns. Fortunately, the job counselor from Aarhus Municipality was open to the idea of Launy continuing in a flexible job. Of course, there were certain challenges to be solved before Launy could climb back into the driver's seat. Fortunately, his boss, Leif Hansen's director Lasse Hansen, was more than willing to help Launy return to work.

- Of course, there were a few practical questions that we needed answers to before we could get Launy back on the job. First and foremost, we had to modify the driver's cab to fit his left foot. It was also clear that Launy could no longer transport goods during the daytime. But Launy has always been a good and dedicated employee, so it was only natural to help him return. We have therefore found a good solution where Launy can do night driving with bulk cargo a few times a week, Lasse explains.

Launy is not as mobile as he was before the accident, and he takes longer to complete his tasks. But he takes it with a smile. For Launy, it was important to get back to work. He has always enjoyed working, and over the years, it has become a significant part of his identity. When Launy settles into the truck's comfortable seats, he gets a feeling of freedom that he doesn't find anywhere else.

- I've always liked to work. I'm from the old school. There weren't much nonsense; you just worked. Over time, being a truck driver became a big part of my identity. I wasn't ready to let go of that part of me. I needed to stay relevant and contribute to society. Of course, I'm not as efficient as before the accident, but I'm still giving it my all. I also expect to continue until the 'real' retirement comes. Then I won't have to be bossed around by my wife for a little while longer, Launy concludes with a big laugh.