Uncertain of what this meant they began questioning the insurance company about whether or not they would be providing a prosthetic leg. Fowler wondered how a leg could be considered “equipment.” After weeks in the hospital, when Fowler was able to be cared for at home -- Barely able to stand or even sit up unassisted, Fowler was told that the hospital would not even be providing him with a wheelchair. A few weeks after returning home Fowler was informed that his insurance company would not be covering any portion of the 15-thousand dollar cost for the prosthetic leg he needs. Zackary Fowler is not alone – according to the Amputee Coaltion of America, amputees often find that their medical insurance either doesn’t cover artificial limbs or covers only a fraction of the cost of the expensive devices.

Advocates around the country are lobbying to force health insurers cover a larger share of artificial limbs, which allow amputees often to return to their former work and lead active, productive lives. In the meantime, a group of Fowler’s supporters have formed the non-profit organization “A Bounty of Support” to help Fowler, and others in his predicament, pay for artificial limbs. A Bounty of Support has organized a Tri-tip Dinner and Silent Auction on Saturday, Nov. 10th at 6:00 pm in The Evalynn Bishop Hall (Howard Park) in Ione.. Tickets are $25.00 and can be purchased at the Ione Pharmacy or by calling Renee Nygren at (209) 763-2812. A Bounty of Support is also accepting cash donations at Bank of Amador under A Bounty of Support, In Trust for Zackary S. Fowler. California Highway Patrol Officer Mike Remmel, the first double amputee to return to active duty, will be a special Guest of Honor