Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month

By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

WHEREAS, there are approximately 2.1 million Americans living with limb loss and limb difference; and,

WHEREAS, over 500 Americans lose a limb every day; and,

WHEREAS, approximately 1,000 children are born each year in the United States with congenital limb difference and 600 children lose a limb to a lawn mower accident every summer; and,

WHEREAS, diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and trauma are cited as the leading causes of amputation with approximately 99% of cases being contributed to them; and,

WHEREAS, studies have shown that behaviors such as diabetes management, properly treating wounds, and observing safety practices can be effective in preventing amputations; and,

WHEREAS, the number of Americans living with limb loss/difference will rise to over 3.6 million by 2050 unless a major public awareness campaign is launched and key prevention initiatives put in place; and,

WHEREAS, access to appropriate prosthetic care for people living with limb loss is vital to enable individuals to reach their full potential, live independently, and live well; and,

WHEREAS, the Amputee Coalition provides education, support and advocacy through the National Limb Loss Resource Center for the benefit of persons with limb loss and limb difference, their families, and health care providers throughout the United States; and,

WHEREAS, Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month is a time to celebrate people living with limb loss and limb difference, learn about issues affecting people with limb loss, express gratitude to family and caregivers who are a source of support and motivation, and salute our veterans who have lost limbs in service to our country or in retirement;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize April 2022 as LIMB LOSS AND LIMB DIFFERENCE AWARENESS MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of our citizens.

Governor of Virginia

Proclamations