By Desiree Gagne, MA, OTR/L

According to the Amputee Coalition, there are more than 500 amputations every single day in this country, and more than half of all amputations are a result of vascular disease.  In addition, every year more than 1,000 babies are born with a limb difference. And by 2050, 3.6 million people in the U.S. will be living with limb loss. These numbers illustrate the breadth and impact that limb loss and limb difference have in the United States alone. These are just a few of the facts the Amputee Coalition hopes to bring to light during the month of April – and beyond. With nearly two million people living with limb loss/ limb difference in the United States, our community is rich with experiences and diversity. Everybody has a story, and April is our time to celebrate that which is far too often shunned.

Throughout April, events and other activities across the nation will increase awareness, educate the public and policymakers, and celebrate the limb loss and limb difference community. It’s a time to use the power of voice and social media to join forces, a time to educate and support those that struggle with limb loss as well as for those that may be impacted in the future.

For 2018, The Amputee Coalition has activities planned including “Hill Day” on April 16-17 in Washington, D.C. People with limb loss or limb difference, friends, family, clinicians and supporters of all kinds are invited to the event to educate and influence our legislators as they make healthcare decisions. The goal is to make community needs heard and to celebrate surviving and thriving!

In our local area, Un”limb”ited  Possibilities Amputee Support Group is celebrating Limb Loss Awareness Day on April 14th, from 10 am to 2 pm, at Healthsouth Rehabilitation Hospital located at 12440 Cortez Blvd Brooksville, FL.

April is only one month but stories should be shared throughout the year!  Visit Amplifyyourself.org to keep the volume turned up by:

• Sharing your story
• Writing your insurer
• Educating your legislator

Taking these actions can provide encouragement and hope for the future.