Limb Loss Awareness Month
Did you know April is Limb Loss awareness month? I didn’t either. It’s actually the first time the Amputee Coalition of America has held a month-long campaign to raise awareness. That’s mainly because there are three different amputee worlds: congenital, traumatic and health-related amputations. The ACA’s campaign focuses on the health-related amputations and how many of those are preventable.
It’s worth checking out… I realize the focus may be on adults, but I think any type of awareness can make a difference about how our society handles a person who doesn’t look like you and me. It also talks about accidents involving children… There’s a heartbreaking story about a family whose daughter lost her leg in a lawnmower accident. I’ve met a number of children who dealt with the same type of accident… and I’ve seen how they are incredibly strong and are able to grow up into great people! You can read the story here. I also appreciate the writings about combat amputees who deserve incredible amounts of love and support for putting themselves at risk for our country.
Thanks for sharing! Like you, I had no idea limb difference people had a month. SO SO glad they do!!!
I’m gonna link to your post from mine! Again, thanks! : )
Awesome. Thanks. I figure the more we talk about limb differences, the less mystique it holds!
I’m frustrated with the emphasis of “limb loss. awareness” which seems to only mean someone having a total limb loss. I’m missing a fibula from Fibular Hemimelia which means I have a 4 inch leg length difference. The other people in the FB group for my birth defect think this month includes their kids but it doesn’t seem like that’s true. Comments?
@Lois – I agree that it just doesn’t feel like the Amputee Coalition is very mindful to children with limb differences. But I don’t think that prevents parents and children for celebrating their differences as well.