National Limb Loss Awareness Month

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

WHEREAS, over 500 people lose a limb each day in the United States; and

WHEREAS, 1,000 babies are born each year in the United States with congenital limb difference; and

WHEREAS, studies show that 75 percent of limb loss is preventable; and

WHEREAS, diabetes and peripheral vascular disease are the leading causes of limb loss; and

WHEREAS, the number of amputations per day will double by 2050 unless a major public awareness campaign is launched and key prevention initiatives are put in place; and

WHEREAS, the Amputee Coalition of America Provides education, outreach, advocacy and a National Limb Loss Information Center for the benefit of persons with limb loss/difference, their families and health care providers; and

WHEREAS, April will be an appropriate month to designate as National Limb Loss Awareness Month as spring is a time of renewal and inspiration:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim the month of April 2011, as

National Limb Loss Awareness Month

in the State of Alabama and encourage all citizens to join in recognizing the importance of this month and celebrating  people with limb loss and limb difference living full and productive lives, expressing gratitude to caregivers who are a source of support and motivation, and saluting combat amputees who have lost their limbs in service to this country.

 

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 29th day of March 2011.

 

      

Governor Robert Bentley