Proclaiming April of 2026, to Be "Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month" in the State of Rhode Island

WHEREAS, Loss of limb refers to the absence of a limb due to injury, disease or surgery. Limb difference refers to physical variation in the size, shape, or function of a limb. Limb difference can be present from birth (congenital) or acquired later in life; and

WHEREAS, There are approximately 5.7 million individuals living with limb loss and limb difference in the United States; and

WHEREAS, More than 2.3 million individuals live with a form of limb loss, and more than 3.4 million were born with a form of limb difference; and

WHEREAS, Each year, 185,000 to 500,000 individuals in the United States experience limb loss or are born with limb difference; and

WHEREAS, Diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and blood clots are cited as the leading causes of limb loss, accounting for fifty-four percent of amputations; and

WHEREAS, Traumatic accidents or injuries such as motor vehicle collisions, workplace incidents, sporting injuries, and military wounds, are other significant causes of limb loss, affecting forty-five percent of amputees; and

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

WHEREAS, Access to appropriate prosthetic care for people living with limb loss or limb difference is vital to enable individuals to reach their full potential, remain physically active, live independently, and thrive; and

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

RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby proclaims April of 2026, to be “Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month” in the State of Rhode Island; and be it further

RESOLVED, That this House hereby encourages all Rhode Islanders to join in recognizing the importance of this month by supporting people living with limb loss and limb difference, learning about issues affecting people with limb loss or limb difference, expressing gratitude to family and caregivers who are a source of support and motivation, and by saluting our veterans who have lost their limbs in service to our Nation or thereafter; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to transmit duly certified copies of this resolution to the National Limb Loss Resource Center and The Amputee Coalition.