Legislation Document

SPONSOR:	Sen. Pettyjohn & Rep. Michael Smith
Sens. Gay, Hansen, Hocker, Mantzavinos, Sokola, Wilson; Reps. K. Johnson, Ramone, Romer

DELAWARE STATE SENATE

152nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 147

RECOGNIZING APRIL 2024 AS “LIMB LOSS AND LIMB DIFFERENCE AWARENESS MONTH” IN THE STATE OF DELAWARE.

WHEREAS, there are more than 5.6 million individuals living with limb loss and limb difference in the United States; and

WHEREAS, more than 2.2 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, over 500,000 individuals in the United States experienced limb loss or are born with limb difference; and

WHEREAS, diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and trauma are cited as the leading causes of amputation with approximately 90% 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, 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 live well; 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; and

WHEREAS, April is an appropriate month to designate as Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness as spring is a time of renewal and inspiration.

NOW, THEREFORE:

BE IT RESOLVED by the Senate of the 152nd General Assembly of the State of Delaware, the House of Representatives concurring therein, that the members of the General Assembly hereby recognize the month of April 2024 as "Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month" in the State of Delaware.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Delawareans are encouraged to join in recognizing the importance of this month by celebrating people living with limb loss and limb difference, learning about issues affecting people with limb loss and limb difference, expressing gratitude to family and caregivers who are a source of support and motivation, and saluting our veterans who have lost their limbs in service to this country or in retirement.