R 313
2024 -- H 8300
Enacted 05/22/2024

H O U S E   R E S O L U T I O N
PROCLAIMING MAY OF 2024, TO BE “LIMB LOSS AND LIMB DIFFERENCE AWARENESS MONTH” IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

Introduced By: Representatives Fogarty, Shekarchi, Blazejewski, Hull, Handy, Place, Kennedy, Tanzi, Ajello, and Shallcross Smith

Date Introduced: May 22, 2024

     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 percent 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; now, therefore
be it
     RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby
proclaims May of 2024, 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 celebrating 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 the service to our Nation or in retirement; 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.
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LC006151
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