Declare Limb Loss Awareness Month

Senate Resolution No. 1076 BY: Senator SKOUFIS MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim April 2019, as Limb Loss Awareness Month in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official months that are set aside to increase awareness of serious health issues that affect the lives of citizens of New York State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim April 2019, as Limb Loss Awareness Month in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Limb Loss Awareness Month; and WHEREAS, There are approximately 2.1 million Americans living with limb loss/difference; and WHEREAS, Over 500 Americans lose a limb every day; and WHEREAS, Approximately 1,000 children are born each year in the United States with congenital limb difference and 600 children lose a limb to a lawn mower accident every summer; and WHEREAS, Diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and trauma are cited as the leading causes of amputation with approximately 99% 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, The number of Americans living with limb loss/difference will rise to over 3.6 million by 2050 unless a major public awareness campaign is launched and key prevention initiatives are put in place; and WHEREAS, Access to appropriate prosthetic care for people living with limb loss is vital to enable individuals to reach their full potential, 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 with limb loss/difference, their families, and health care providers throughout the United States; and WHEREAS, April is an appropriate month to designate as Limb Loss Awareness Month as spring is a time of renewal and inspiration; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim April 2019, as Limb Loss Awareness Month in the State of New York, and to encourage all of its citizens 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, express gratitude to family and caregivers who are a source of support and motivation, and salute our veterans who have lost their limbs in service to this country or in retirement; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York.