House adopts Matzie ‘Limb Loss Awareness’ resolution

Rep. Robert Matzie    April 16, 2024 | 4:39 PM

HARRISBURG, April 16 – The PA House today adopted state Rep. Rob Matzie’s resolution recognizing April 2024 as “Limb Loss Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania.

Matzie, D-Beaver, said he introduced H.R. 299 both to highlight the challenges and triumphs of Pennsylvanians living without a limb and also to raise awareness about prevention.

“More than 2 million Americans live with limb loss, and it’s estimated that every single day, more than 300 people in the United States lose a limb. We see many of them navigate the world around them with tenacity and success, but what we don’t see are all the challenges – physical and emotional – they face and overcome every day.

“I introduced this resolution to honor the courage and achievements of all Pennsylvanians living without a limb – whether the limb loss resulted from congenital causes, trauma or disease. But I’m also offering this resolution to raise awareness that the No. 1 cause of surgical amputations – vascular diseases such as diabetes and peripheral artery disease – is at least partially within our power to control.

“While we can’t control risk factors like age and family history, other risks – including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, inactivity and excess weight – can be changed or treated.

“By learning the risk factors, talking to their doctors and making lifestyle changes, folks can reduce their risk before amputation becomes unavoidable.”

More information about peripheral artery disease and limb loss is available here: https://blog.amputee-coalition.org/education/know-the-facts-about-peripheral-artery-disease-and-protect-your-limbs/.