VA Augusta To Host Veteran Amputee Activities For Limb Loss Awareness Month

April is Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month. It is to recognize and honor the sacrifices made by service members who have an amputation related injury. It was established by The Amputee Coalition and is dedicated to advocating for, supporting, and educating people who have limb loss and/or limb differences. In honor of Limb Loss Awareness Month, VA Augusta Health Care System will host activities this month to highlight local VA services available to Veterans experiencing limb loss. According to the press release, Melanie Rahn, VA Augusta Amputee Rehabilitation Coordinator stated “Limb loss can pose significant challenges, but with help, Veterans can adapt and overcome,” “These events demonstrate how Veterans can live full, active lives, as well as highlight the services we offer Veterans who are navigating limb loss.” VA Augusta will host all the Limb Loss Awareness Events at its Uptown campus at 1 Freedom Way in Augusta: Adaptive Cycling: 9 a.m., Tuesday, April 23, Uptown pavilion (back of campus) Rock Wall Climbing, 9 a.m., Thursday, April 25, first-floor courtyard Art Therapy, 9 a.m., Monday, April 29, Room 2A-147 The Amputee Coalition continues to seek proclamations every April in all 50 states to declare April as Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month. Georgia has an approved proclamation. South Carolina does not have a proclamation in place for Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month. Facts About Limb Loss and Limb Difference 2.1 Millon of people are living with limb loss in the U.S. 185k people have an amputation each year in the U.S. 507 people lose a limb each day in the U.S. By 2050, 3.6 million people will be living with limb loss by 2050 This month does not only help and provide resources for amputees but for their caregivers and families to help and keep hope they still can live without limits. Veterans seeking more information about VA Augusta’s amputee and other limb differences services can contact Melanie Rahn at Melanie.Rahn@va.gov.