Governor Stein Proclaims National Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month

National Limb Loss And Limb Difference Awareness Month

2026

By The Governor Of The State Of North Carolina

A Proclamation

Whereas, approximately 5.6 million Americans live with limb loss and limb difference, and 500,000 new cases of limb loss and limb difference occur annually; and 

Whereas, approximately 35,000 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, vascular disease, and infection are the most common diagnoses preceding an amputation; studies have shown that behaviors such as managing diabetes, 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 and limb difference is vital to enabling people to reach their full potential and live healthy, independent lives with the ability to engage in activities of daily living, essential job-related functions, personal hygiene, and physical activity to maximize whole-body and mental well-being; 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 and limb difference, their families, and health care providers throughout the United States; and 

Whereas, the State of North Carolina encourages people to support and advocate for those living with limb loss and their families in our communities;

Now, Therefore, I, JOSH STEIN, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim April 2026 as “National Limb Loss And Limb Difference Awareness Month” in North Carolina and commend its observance to all residents.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Great Seal of the State of North Carolina at the Capitol in Raleigh this twentieth day of April in the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-sixth and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.