House adopts Matzie resolution recognizing April 2025 as ‘Limb Loss Awareness Month’ in Pennsylvania
Rep. Robert F. Matzie April 23, 2025 | 3:33 PM
HARRISBURG, April 23 – The Pennsylvania House has adopted state Rep. Rob Matzie’s resolution designating April 2025 as “Limb Loss Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania.
Matzie, who is chairman of the House Majority Caucus, said he introduced H.R. 33 to recognize the challenges and accomplishments of Pennsylvanians living without a limb and to raise awareness about preventable causes of limb loss.
“There are more than 2 million Americans of all ages, races and genders who navigate the world courageously and successfully without a limb,” Matzie said. “We see many of them working, playing, providing for their families and giving back to their community. What we don’t always see are the many physical, psychological and logistical challenges they face and overcome every day.
“I introduced this resolution to celebrate them and the example of courage and strength they provide for all of us.”
Matzie said he also introduced H.R. 33 to raise awareness about the preventable causes of limb loss.
“The main cause of surgical amputations is not trauma, but vascular diseases like diabetes and peripheral artery disease,” Matzie said. “But limb loss doesn’t have to be an unavoidable consequence of these conditions. With lifestyle changes to control risk factors like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, excess weight and inactivity, it’s possible to reduce the risk before amputation becomes necessary.
“Of course, factors like age, heredity and family history play a role. But with so much at stake and so many factors within our control, there’s every reason to be proactive and make that effort.”
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/.