Going to Kansas City?

The Amputee Coalition of America (ACA) is planning its national conference for this June in Kansas City, Missouri. The conference, which in the past few years has been held late in the summer, will serve to kick off the summer season. Mark your calendars because this year the conference is scheduled from June 2 through June 5.

This conference is an opportunity to learn about new prosthetic and assistive devices, as well as your chance to speak directly with many of the manufacturers about their products. With a docket full of educational lectures ranging from running skills to liner care, there is certainly something for everybody. Activities such as the group dance and swimming help to break the ice among the participants.

Several patients who have attended the ACA Conference in the past remark about the instant camaraderie that was felt among the amputees. At the conference, limb loss is the norm. Many found it was refreshing to be among so many amputee peers--that it took some of the isolation away that is often felt when a limb is lost.

After this event, the ACA has noted that they only will host a national conference every other year. Hotel reservations are filling up fast, and several airlines have agreed to provide discounted fares. Check the ACA website for more information.

It should also be noted that the ACA is working to establish April as Limb Loss Awareness Month. The organization is soliciting grass root support to make this designation a reality. ACA is requesting that all amputees and their families contact the governor of their state to show their support for establishing Limb Loss Awareness Month. OPC supports this effort as we believe that Limb Loss Awareness Month can serve as a platform both to introduce important legislation and to accentuate issues surrounding living with an amputation. Your support is appreciated.