Awareness focus for those who are missing limbs

In 2019, I was struck by a large garbage truck while jogging. As a result, I underwent multiple surgeries, had my left leg reconstructed, and my right leg amputated below the knee.

Becoming an amputee has been an eye-opening journey into our health/insurance systems and ableist structures.

It has been an experience I find myself still navigating and compelled to advocate for. The disability community is the only community anyone can join at any time, regardless of age, gender, race or socio-economic status.

Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month occurs during the month of April every year. April 12, I will be attending a gubernatorial proclamation Gov. Josh Green to designate April as this in the state of Hawaii.

There are approximately 2.1 million Americans living with limb loss and limb difference. Over 500 Americans lose a limb every day. Approximately 1,000 children are born each year in the United States with congenital limb differences.

Access to appropriate prosthetic care for people living with limb loss and limb difference is vital to enable individuals to reach their full potential, live independently, and live well.

I love my home state of Hawaii, but we cannot enjoy our beaches and mountains without accessibility and the proper prosthetic devices which medical insurance deems a luxury.

Hawaii is in better need of support resources. We need to take care of our people and give them what they need to live as anyone else in this state is able to. Just as it was me, it could be any of you.

Heather Shorey Holualoa