The Limb Preservation Foundation Launches New Peer Support Program in Honor of Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month
-Nonprofit will also host a patient symposium on overcoming limb loss challenges-
LITTLETON, CO – The Limb Preservation Foundation (LPF) is marking Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month this April with the launch of a new peer support program offering one-on-one support topatients undergoing limb treatment due to tumor, trauma or infection. The program complements and enhances medical care by creating the emotional, social, and practical assistance necessary for managing a limb-risk situation and moving toward recovery.
“Facing a limb-threatening condition can be a scary, isolating experience. Having someone to connect with who has been through a similar situation can make a huge difference, helping patients feel supported and less alone,” said Rick Allen, vice president of the foundation’s board and a bone cancer survivor who underwent six knee replacements as part of his treatment.
Limb loss and limb differences are more common than people realize. An estimated 2.1 million Americans are living with limb loss and 36% of those suffer from depression, according to the Amputee Coalition. Limb loss can not only take a toll on an individual’s mental health, but can also create financial challenges. People with limb loss pay nearly $150,000 more in lifetime healthcare costs than their counterparts without limb loss, reported the coalition. Hospital costs associated with amputation total more than $8 million dollars each year.
The foundation, which enhances the quality of life for those confronting limb-threatening conditions, has provided financial assistance to patients since its founding in 1986. LPF has contributed more than $2 million to help patients cover medical and living expenses while undergoing treatment. The nonprofit has also provided scholarships totaling $195,000 to students with limb loss or limb differences and has served more than 1,800 individuals throughout its history.
“At the end of the day, LPF isn’t just providing scholarships. They aren’t just providing medical treatment. They are helping support patients through all parts of the care cycle,” said Hunter Treschl, who lost an arm in a shark attack six years ago.
To that end, the foundation will host a patient-focused symposium on overcoming limb challenges on April 28 at 6:30 p.m. The virtual event will feature an amputee, a caregiver and LPF board member Dr. Daniel Lerman, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in treating adult and pediatric patients with benign and malignant tumors of the bone and soft tissue. To register for the event click here.
For 35 years, the Limb Preservation Foundation has funded hope, help and possibilities using a unique model that brings together world-class physicians and researchers, passionate healthcare professionals and patients to advance research, support care and enhance lives. For more information visit https://limbpreservation.org.
Media Contact:
Jon Pushkin, Pushkin PR
jon@pushkinpr.com; 303-725-5031
###