04/22/2026
Language, inclusion, and belonging are at the heart of Limb Loss & Limb Difference Awareness Month. This isn't just about statistics and devices—it's about people, identities, and community.
The words we choose matter. Saying "person with limb loss" or "person with a limb difference" puts the person first, instead of defining them only by their body. Avoid terms like "amputee victim," "handicapped," or "confined to a wheelchair," and never assume what someone can or cannot do just by looking at them. When in doubt, ask people how they describe themselves and respect their language.
Inclusion also means removing barriers in everyday life. That looks like accessible schools, workplaces, and public spaces; fair hiring practices; adaptive sports and recreation; and seeing people with limb differences represented in media, leadership, and decision‑making spaces. Small actions—like making sure a venue is accessible, offering multiple participation options, or challenging a hurtful joke—add up.
You don't need to have all the answers to make a difference. Listen, learn, and be willing to change how you speak and design your environments. Inclusion starts with one conversation, one caption, one choice to see the whole person—not just the limb.
Your ordinary is extraordinary. 🧡
How do you promote inclusion in your community? Join us in advocating for better representation and accessibility!
