Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month (LLLDAM) 2025: Celebrating Strength, Building Community, Sharing Stories
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Every April, we observe Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month (LLLDAM) to celebrate the strength of 5.6 million people in the U.S. who live with limb loss or limb difference and raise awareness about the challenges they face. This year, we are amplifying their stories and inviting you to join in and share your stories with the world.
What is LLLDAM?
In 2010, the Amputee Coalition established LLLDAM in the U.S. to not only raise awareness but also celebrate the resilience and achievements of individuals living with limb loss or limb differences. However, LLLDAM traces its roots back to 1986, when support groups for amputees began forming connections that eventually led to the creation of Amputee Coalition, which will mark its 40th anniversary in 2026.
Through this month-long observance, the goal is to highlight the importance of limb loss prevention, equitable medical access, and support for those in need.
How to participate
The themes for the LLLDAM change each year. This year, it’s “Empowerment, Community, and Storytelling.” Below, we share how you can participate and spread the message in your community:
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Wear Orange Wednesdays: Every Wednesday in April, wear orange to show your support. Share photos on social media using hashtags like #WearOrangeWednesday and #LLLDAM2025 to spread awareness.
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Share Your Story: If you or someone you know has experienced limb loss or limb difference, sharing personal stories can inspire and educate others.
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Advocacy and Proclamations: Participate in initiatives like the Proclamation Challenge, which aims to get all 50 U.S. states to officially recognize the awareness month. You can also contact lawmakers to advocate for better access to prosthetic care and support.
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Community Events: Join or organize local events such as support group meetings, art challenges, or educational workshops. These gatherings foster connection and understanding within the community.
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Show Your Mettle Day: The last Saturday of April is about empowerment and pride in overcoming challenges. On April 26, 2025, post a photo of you in your “mettle” (prosthetic devices, orthotics, or other mobility aids) on social media and tag @AmputeeCoalition.
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Creative Expression: Participate in art challenges or other creative projects to express solidarity and raise awareness. Submissions in any medium are often welcomed by organizations like the Amputee Coalition and Ottobock.
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Volunteer or Donate: Support organizations that work with limb loss and limb difference communities. Your time or donation can make a significant impact.
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Social Media Campaigns: Use hashtags like #LLLDAM2025 to join global conversations, share resources, and educate others about the importance of inclusivity and accessibility.
LLLDAM around the world
The observance has grown globally, uniting individuals, healthcare professionals, and advocates to cultivate inclusivity and understanding. In Canada, organizations like Ottobock Canada actively participate in LLLDAM by hosting events, sharing educational resources, and emphasizing themes like “Freedom of Movement.”
In the United Kingdom, LLLDAM isn’t officially recognized as a national observance yet, but advocacy groups and healthcare organizations often align their campaigns with the themes of empowerment and inclusivity. Australia also doesn’t have a formal LLLDAM observance, but local amputee support groups and healthcare providers organize events to raise awareness and foster community connections.
In other countries, participants often use social media platforms to share their stories, wear orange, and use hashtags like #LLLDAM2025 to amplify the message of inclusivity and resilience.
For more information about LLLDAM, click here.
