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President's Message
This has been another year
of growth and success for
the Amputee Coalition
of America (ACA). I’m
pleased to report that our
initiative to improve access to prosthetic
care and devices has gained momentum,
the programs we introduced into the military
have continued to receive top ratings,
our youth program continues to expand,
and we are reaching out to more individuals
at risk for amputation through the addition
of our Spanish language publications. Despite
these accomplishments, we recognize
that there is still much that can and should
be done, and I know we are well-positioned
to address these issues.
I am also very proud that ACA continues
to be the leading national nonprofit organization
dedicated to the needs of the nearly
2 million people living with the absence of
a limb in the United States. Our work is
inspired by our firm belief in the power of
human beings and their ability to overcome
adversity and loss. Sometimes, all it takes
to unleash this power is the knowledge that
others have walked the path before and
have successfully navigated its twists and
turns – and knowing that throughout this
journey, ACA is there to provide guidance
and support.
As you read this report, you will find
that it contains information about our
programs and award-winning publications,
our partnerships with the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC), the Department of Defense,
universities, and other voluntary health
agencies. It also describes the work we do to ensure that people living with limb
loss have access to appropriate care and
outlines the work of hundreds of volunteers
all across America who visit with, counsel
and support amputees and their families
through the difficult times. You will see that
we work with children, seniors and people
facing amputation, promoting healthful
lifestyles that will help prevent the devastating
secondary conditions that can lead to
subsequent amputations.
 I also hope that it helps you understand
that by sharing reliable information and by
providing role models, mentors, advocates,
and sometimes just a broad shoulder, ACA
proves that no amputee is ever really alone
and that all people facing or coping with
the loss of a limb can live a life as large and
as productive as their dreams will allow.
I know that ACA has made a profound
difference in many lives. I also know that
we owe our success to the ongoing moral
and financial support of our partners and
friends.
I sincerely hope that we will continue to
merit your support in the year ahead.
Paddy Rossbach, RN
President & CEO
Amputee Coalition of America
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