NEWS RELEASE
THE WAR AMPS
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HOLLAND LANDING, ON – As April marks Limb Loss Awareness Month, amputees like Michaela Blakslee, 5, of Holland Landing, demonstrate that an amputation is not a barrier to living a full and active life. She can take part in her favourite activities with the help of artificial limbs and adaptive devices.
Michaela was born missing her left arm as well as part of her right hand and foot. As a member of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program, she is eligible for financial assistance for the cost of artificial limbs and adaptive devices. She also attends regional CHAMP seminars where “Champs” and their parents learn about the latest in artificial limbs, dealing with teasing and staring and parenting an amputee child.
“Michaela is a very active little girl and was fitted with a device that allows her to hold onto the handlebar of her bike, and a tumbling device for all kinds of floor activities,” says mom, Tracie. “We also attended a CHAMP seminar last year, where Michaela was proud to show her friends her myoelectric arm that allows her to pick up and hold objects.”
Although The War Amps has provided more than 100 years of innovative programs, there is still much to do to ensure amputees, like Michaela, can have the artificial limbs or devices they need. “The Association receives no government grants, but with the public’s continued support, our vital programs for amputees will carry on long into the future,” says Danita Chisholm, Executive Director of the CHAMP Program.
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