The War Amps begins its 2012 address label mailing to Saskatchewan residents this week with the theme, “The Legacy Continues.”

In the accompanying letter, Shannon, a Graduate of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program, describes how she became a part of this legacy at the age of 12 after losing her leg to cancer.

"The War Amps was recommended to my family because they could provide financial assistance with artificial limbs, but little did I know there was so much more to it than that," she said. "Attending my first seminar changed my life. 

"Not only was I dealing with the difficulties of being an amputee and learning to walk again, but I was self-conscious and rarely left home without wearing long pants.  I was overwhelmed with all the information, but most importantly met a lot of other Champs and was impressed at how everyone got around with their artificial limbs."

Through Operation Legacy, Shannon, along with other Champs, passes on the war amputees’ remembrance message to the younger generation. It was these same war amputees who realized many years ago that there was a need to assist Canadian children who were born missing limbs, or lost them due to accidents or medical causes. Because of their foresight, and with the public’s support, the legacy continues.

Sent as a thank you to supporters of The War Amps Key Tag Service, address labels are not just for envelopes. They can be used to identify items like books and for filling out name and address information on forms.

The War Amps receives no government grants.  Its programs are possible solely through public support of the Key Tag and Address Label Service.  For more information, or to order address labels, visit the War Amps' website, or call toll-free 1 800 250-3030.