Ana-Maria Gutierrez

Recent Articles

Explore a featured selection of my writing work below.
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

Amputee Coalition Advocates for Inclusive Census Disability Assessment Questions

(Washington, DC, February 28, 2024) As representatives and advocates for the limb loss and limb difference (LLLD) community, the Amputee Coalition issued a formal request urging the U.S. Census Bureau to reconsider its proposed transition from the current disability questions used in the American Community Survey (ACS) to the Washington Group Short Set (WGSS) of questions.

In a detailed letter addressed to the Census Bureau, the Amputee Coalition expressed concerns about the potential negative
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

The Crowned Jewel Advocating to Adapt America for All

During Amputee Coalition’s 2022 National Conference, I was instantly drawn across the room to a smiling woman, proudly donning her crown and sash. Her name is Melinda Preciado, 2022 Ms. Wheelchair Oregon. I had the pleasure of hearing her incredible story of survival and perseverance.

Melinda worked for 17 years as an ER Tech/CNA2 health care professional. After her last day working in the Emergency Department, she had a tragic accident. In January 2021, Melinda experienced a traumatic event th
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

FRIENDS AND FAMILY: The Major with a Heart of a Lion

By Ana-Maria Gutierrez

Major Edward Pulido is an award-winning veteran who served on the U.S. Army Military Assistance Training Team under the command of General David Petraeus. On August 17, 2004, Major Pulido’s life changed when his convoy hit a roadside bomb. He describes it as the most challenging day of his life when he came face to face with death. He underwent a 17-hour surgery and several blood transfusions to save his life.
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

2024 National Athlete Advocate Ambassador Campaign Announces John Register

The Amputee Coalition announces to the inaugural 2024 National Athlete Advocate Ambassador Campaign, movement initiator, Gulf War Army Veteran, four-time track and field All-American, two-time Olympic trials qualifier, and long-time Amputee Coalition supporter, advocate, and current Board Member, John Register. The 2024 campaign was created to enhance the Amputee Coalition community voice through targeted messaging collaboratively shared in unison with athletes willing to utilize their social me
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

Amputee Coalition Signs on to CCD’s Letter Regarding Nurse Staffing Standards

The Amputee Coalition recently signed on to the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities’ (CCD) comment letter on the proposed rule to establish nurse staffing standards for long-term care facilities. Having well-staffed facilities and a supported workforce is vital to quality long-term care and the letter expresses support for the improvements this rule aims to implement.

However, the CCD Long Term Services and Supports (LTSS) Task Force feels the minimum staffing levels proposed in the r
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

Triumph Over Tragedy: A Journey of Mental Strength and Resilience

As we close out Mental Health Awareness Month, we wanted to share Gini Thomas‘ story of resilience and inspiration. In August 2012, a devastating motorcycle accident changed Gini’s life forever. A driver, who ran through a stop sign, collided with her and her husband. Tragically, her husband of only 17 months died instantly, and she suffered extensive injuries, including multiple fractures in her right leg. Despite the intense pain and the shock Gini experienced, she displayed remarkable mental
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

The Amputee Coalition Signs On to Letter on Nondiscrimination and Web Accessibility

Since its onset, the internet has created an opportunity for people with disabilities to have greater access to services, health care, and other benefits. To ensure the highest standards of accessibility are maintained online, the Amputee Coalition recently signed on to ITEM Coalition’s letter on nondiscrimination on the basis of disability regarding accessibility of web information and services of state and local government entities.

The letter commented on the Department of Justice’s Proposed
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

Paralympic Champion Blake Leeper Joins National Conference Lineup!

The Amputee Coalition is excited to announce that Blake Leeper will join the main stage as one of the keynote speakers at ACNC24!

Blake Leeper is an eight-time Paralympic Track and Field international medalist, world record holder, and three-time American record holder. Over 400 meters, he’s the fastest adaptive runner in Team USA History and the only one to ever do it in under 45 seconds.

Blake hasn’t only conquered adversities but has transformed them into powerful motivation, achieving extr
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

Advocacy and Empowerment: Kyle Stepp's Journey in the Limb Loss Community

In a candid conversation with Kyle Stepp, an above-knee amputee from Albuquerque, New Mexico, we delve into his remarkable journey in the limb loss community. Kyle’s journey began after a downhill mountain bike accident led to the destruction of metal implants in his leg, originally placed there at age 14 due to osteosarcoma. Since then, Kyle has not only embraced his new reality but has become a passionate advocate for amputees’ rights and access to proper prosthetics. He has actively engaged w
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

Amputee Coalition Expresses Support for the Medicare Orthotics and Prosthetics Patient-Centered Care Act

The Amputation Coalition recently provided a comment letter in support of The Medicare Orthotic and Prosthetic Patient-Centered Care Act (H.R. 4315) introduced on June 23, 2023, in the U.S. House of Representatives. The purpose of the act is to improve access to prosthetic and orthotic care for Medicare beneficiaries living with limb loss or limb difference through its major provisions.

This act will ensure orthotic, and prosthetic (“O&P”) patients have access to quality care by allowing certif
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

Addiction Resources for BIPOC Populations

“Racial/ethnic, gender, and sexual minorities often suffer from poor mental health outcomes due to multiple factors, including inaccessibility of high-quality mental healthcare services, cultural stigma surrounding mental healthcare, discrimination, and overall lack of awareness about mental health,” according to Psychiatry.org.

PeopleWithDisabilities.com lists many and varied reasons why disabilities contribute to mental health problems.

It stands to reason that members of the Black, Indigeno
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

Join Us at the 2024 Amputee Coalition National Conference!

Embrace the spirit of “Celebrating Connection” at the 2024 National Conference, where we honor and engage our vibrant community. At ACNC24, every encounter holds the potential for networking, connection, education, and personal growth. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned participant, mark your calendars for August 8-10 at the esteemed Hyatt Regency Atlanta. Secure your spot now to take advantage of our special discounted rate until June 4.

Join us as we unite, share stories, and
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

Embracing Resilience: Alexus Williams’ Journey

Personal stories have the power to touch our hearts and remind us of the strength within us. Alexus Williams’ remarkable life journey as an amputee exemplifies resilience, courage, and the triumph of the human spirit. In her candid account, she shares the highs and lows, the struggles and victories, and the unwavering determination that led her to embrace her true self.

Join us as we delve into Alexus’ world—where adversity became a catalyst for growth, where isolation transformed into connecti
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

Celebrating the Success of LLLDAM24!

As we reach the end of April, the Amputee Coalition thanks our entire community for all your tremendous efforts contributing to the undeniable success of this year’s Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month (LLLDAM) campaign. Throughout April, we spearheaded numerous initiatives to raise awareness and foster engagement:
• None This year, we are thrilled to announce that, to date, we have confirmed recognizing LLLDAM! This incredible milestone is nearly triple the number of approved proclama
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

The Amputee Coalition Celebrates Forward Strides in 2022

The Amputee Coalition boasted three major accomplishments in 2022:
• The largest was a return to our annual conference, where we connected, engaged, and created synergy. Members got to come together in person after the pandemic interruption and reconnect with old friends and make new ones in Palm Desert, California.
• The second major accomplishment was the return of Youth Camp. Youth living with limb loss and limb difference had a fantastic time learning, creating new and growing old friendship
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

The Amputee Coalition National Conference: A Life-Changing Experience

Join us for the leading event for the limb loss and limb difference community! Themed Celebrating Connection, the 2024 National Conference celebrates and engages our diverse community.

You never know who you might meet at the Amputee Coalition National Conference, but chances are it will be someone with an incredible story. Whether you’re attending for the first time or annually, your next opportunity to see what it’s all about is Aug. 8-10 at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta. Register soon to enjoy t
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

Celebrating the Strength of Our Community: #WeThrive Stories

April marks a significant time for the limb loss and limb difference community as we come together to raise awareness, share our stories, and celebrate our resilience. At the Amputee Coalition, we are proud to highlight the remarkable journeys of our community members through the #WeThrive campaign.

Each story shared during Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month serves as a testament to the strength and determination of individuals navigating life with limb loss or limb difference. These
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

Join Us in Celebrating Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month!

The Amputee Coalition is excited to announce the start of Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, promoting acceptance, and celebrating our community.

We encourage you to join us in spreading awareness about what it’s like to live with limb loss and limb difference and promoting acceptance of our community throughout April. Whether you participate by attending webinars, sharing information on social media, or simply learning more about the experienc
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

From Coast to Coast: Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Spreads Nationwide

As we continue to celebrate Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, we are excited to share that we have received proclamations from 28 states nationwide! This incredible achievement speaks volumes about our community’s growing recognition and support.

These proclamations not only signify official recognition but also serve as a testament to the collective commitment to promoting inclusivity, understanding, and accessibility for individuals with limb loss or limb differences. With each p
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

Empower Your Heart During American Heart Month

In February, we immerse ourselves in the warmth of love while also dedicating this time to recognizing the vital element that keeps us thriving – our heart.

Maintaining a healthy heart is the best way we can show up for ourselves and others, especially during American Heart Month. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, but we have the power to take charge of our health and make intentional decisions to live heart-healthy lifestyles. Every February, this month encourag
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

From Tragedy to Triumph: Jean Mwale's Journey of Resilience, Hope, and Advocacy

Lead Advocate and 2023 Values in Action award recipient Jean Mwale shares her remarkable journey of battling cancer twice and surviving septic shock, which resulted in multiple amputations. Initially discovering a lump on her throat, she received a devastating cancer diagnosis. After enduring ten months of chemotherapy, she was informed that having children was unlikely. However, defying the odds, she joyously welcomed twins into the world.

Soon after she faced another bout of illness, this tim
THRIVE - Amputee Coalition Blog •

Craig Foster's Journey from Adversity to Advocacy

Craig Foster’s journey is a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. As a left leg below the knee amputee forced into retirement by health issues in 2017, he knows firsthand the daunting challenges life can throw our way. In 2019, faced with the stark reality of amputation, Craig made the courageous decision to undergo surgery.

But Craig’s story doesn’t end with his surgery; it’s where his mission truly began. Stepping into a new role as an active member and counselor with the Amputee
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