Critical Limb Ischemia: Black Patients Face 46% Higher Amputation Rates - One Family’s Fight to Save a Leg

The Heart of Innovation with Kym McNicholas

When Jae’s mother faced amputation due to Critical Limb Ischemia (CLI) an advanced stage of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) in rural Louisiana, she refused to accept it as the only option. Despite being told there were no alternatives, Jae discovered the truth: not all PAD specialists have the skills to treat advanced cases.

This episode comes at a crucial time. A May 2025 study from @SCAI reveals Black patients with CLI face a 46% higher chance of amputation and are 10% less likely to see vascular specialists before treatment.

CLI is more deadly than breast, colon, and prostate cancer COMBINED—and outcomes worsen dramatically after amputation.

Listen as Jae shares how she: • Fought against medical gaslighting • Found help through the @GlobalPADAssociation’s Leg Saver Hotline (1-833-PAD-LEGS) • Connected with CLI specialist Dr. Amit Amin who successfully opened her mother’s arteries

This story could save someone’s leg—or life. Share widely.

#SaveALeg #PADAwareness #HealthcareEquity #CLI #PeripheralArteryDisease #PatientAdvocacy