University Hospitals (UH) in Cleveland has announced a $5 million gift from Lorraine and Bill Dodero to establish a limb preservation center in the Harrington Heart & Vascular Institute.

The Lorraine and Bill Dodero Limb Preservation Center aims to lessen the burden of amputation for patients at risk of losing a leg due to peripheral artery disease and diabetes. To that end, the center will research new and uninvestigated treatments for critical limb-threatening ischemia and diabetes associated with arterial diseases; educate more physicians at every level on innovations in vascular health and revascularization; and ensure patients facing amputation at UH and beyond know they have options.

“UH is committed to improving the health of all people by advancing science and human health,” said  UH Harrington Heart and Vascular Institute president Mehdi Shishehbor. “Statistically, amputees are disproportionately of lower socioeconomic status, and African Americans are up to four times more likely to undergo an amputation than white Americans. All people should have the opportunity to receive the necessary medical resources and support for a healthier life, regardless of their status in the community or their race.”

(Photo credit: Getty Images/FatCamera)