[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 145 (Thursday, September 27, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2005]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   OHIO WILLOW WOOD CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF HELPING THE ORTHOTIC AND 
                          PROSTHETIC INDUSTRY

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                          HON. DAVID L. HOBSON

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 27, 2007

  Mr. HOBSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 100th 
anniversary of the founding of Ohio Willow Wood, a leader in the 
prosthetic and orthotic industry. Over the years, the family-owned 
company based in Mt. Sterling, Ohio, has provided products to help 
amputees live full and active lifestyles.
  In 1907, Ohio Willow Wood was founded by William E. Arbogast, who 
personally experienced the challenges of living as an amputee from 
injuries he suffered in a railroad accident. His experience with 
poorly-fitting, uncomfortable and unreliable prosthetic products 
inspired him to establish Ohio Willow Wood.
  Over the next century, the company that started out making it easier 
for prosthetists to obtain quality materials for their patients, became 
a global leader in designing and manufacturing lower limb prosthetic 
components. Through innovative research and development, the company 
has been responsible for several breakthroughs in the prosthetic 
industry. These include the first American-made ``solid ankle, cushion 
heel'' (SACH) foot, and the Alpha Liner, which is the first fabric-
covered, gel interface system that improves the comfort and protection 
for prosthetic users. Ohio Willow Wood is also involved in research and 
development of new products and technology for the U.S. Army to use in 
its treatment of victims of lower extremity loss.
  In addition to designing and manufacturing prosthetic products, Ohio 
Willow Wood develops Computer Aided Design (CAD) software and equipment 
for the orthotic and prosthetic community. The company also has global 
distribution partners and direct offices in Germany, Sweden, and the 
Netherlands.
  While many aspects of Ohio Willow Wood have evolved and changed over 
the past 100 years, the company's commitment to the orthotic and 
prosthetic industry remains constant. Today, third and fourth 
generations of the Arbogast family are active in the daily operations 
of Ohio Willow Wood, standing by its promise to free the bodies and 
spirits of amputees.
  Madam Speaker, I commend all of the employees at Ohio Willow Wood for 
reaching this milestone, and I wish them continued success in the years 
to come.

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