We're Not Stumped - Centering on life stories of the Limb Loss / Amputee and Disabled Communities

What happens when we stop trying to “fix” disability—and start listening instead?

In this compelling episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes back Dr. Stephanie W. Cawthon, a deaf researcher, speaker, and author of Disability is Human. Joined by ASL interpreters Amanda Ford and Steven Nugent, Dr. Cawthon dives into the lived realities of the disabled and Deaf communities—and what true inclusion really means.

From navi...

What’s it like to grow up with a limb difference compared to losing a limb later in life? Host Mike Bolland—who was born without his right hand—dives into these two distinct paths, highlighting how they shape identity, resilience, and daily life.

Through personal insights and stories from guests like Stevia Walker, who became an amputee in 2023, Mike explores how both congenital and acquired limb loss present unique challenges—and u...

In this heartfelt episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes actress, model, and disability advocate Jessica Frew. Born with cerebral palsy and using an eye gaze machine to communicate, Jess opens up about the emotional journey of finding her voice—from early hesitations and a painful regret about her late father to becoming a powerful force for disability awareness.

She and Mike discuss the challenges of being nonverb...

 After a devastating motorcycle accident changed his life forever, Kijuan Amey could have stayed stuck in the question, “Why me?” Instead, he chose a path of healing, faith, and unshakable resilience. In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Kijuan shares the raw truth of his journey—from the trauma of blindness to the triumph of reclaiming purpose. Whether you’re facing your own setback or simply need a dose of inspiration, Kijuan’s ...

 In this episode, host Mike Bolland delves into the extraordinary journey of Carter Henning, a freshman at Calamus-Wheatland High School in Iowa. Just two months after a devastating snowmobile accident led to the amputation of his left leg, Carter not only returned to the golf course but also ascended to the top spot on his varsity team. His unwavering determination and love for the game have made him a beacon of resilience and ins...

 In this episode, we sit down with Vanessa Abraham, a certified Speech-Language Pathologist whose life took an unexpected turn when she became the patient. After a sudden illness left her paralyzed and unable to speak, Vanessa faced the daunting task of reclaiming her voice and identity.​ 

Vanessa shares her harrowing experience of battling Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS), the emotional toll of being unable to communicate, and h...

 In this inspiring episode of We’re Not Stumped, we spotlight adaptive athlete Tracy LaMarche as she takes on the Ride to End ALZ South Carolina—a three-day cycling journey across the state with deep personal meaning. After losing her leg, Tracy found freedom and strength through cycling. Now, she rides to honor her late mother-in-law, who battled dementia, and to support vital Alzheimer’s research. Riding alongside her husband Bla...

 In this powerful episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland sits down with Kelvin Crosby , a remarkable individual whose journey from hearing loss and blindness to becoming an inventor, artist, and advocate will leave you inspired. Diagnosed with hearing loss as a child, Kelvin later lost his vision due to Usher Syndrome Type 2. He opens up about the emotional toll this took on him, including thoughts of suicide, and the turning p...

 Join us as we delve into the groundbreaking work of Dr. Eric Martin, Chief of Vascular Surgery at OSF HealthCare Saint Francis Medical Center, and recipient of the 2025 OSF Innovator of the Year award. Dr. Martin's regenerative reconstruction techniques are offering new hope to patients facing potential amputations due to severe infections, traumatic injuries, or chronic ulcers. Utilizing biological materials like fish skin a...

 Tom Jalinski, a double amputee from Littleton, is taking on a monumental challenge—hiking all 1,200 miles of Wisconsin’s Ice Age National Scenic Trail. In this episode, Tom shares his inspiring journey, from his past as an avid climber to the rigorous training he’s undergone to prepare for this six-month trek. He discusses the physical and mental challenges amputees face, his goal of raising awareness about life after limb loss, a...

 In this impactful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland speaks out about a disturbing incident from the UK, where a woman without limb loss took to social media to mock individuals with visible limb differences—specifically targeting those with “nubs.” Mike calls out the cruelty and ignorance behind her actions, while emphasizing an important point: don’t give bullies the attention they crave. 

Sharing her posts only give...

In this episode, we welcome Adrienne Hill, a certified prosthetist orthotist (CPO) and Program Director of the Master’s of Science in Prosthetics and Orthotics at Kennesaw State University. With a background in physics, mathematics, and health administration, Adrienne brings a unique perspective to the field. Her passion for prosthetics and orthotics is deeply personal—both her great-grandfather and father were amputees, inspiring ...

 In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland shares his candid thoughts on Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month — and why he believes awareness shouldn't be limited to just one month a year. Born without a right hand, Mike reflects on his lived experiences and how, for decades, many didn’t pay attention to people like him until they themselves became part of the limb loss community. 

He challenges listeners...

 In this episode of We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes Dr. Stephanie Cawthon, a disabled author, speaker, and researcher, to discuss her groundbreaking new book, Disability as Human. As a professor at the University of Texas at Austin and the founder of the National Disability Center for Student Success, Stephanie wears many professional "hats" in her mission to advance accessibility and disability inclusi...

 Ana L. Reyes’ story is one of unwavering faith, resilience, and service. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Ana has dedicated her life to her family, community, and ministry. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, she has also spent 20 years shaping young minds as a teacher. Alongside her husband, Rev. Marc Reyes, she has led Good Shepherd Ministries Church in West Haven, CT, for nearly two decades. 

In 2017, Ana was diagnosed w...

 In this episode of We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland highlights two powerful stories of perseverance, athleticism, and community support. First, we dive into the journey of a local teen who is redefining the game of softball. After undergoing a double amputation, she hasn’t just adapted—she’s excelling, competing at a high level, and proving that determination and passion can overcome any obstacle. Her story is an inspirat...

 In this episode of We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Michael Allison, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Purple Heart recipient, best-selling author, and globally recognized leadership expert. As the CEO of The Adversity Academy, Michael has dedicated his career to helping individuals and organizations embrace resilience, accountability, and leadership. He shares his journey from military service to entrepreneursh...

In this episode of We're Not Stumped, we highlight two remarkable stories of resilience and determination. First, we dive into the journey of Parker Byrd, the East Carolina University baseball player who became the first NCAA baseball athlete to play with a prosthetic leg. After a life-altering boating accident, Parker refused to let his dream slip away, proving that perseverance can redefine what’s possible in sports.

Next, we...

 Linda Moore doesn’t just want to walk again—she wants to dance. In this inspiring episode of We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Linda, a 69-year-old from Rantoul, Illinois, whose determination and humor carried her through a challenging above-knee amputation and intense rehabilitation. After losing her leg in November 2024, she underwent three weeks of rigorous therapy at OSF HealthCare Heart of Mary Medical ...