Join us on this episode of the “We’re Not Stumped” podcast as we welcome a special guest from United Cerebral Palsy of Central Arizona (UCP), Gail Stelling and Robin Emerson. For over 70 years, UCP has been a cornerstone of hope and support for individuals with disabilities in Arizona. Though their name highlights their work with cerebral palsy, UCP’s dedicated team extends their expertise far beyond, providing comprehensive care and services to children and adults with a wide array of disabilities.
Gail and Robin will share the remarkable journey of UCP, one of Arizona’s oldest and most respected non-profit health and human service organizations. With a commitment to fostering independence and improving the quality of life, UCP annually impacts the lives of over 700 individuals with disabilities. Through a holistic approach that encompasses physical, developmental, and educational support, they help unlock the unique gifts and talents within each person they serve.
In this insightful conversation, we will explore the diverse programs UCP offers, from early childhood development to adult services, each designed to provide the highest quality care at every stage of life. You’ll hear inspiring stories of resilience and success, highlighting how UCP’s compassionate experts make a lasting difference in the community.
Whether you’re a family member seeking support, a caregiver looking for resources, or someone passionate about disability advocacy, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration. Learn how UCP’s mission to help individuals with disabilities reach their full potential continues to shape lives and communities for generations to come.
Links:
UCP Website: https://ucpofcentralaz.org/
UCP Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucpofcentralaz/
Contact UCP by Phone: (602) 943-5472
Contact UCP by Email: info@ucpofcentralaz.org
#cerebralpalsy #cerebralpalsyawareness #disability #disabilityawareness #specialneeds #cp #inclusion #cerebralpalsykids #cerebralpalsywarrior #wheelchair #cpwarrior #disabled #disabilityadvocate #physicaltherapy #physiotherapy #cpawareness #love #occupationaltherapy #awareness #cerebralpalsystrong #cerebralpalsymom #support
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Joslynn Bigelow, founder and CEO of Say How Consulting, for a powerful conversation on disability advocacy, system navigation, and the importance of dignity of risk. Joslynn shares her personal journey into advocacy, the launch of her consulting business, and her five guiding principles for creating inclusive services: dignity of risk, individual readiness, assess and address, authentic experience, and realistic opportunities. The discussion dives into: ✅ Why “say how” means finding solutions when systems say “no” ✅ The role of dignity of risk in fostering independence and inclusion ✅ The origins and growth of the United Adaptive Soccer Association (UASA) ✅ The challenges of advancing inclusion in adaptive sports ✅ The unique opportunities upcoming global sporting events offer for disability awareness
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Shawn Johnson, founder and executive director of Enhancing Skills for Life, and Mike St. Onge, board chairman and quadruple amputee, to explore the organization’s inspiring mission and impact. Shawn, an occupational therapist with nearly three decades of prosthetic and rehabilitation experience, shares how Enhancing Skills for Life grew from its first workshop in 2002 into a global community serving people living without both arms or all four limbs. Mike reflects on his personal journey as a quadruple amputee, highlighting the strength of peer support and empowerment in rebuilding independence. Discover how this nonprofit is transforming lives through: ✅ Workshops and skill-building events ✅ Adaptive equipment resources like the “Hands-Free Catalog” ✅ Scholarships, mentorship, and international participation ✅ Exciting future collaborations and upcoming workshops Whether you’re part of the limb loss community or simply inspired by stories of resilience and hope, this conversation is packed with insight and heart.
In 2013, Armeda Batchler made the life-altering decision to amputate her left leg above the knee after being diagnosed with osteosarcoma—just months after becoming a new mother. Determined to push forward, she balanced recovery, parenting, and work with remarkable strength. Yet behind the resilience, Armeda faced hidden struggles: depression, isolation, and the difficulty of asking for help. Over time, she discovered the healing power of connection, rebuilding a local amputee support group and embracing advocacy to support others walking a similar path. In this heartfelt conversation, Armeda opens up about her cancer journey, the challenges of raising her daughter while adapting to limb loss, and how hope and community helped her transform struggle into purpose.
Leave A Comment