In this episode of the We’re Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland welcomes Allison Sweet Grant, author of I Am The Cage, a powerful novel inspired by her own medical experiences.
Allison shares her journey of undergoing the Lizarov limb-lengthening procedure as a teenager and how those experiences shaped her writing. Like her protagonist Elisabeth, Allison grappled with feelings of isolation, a lack of agency, and the struggle to be heard in a confusing healthcare system. She opens up about translating her personal trauma into fiction, creating a character who faces her own battles with bodily autonomy and self-forgiveness.
The conversation delves into the significance of Elisabeth’s friendship with Kacey, the importance of exploring identity formation, and how I Am The Cage encourages readers to confront their challenges and find their voices. Allison also discusses the toll secrecy can take on mental health, the complexity of familial relationships, and the lessons she hopes young readers will take away from Elisabeth’s story.
This episode is a moving exploration of resilience, healing, and empowerment through storytelling. Whether you’re an advocate for bodily autonomy or someone seeking inspiration, this discussion will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.
📘 Learn more about I Am The Cage by Allison Sweet Grant: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/authors/2198420/allison-sweet-grant/
🎧 Subscribe to We’re Not Stumped for more empowering stories: https://werenotstumped.com/were-not-stumped-amputee-podcast-mailing-list/
#WereNotStumped #IAmTheCage #AllisonSweetGrant #BodilyAutonomy #OvercomingTrauma
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
Ana L. Reyes’ story is one of unwavering faith, resilience, and service. In 2017, Ana was diagnosed with cancer, and three years later, she became an amputee. But her faith never wavered. 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. Now an ordained minister, she continues to travel on missionary trips, serve her community, and inspire others through her book, Still Standing: An Amputee’s Story of Hope—a powerful testament to overcoming adversity through faith. Join us as Ana shares her incredible story of perseverance, proving that even in life’s greatest challenges, hope and faith can keep us standing.
In this episode of We're Not Stumped, 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. Next, we spotlight A Leg Forever, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting amputees and their families. A Leg Forever Charitable Foundation was established by Elizabeth (Liz) Norden in honor of her two sons JP and Paul Norden who each lost a leg in the Boston Marathon bombings on April 15, 2013.
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 entrepreneurship, the lessons learned in high-pressure combat zones, and his groundbreaking UN-Leadership and Break The Bottle – 3D methodologies. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on overcoming adversity, breaking limitations, and unlocking your full leadership potential.
