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/
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