In this deeply moving episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with amputee Eric Ford to talk about the life-altering car accident that changed everything. In 2009, Eric and his children were hit by a drunk driver in Atlanta. While his kids miraculously walked away with minor injuries, Eric suffered catastrophic damage to his leg, leading to over a dozen surgeries in an attempt to save it.
Ultimately, Eric made the brave decision to undergo amputation—a choice that ended his physical pain and opened the door to a new way of living. He opens up about the emotional toll of limb loss, learning to walk with a prosthetic, and finding strength through his children, therapy, and connecting with fellow amputees.
Mike and Eric also reflect on their shared roots in Montclair, New Jersey, and discuss the importance of community support for new amputees. Eric now uses his experience to help others facing similar challenges.
This episode is a powerful reminder that even in the face of trauma, there is always a path forward.
Topics Covered:
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Surviving a drunk driving accident
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Making the decision to amputate
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Life after limb loss
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Recovery and prosthetic use
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Mental health and adaptation
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Support networks for amputees
#EricFord #WereNotStumped #AmputeePodcast #MikeBolland #DrunkDrivingSurvivor #AmputeeSupport #MentalStrength #AdaptiveLife #RecoveryJourney #AmputeeAdvocate
Host Mike Bolland is also an entertaining public speaker. Contact him for your next event.
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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.
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, we highlight two incredible stories of resilience and empowerment. First, we celebrate Forreston High School wrestler Lucas Nelson, who recently reached his 100th career win—an impressive feat made even more inspiring by the fact that he competes with a limb difference. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, proving that hard work and determination can overcome any challenge. We also spotlight Penta Prosthetics, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making prosthetic devices more accessible to those in need. With millions of people worldwide unable to afford proper prosthetic care, Penta Prosthetics works to bridge the gap by recycling, refurbishing, and redistributing prosthetic limbs to individuals who need them most. Their mission is transforming lives, giving people the mobility and independence they deserve.
Listen as Mike Bolland delves into inspiring and impactful stories that highlight resilience and adaptability. Mike begins by discussing a life-changing camping trip that led to a double leg amputation after a severe burn and sepsis—an incredible journey of survival and recovery. He also shares surprising news about actor David Tennant revealing he was born with a rare medical condition, shedding light on hidden challenges faced by public figures. Additionally, Mike highlights the incredible work of Be More Adaptive™, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering innovation for the disability community through adaptive technology and resources.
