In this exciting episode of the We’re Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland engages in an inspiring and insightful conversation with Daruma cast members John Lawson, Abigail Hawk, and Tobias Forrest. Daruma is a landmark film, being the first in American cinematic history to cast both lead actors with disabilities.
The film stars Tobias Forrest (a C-level quadriplegic), John W. Lawson (a double hand amputee), Abigail Hawk of CBS’s Blue Bloods, and Barry Bostwick (The Rocky Horror Picture Show). It tells a story everyone can relate to—one of friendship, fatherhood, and found family.
In the interview, Mike Bolland, who himself has a limb difference, explores with the cast how Daruma tackles often-overlooked themes, such as the humor, resilience, and humanity within stories of disability. Together, they discuss how the film industry is evolving and the essential role that actors and storytellers with lived experiences play in this progress. John, Tobias, and Abigail share personal anecdotes from the set, reflecting on the power of genuine representation and the impact they hope the film will have on audiences. From humorous behind-the-scenes moments to heartfelt reflections, this conversation brings out the passion and dedication behind Daruma.
The cast also touches on the barriers people with disabilities have encountered in the film industry and how Daruma signals a step forward toward inclusivity in Hollywood. They discuss the importance of normalizing disability representation, their journey to find roles that allow them to tell authentic stories, and how Daruma exemplifies a broader trend toward genuine, multifaceted portrayals of people with disabilities.
Whether you’re interested in film, advocacy, or powerful stories that challenge perceptions, this episode offers a thought-provoking look at the making of Daruma and the collective mission of its cast and crew to bring a more inclusive vision to the silver screen.
Don’t miss this enriching interview with John Lawson, Abigail Hawk, and Tobias Forrest as they share their journeys, insights, and the message of Daruma—a movie that celebrates resilience, friendship, and the power of embracing one’s identity. Tune in and be part of a conversation that champions representation and redefines what it means to tell a story from the heart.
More Info: https://www.darumamovie.com
#DarumaMovie #InclusiveCinema #DisabilityRepresentation #WereNotStumped #BehindTheScenes
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
In this powerful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland shares two powerful stories of resilience, recovery, and the human spirit: 🏅 A Double Amputee’s Olympic Journey After surviving a devastating accident, this athlete didn’t give up—he set his sights on the Paralympic Games. Learn how he turned trauma into purpose, using adaptive training and relentless determination to pursue a spot on Team USA. 🦿 Mission Gait: Advancing Gait Rehabilitation Worldwide Meet the people behind Mission Gait, a nonprofit transforming the way physical therapists treat patients with complex walking challenges. From educational programs to international outreach, Mission Gait is creating a global movement for mobility. 🎧 Whether you're part of the limb loss community or just need a boost of hope, this episode shows what's possible when we move forward with purpose.
In this powerful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Eric Ford to talk about the car accident that changed the course of his life. In 2009, while driving through Atlanta with his children, Eric was struck by a drunk driver. Though his children escaped with only minor injuries, Eric was left with life-threatening damage to his leg. Over the next two months, Eric endured 12–13 surgeries, including skin and muscle grafts, in an attempt to save the leg. When the wound continued to reopen and the pain became unbearable, he made the courageous decision to undergo an amputation. Eric shares the emotional and physical challenges of that decision, and how it ultimately gave him a new lease on life.
Stevia Walker joins host Mike Bolland to share her powerful story of resilience after a life-altering car accident that left her with a fused cervical spine and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) in her right hand. After extensive research and consultations, Stevia made the courageous decision to undergo amputation of her hand—with the support of Dr. Stephen Niedermeyer. In this inspiring episode, Stevia reflects on rebuilding her life, from her former career as a hair stylist to her meaningful role today as a Girl Scout leader. She speaks candidly about living with phantom limb pain, her challenges with prosthetics, and how she empowers others by sharing her experiences. As a board member of the Dallas Amputee Network (DAN - https://dallasamputeenetwork.org/), Stevia highlights the nonprofit’s impactful work supporting amputees, caregivers, and families throughout North Texas. Founded in 2002, DAN provides education, peer mentorship, fitness opportunities, and social events like the upcoming Legapalooza fundraiser—all aimed at improving the quality of life for those affected by limb loss.
Leave A Comment