“You’re lucky—you were born that way.”
“At least you lost your limb when you were young.”
Within the limb loss community, these statements can overlook a significant part of someone’s life. Adapting physically is only one part of living with a limb difference or limb loss – and this applies to people of all ages. The emotional and social challenges deserve equal consideration.
In this solo episode of We’re Not Stumped, I share my perspective as someone born without a right hand and challenge the assumption that people born with limb differences—or who experienced amputation as children—automatically have it easier. and I share a recent experience that shapes this conversation.
Through my podcast and community work, I’ve met people whose experiences include bullying, barriers to employment, difficulties forming relationships, and years of depression. While those experiences don’t all describe my own journey, they deserve to be heard and acknowledged.
Acquiring a disability later in life brings its own challenges, including grieving what someone has lost. Recognizing those challenges doesn’t require us to minimize someone else’s.
Each journey carries challenges that may not be visible from the outside. We build a stronger community when we listen to those experiences without deciding who has it easier.
Before we tell someone they’re lucky, let’s ask what their experience has actually been.
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
In Part 1 of this special episode, host Mike Bolland sits down with Emmy Award–winning journalist and Global PAD Association founder Kym McNicholas for an impromptu, post-interview discussion that turned into an insightful recording. What started as a quick chat evolved into a powerful conversation about Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), early detection, and Kym’s mission to raise global awareness and prevent unnecessary amputations.
After a life-threatening illness led to multiple amputations, Karlene Martinez refused to give up. In this powerful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland talks with Karlene about her incredible path from septic shock and paralysis to recovery, faith, and advocacy. Karlene opens up about: 💪 Her battle with sepsis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and months of rehabilitation 🦿 Adjusting to life with prosthetics and finding the right fit ❤️ Overcoming anxiety and depression through faith and gratitude 🌟 Empower Fest, Ability360, and finding inspiration in the adaptive community 👣 The importance of peer support through groups like Encompass Health and community ambassadors Karlene’s story is one of resilience, faith, and limitless determination—a reminder that even after life-changing loss, there’s always a way forward.
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland explores the power of the “I don’t give a crap” attitude — and how it can transform life after limb loss. Mike shares how letting go of judgment and embracing unapologetic confidence helps amputees find freedom, purpose, and joy. From learning to laugh at setbacks to defying expectations, this mindset is about living boldly — not bitterly. 💬 Topics covered: ✅ Why confidence matters more than comparison ✅ Turning self-doubt into strength ✅ How humor and attitude fuel resilience ✅ Real stories from the limb loss community 🎧 Tune in, get inspired, and start saying “I don’t give a crap” — in the best way possible.
