🎙️ We’re Not Stumped – Breaking Barriers: Inspiring Stories of Amputees Achieving the Impossible
Join congenital right hand amputee host Mike Bolland in this episode of “We’re Not Stumped,” where we dive into three incredible stories of amputees who have defied the odds and achieved remarkable feats. 🌟
In this episode, we explore:
1. The First Female Double Amputee to Earn a Colorado CDL: Discover the groundbreaking journey of the first woman to earn a Colorado Class A Commercial Driver’s License as a double amputee. Her story is a powerful testament to determination and resilience. https://www.koaa.com/colorado-culture/the-first-female-double-amputee-to-earn-a-colorado-class-a-commercial-drivers-license
2. 12-Year-Old’s Journey After 30 Surgeries: Discover the heartwarming tale of a 12-year-old boy welcomed home by his community after enduring over 30 surgeries and the amputation of his leg. https://www.khq.com/news/12-year-old-welcomed-home-by-community-following-over-30-surgeries-and-getting-his-leg/article_fbafe9c8-6802-11ef-a383-7be58327217a.html
3. Ride to Unite: A Race Champion’s New Journey: Learn about the transformation of a former race champion who, after becoming an amputee, found a new calling that continues to inspire others. https://www.firstalert4.com/2024/09/01/ride-unite-new-calling-former-race-champion-turned-amputee/
These stories are a powerful reminder that, with determination and support, we can overcome any obstacle. Whether you’re interested in stories of perseverance, community support, or redefining success, this episode is filled with inspiration and hope.
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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.
What does it truly mean to be seen as fully human in a world that often overlooks disability? In this thought-provoking episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes back Dr. Stephanie W. Cawthon—an acclaimed deaf author, speaker, and researcher—for an honest and insightful conversation about identity, accessibility, and belonging. With ASL interpreters Amanda Ford and Steven Nugent joining, Dr. Cawthon shares the personal and cultural impact of her book Disability is Human, a work that has deeply influenced Mike’s own journey.
What’s the difference between being born with a limb difference and losing a limb later in life? In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland (born without a right hand) breaks down the emotional, physical, and social differences between congenital limb loss and adult amputation—two very different starting points that often lead to the same powerful resilience. Mike shares personal experiences, insights from recent guest interviews like Stevia Walker (who became an amputee in 2023), and stories from others who’ve learned to adapt and thrive no matter how their journey began. Whether you’ve lived with a limb difference your whole life, recently became an amputee, or support someone who has—this episode is for you.
Hello! This was such an inspiring read. Stories of amputees overcoming challenges and achieving the impossible are a powerful reminder of resilience and determination. Thank you for sharing these uplifting experiences and spreading motivation!