What helps someone build confidence after years of being treated differently? For burn survivor and amputee Kevon Martorell, basketball, self-advocacy, and community have all played a role.
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Kevon joins host Mike Bolland to discuss growing up with visible differences, navigating life after amputation, and creating adaptive fitness resources for people with disabilities.
Growing Up as a Burn Survivor
Kevon survived severe burns covering 80% of his body as a toddler. Growing up, he faced bullying, medical complications, and barriers to participating in sports.
He shares how those experiences shaped his confidence and his willingness to speak up for himself. His story offers a personal perspective on the challenges of growing up with visible differences and finding places where you feel included.
Life After Amputation and Learning to Advocate for Yourself
Kevon later underwent a leg amputation, bringing new challenges to his recovery and everyday life. He discusses navigating limb loss and why advocating for your care matters.
Mike and Kevon explore how personal experiences can help people understand their needs, ask questions, and take a more active role in decisions affecting their lives.
Building Confidence Through Basketball
Basketball became an important part of Kevon’s story. He describes how participating in sports helped him develop confidence and find connection.
Their conversation explores what access to movement and adaptive sports can mean for people who have encountered barriers to participation.
Adapt and Triumph: Adaptive Fitness and Nutrition
Kevon’s experiences inspired him to create Adapt and Triumph, an adaptive fitness and nutrition app.
He discusses the motivation behind the app and the importance of developing resources that reflect different bodies and abilities. The conversation considers how fitness can become more welcoming when people’s individual needs are part of the planning.
Learn more at Adapt and Triumph.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode
- Kevon’s experiences growing up as a burn survivor
- Navigating limb loss and life after a leg amputation
- Finding confidence and connection through basketball
- Speaking up and advocating for your care
- The inspiration behind Adapt and Triumph
- Building community for people with disabilities
Listen to Kevon Martorell on We’re Not Stumped
Hear Kevon’s conversation with Mike Bolland for an honest look at recovery, adaptive fitness, and the value of being understood.
What has helped you build confidence or find community? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Explore more disability stories, conversations about limb loss, and experiences with accessibility at We’re Not Stumped.
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
In this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland shares two stories of courage and perseverance. The episode highlights a shark attack survivor who turned to crowdfunding after being denied insurance coverage for a prosthetic hand. This journey showcases the challenges of insurance in the area of prosthetics.
In this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland welcomes Nicole Cuervo, the founder and CEO of Springrose, a groundbreaking company redefining adaptive intimates for women with disabilities, limited mobility, and chronic pain. Nicole’s passion for inclusivity and empowerment stems from her own personal experiences. Inspired by her grandmother Rose, who lived with arthritis and chronic pain, Nicole realized the lack of functional yet fashionable clothing options for women facing similar challenges. In 2020, she launched Springrose to fill that gap, blending innovation with empathy to create a line of intimates that prioritize comfort, style, and accessibility.
In this inspiring episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland explores three incredible stories of resilience, community, and inclusion: 🌟 A Marine veteran and double amputee shares how jiu-jitsu has transformed his life, bringing peace and purpose through the sport. 🎅 Discover how an amputee center's holiday program welcomed Santa to spread joy and foster community spirit. 💡 Learn about Diverse Ability Incorporated and their groundbreaking work in creating inclusive opportunities for people of all abilities. Join us for heartfelt discussions on overcoming challenges, celebrating diversity, and building stronger, more inclusive communities. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more uplifting stories!
