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 We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Christopher Rodriguez, CEO of Ability360, to discuss the organization's powerful role in promoting independence for individuals with disabilities. Learn about the wide range of programs and resources Ability360 offers, from adaptive sports to advocacy, and how they are transforming lives by empowering people to live fully and independently.
Host Mike Bolland highlights inspiring stories of resilience and recovery. We explore the latest in assistive technology and vocational resources at the VRATE Expo, empowering individuals with disabilities. Additionally, we celebrate the bravery of a double amputee Army veteran who skydived to kick off the Helping Heroes Golf Tournament, and share how amputee golfers gathered in New Jersey for a unique clinic, finding healing and camaraderie through the game.
In this episode of "We're Not Stumped," host Mike Bolland speaks with Sarah Dorman from Care 4 the Caregivers, Susan Purrington from Welcomed Here, and Irene Davis from the Down Syndrome Network of Arizona. Discover how Care 4 the Caregivers addresses burnout and PTSD-like symptoms for parents raising children with disabilities, how Welcomed Here helps businesses create more inclusive environments and how the Down Syndrome Network of Arizona supports individuals and families throughout their journey.
