In this episode of “We’re Not Stumped,” host Mike Bolland engages in a heartfelt conversation with amputee Nick Pryor, the inspiring Athletics Program Manager at Ability360. Nick opens up about his journey from a small town in Dunkirk, Indiana, with a population of just 2,300, to becoming a pivotal figure in the world of adaptive sports.
Nick’s story begins with a life-changing incident when he was just 5 years old. A friend, recently gifted a shotgun, invited Nick and his older brother over to play, despite their mother’s warning to stay home. While Nick’s mom was busy cleaning the house, he snuck out, unaware of the danger ahead. As his friend tried to load the 12-gauge, it accidentally discharged, hitting Nick’s leg.
He was rushed to Riley Hospital in Indianapolis and endured weeks of intensive treatment. Despite the doctors’ efforts to save his leg, including a complex procedure using a muscle from his back, the damage was too severe. Ultimately, his parents made the difficult decision to amputate his leg—a choice that turned out to be the best for his future. Nick reflects on how having a prosthetic leg has allowed him a greater degree of functionality than he would have had otherwise.
Now, as a key member of Ability360, a leading nonprofit based in Phoenix, Arizona, dedicated to empowering people with disabilities, Nick channels his experience and resilience into helping others. Ability360 offers a wide array of programs, including adaptive sports, independent living, and advocacy, aiming to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities.
In this episode, Nick shares how Ability360’s athletics programs, from wheelchair basketball to adaptive climbing, provide not only physical fitness but also community and confidence for participants. He talks about the incredible athletes who redefine what’s possible and how his personal journey fuels his passion for inclusion and empowerment.
Join us for a conversation that transcends challenges and celebrates the strength of the human spirit. “We’re Not Stumped” brings you Nick Pryor’s story—a testament to overcoming adversity and the transformative power of adaptive sports.
Links:
Ability360: https://ability360.org/
Nick Pryor: https://www.nickpryor.org/
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In this episode of "We're Not Stumped," host Mike Bolland sits down with Jakob Kepka to discuss his remarkable journey. Jakob's life took a drastic turn after a workplace injury in 1979, leading to years of treatments, including repeated Cortisone shots, and ultimately six knee replacements between 2001 and 2013. Listen in as Jakob shares his story of resilience, overcoming physical challenges, and how he's turned his experiences into a mission of hope and inspiration called the "Hoperaising Expedition".
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