In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes Chris Baschuk, a trailblazer in upper limb prosthetics and the Director of Clinical Services at Point Designs. Chris also serves on the board of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists and is a proud ambassador for What Is POP, an organization working to expand the pipeline of professionals in Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Pedorthics.
Together, Mike and Chris explore the cutting edge of prosthetic innovation—from the rise of 3D printing in clinical care to the need for greater access, education, and advocacy for people with limb loss.
🔧 Chris shares his personal journey—from tinkering with tools as a child to mission work in Brazil that inspired his career in biomedical engineering and prosthetics. He explains how additive manufacturing is revolutionizing prosthetic options for partial hand amputees, and how companies like Point Designs are leading the charge with rugged, functional, and customizable prosthetic components.
💡 Topics include:
- The evolution of multi-articulated prosthetic hands
- Pattern recognition technology in upper limb devices
- Shifting from traditional fabrication to additive manufacturing
- Advocacy to improve reimbursement and coding for partial hand prosthetics
- Chris’s leadership in the Upper Limb Prosthetic Society
- Mentorship and outreach through the POP ambassador program
- What his election to the Academy’s board means for future care
Mike also shares a fun then-vs-now look at prosthetic technology by comparing his vintage 1970s prosthetic hand with today’s advanced solutions.
If you’re passionate about prosthetic innovation, limb difference advocacy, or the future of orthotic and prosthetic education, this episode is a must-listen.
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Ana L. Reyes’ story is one of unwavering faith, resilience, and service. In 2017, Ana was diagnosed with cancer, and three years later, she became an amputee. But her faith never wavered. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Ana has dedicated her life to her family, community, and ministry. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, she has also spent 20 years shaping young minds as a teacher. Alongside her husband, Rev. Marc Reyes, she has led Good Shepherd Ministries Church in West Haven, CT, for nearly two decades. Now an ordained minister, she continues to travel on missionary trips, serve her community, and inspire others through her book, Still Standing: An Amputee’s Story of Hope—a powerful testament to overcoming adversity through faith. Join us as Ana shares her incredible story of perseverance, proving that even in life’s greatest challenges, hope and faith can keep us standing.
In this episode of We're Not Stumped, we dive into the journey of a local teen who is redefining the game of softball. After undergoing a double amputation, she hasn’t just adapted—she’s excelling, competing at a high level, and proving that determination and passion can overcome any obstacle. Next, we spotlight A Leg Forever, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting amputees and their families. A Leg Forever Charitable Foundation was established by Elizabeth (Liz) Norden in honor of her two sons JP and Paul Norden who each lost a leg in the Boston Marathon bombings on April 15, 2013.
In this episode of We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Michael Allison, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Purple Heart recipient, best-selling author, and globally recognized leadership expert. As the CEO of The Adversity Academy, Michael has dedicated his career to helping individuals and organizations embrace resilience, accountability, and leadership. He shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship, the lessons learned in high-pressure combat zones, and his groundbreaking UN-Leadership and Break The Bottle – 3D methodologies. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on overcoming adversity, breaking limitations, and unlocking your full leadership potential.
