Congenital vs. Acquired Limb Loss: 2 Starting Points Same Powerful Resilience.

What’s the difference between being born with a limb loss 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.

More about Mike Bolland: Limb Loss Speaker

Be a guest!

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Watch on YouTube

Listen on Spotify

  • Melinda Preciado: From ER Professional to Disability Advocate After Limb Loss

April 28th, 2026|

What happens when your life changes overnight—and you have to rebuild from the ground up? In this powerful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland talks with Melinda Preciado, a former ER professional turned disability advocate, about her life-changing journey after becoming an above-knee amputee in 2021 following a rare and devastating medical complication. Melinda shares the realities of life after amputation, challenges with prosthetics and accessibility, misconceptions about disability benefits, and why advocacy matters. She also opens up about social support, finding community through Miss Wheelchair, and using her story to inspire others. An honest conversation about resilience, identity, and discovering strength beyond limits.

  • Kim Ousley Amplitude

April 21st, 2026|

In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland sits down with Kim Ousley to share her powerful amputee story—from a synovial sarcoma diagnosis to limb loss, recovery, and becoming a leader in amputee support and advocacy. As a certified peer support visitor and advocate, Kim is helping others navigate life after amputation with honesty, resilience, and real-world insight. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in amputee life, disability, recovery after limb loss, and stories of overcoming adversity.

  • Limb Preservation Foundation: Support, Recovery

April 14th, 2026|

What kind of support truly makes a difference during limb loss or limb preservation? In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland sits down with Laurie Gillman from the Limb Preservation Foundation to explore the programs helping individuals navigate some of life’s toughest moments. Laurie shares how LPF provides financial assistance, emotional support through peer groups, and educational resources designed to help people focus on healing and recovery. They also discuss the upcoming symposium, mental health initiatives, and the importance of community, caregiving, and celebrating small wins along the journey.

By |May 22nd, 2025|General Disability Related Resources and News|Comments Off on Congenital vs. Acquired Limb Loss: 2 Starting Points Same Powerful Resilience.

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

Go to Top