Empowering Life Without Limits | Enhancing Skills for Life

In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Shawn Johnson, founder and executive director of Enhancing Skills for Life, and Mike St. Onge, board chairman and quadruple amputee, to explore the organization’s inspiring mission and impact.

Shawn, an occupational therapist with nearly three decades of prosthetic and rehabilitation experience, shares how Enhancing Skills for Life grew from its first workshop in 2002 into a global community serving people living without both arms or all four limbs. Mike reflects on his personal journey as a quadruple amputee, highlighting the strength of peer support and empowerment in rebuilding independence.

Discover how this nonprofit is transforming lives through:
✅ Workshops and skill-building events
✅ Adaptive equipment resources like the “Hands-Free Catalog”
✅ Scholarships, mentorship, and international participation
✅ Exciting future collaborations and upcoming workshops

Whether you’re part of the limb loss community or simply inspired by stories of resilience and hope, this conversation is packed with insight and heart.

🔗 Learn more: Enhancing Skills for Life

Video and Audio Podcast Production

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Watch on YouTube

Listen on Spotify

  • Arizona Teen Shooting Survivor Needs New Prosthetic to Play Football | Amputee Stories

October 31st, 2024|

In this episode of We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland dives into two powerful stories of resilience and determination. First, we learn about an Arizona teen and shooting survivor who needs a new prosthetic to continue playing the sport he loves: football. Mike explores the journey of recovery, the drive to stay in the game, and the community’s efforts to help him succeed. Then, hear about the life-changing impact of a generous GoFundMe donation from a Vanderbilt professor for a quadruple amputee. Discover how this incredible act of kindness transformed a life.

  • Daruma_Movie_John_Lawson_Abigail_Hawk_Toby_Forrest_Interview

October 29th, 2024|

In this exciting episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland engages in an inspiring and insightful conversation with Daruma cast members John Lawson (a double-hand amputee), Abigail Hawk (CBS's Blue Bloods), and Tobias Forrest (a C-level quadriplegic). Daruma is a landmark film, being the first in American cinematic history to cast both lead actors with disabilities. The film also stars Barry Bostwick (The Rocky Horror Picture Show) and tells a story everyone can relate to—one of friendship, fatherhood, and found family.

  • Amputee_Stories_October_24_2024_Podcast

October 24th, 2024|

In this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland highlights three powerful stories celebrating resilience, ability, and community support. We start with the Danny Awards, an inspiring initiative by Daniel's Music Foundation, recognizing the talents of musicians with disabilities. Next, we revisit the viral video of an amputee dog offering its owner a touching "ghost paw," capturing hearts worldwide. Finally, we share the moving story of a family coming together to renovate their home for a teen amputee courageously battling cancer. Tune in for these uplifting stories of triumph and support!

By |2025-09-16T07:55:09-07:00September 16th, 2025|General Disability Related Resources and News, Quad Amputees|Comments Off on Empowering Life Without Limits | Enhancing Skills for Life

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

Go to Top