From Paralysis to Purpose: Dr. Kirsten Ludwig’s Journey as a Walking Quadriplegic

What happens when a life-changing accident forces you to redefine everything you thought was possible?

On this episode of the We’re Not Stumped podcast, I sit down with Dr. Kirsten Ludwig—a biomedical researcher, educator, former professional polo player, and advocate for disability inclusion in healthcare.

In 2021, Dr. Ludwig was paralyzed from the neck down during a horseback riding accident. Through determination, rehabilitation, and an incredible commitment to recovery, she became what she describes as a walking quadriplegic. Today, she combines her lived experience with her work as an Associate Professor of Biomedical Science at the Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine, helping educate future physicians about disability, accessibility, and patient-centered care.

In this episode, we discuss:

* 🐎 Her career as a professional polo player
* 🧬 Her work in biomedical research and medical education
* 💪 The horseback riding accident that changed her life
* 🎯 How setting one recovery goal at a time helped her regain independence
* ♿ Why disability inclusion belongs in every healthcare curriculum
* ❤️ Advice for anyone facing a life-changing injury

Dr. Ludwig’s story is one of resilience, hope, and purpose. Whether you’re living with a disability, working in healthcare, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.

🎙️ Subscribe to We’re Not Stumped for more conversations with people who are redefining what’s possible in the disability community.

#Disability #SpinalCordInjury #WalkingQuadriplegic #Healthcare #MedicalEducation #AdaptiveLiving #Accessibility #Resilience #DisabilityAdvocate #WereNotStumped

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Watch on YouTube

Listen on Spotify

  • 10 Years After Cancer: An Arizona Cardinals Crucial Catch Moment

October 15th, 2026|

Ten years after cancer surgery, Mike Bolland found himself on the field at an Arizona Cardinals game, representing all cancers during the NFL’s Crucial Catch recognition. In this personal episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike reflects on the journey from surgery and radiation to pursuing two goals: performing stand-up comedy and bowling on tour one more time. Those decisions helped lead to motivational speaking, a return to competition on the PBA60 Tour, and his message, “Take the Shot Anyway.” Mike also honors the podcast guests who have shared their own cancer journeys, including those who experienced limb loss, and the people whose support helped him through treatment and recovery.

  • Travel & EmpowerFest with Neomi Flores

October 13th, 2026|

In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Neomi Flores joins host Mike Bolland for an in-person conversation about traveling and EmpowerFest. Neomi is missing her left leg below the knee and brings her own perspective to the conversation. Neomi and Mike discuss experiences on the road and the connections made through events like EmpowerFest. Recorded together in person, this episode explores the value of meeting people and sharing experiences within the disability community. Have you attended EmpowerFest? What’s your favorite travel experience? We’d love to hear from you.

  • Your Story Belongs: Amputee Coalition Story Slam

October 9th, 2026|

Everyone has a story worth sharing—and at the 2027 Amputee Coalition National Conference, those stories will take center stage. It’s an honor for We're Not Stumped host Mike Bolland to serve as host and help create a welcoming space for the community’s voices. “Story Slam: Where Every Story Finds Its Light” brings the community together for an evening of laughter, connection, and five-minute stories. Twenty storytellers will be selected at random to share a moment from their lives. There’s no competition, no judging, and no expectation that a story must be inspirational or about limb loss or limb difference. In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland introduces the event and shares what attendees can look forward to.

By |July 7th, 2026|General Disability Related Resources and News|Comments Off on From Paralysis to Purpose: Dr. Kirsten Ludwig’s Journey as a Walking Quadriplegic

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

Go to Top