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
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Mike Bolland sits down with Jeanette Jones, a childhood cancer survivor who shares her remarkable story. Diagnosed with cancer as a child, Jeanette faced years of treatment in an effort to save her left leg. At age 16, she underwent a hip disarticulation — a complex amputation that removes the entire leg, including the femur, from the pelvis. Jeanette's resilience and determination in the face of these challenges will leave you inspired. Tune in for her powerful insights on adapting to life after amputation and thriving beyond adversity.
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