We're Not Stumped Limb Loss Support

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

August 8th, 2024|

Join Mike as he discusses Amputee Veterans and VA Care, Cyclist with Above-the-Knee Amputation, New Mom Facing Online Trolls: Hear the emotional account of a new mom who faced backlash online for having a baby born with transverse limb deficiency - which means she doesn't have full arms and legs.

Read More
  • Amputee Resource Podcast

August 1st, 2024|

In this episode, we bring you three incredible limb loss stories of resilience and triumph. 1. Diveheart Deep Pool Project, 2. Sports Hero's Journey 3. Amputees Learning to Walk Again

Read More
  • Empowering the Disabled Community: Creating Employment Opportunities | Hugh Boyle from Doable Agency

July 30th, 2024|

In this episode, we have the honor of speaking with Hugh Boyle from Doable Agency. 🌟 Join us as Hugh shares his inspiring journey of resilience and determination. After a right leg below-the-knee amputation, Hugh not only overcame personal challenges but also founded Doable Agency, a trailblazing company that predominantly employs individuals with disabilities

Read More
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!

FacebookXRedditLinkedInWhatsAppTumblrPinterestVkEmail

Related Posts

Down Syndrome, Fitness & Meaningful Employment | Coach Cam’s Journey
From 13 Surgeries to Inventing the X-Leg with Reid Robinson
10% Chance of Survival: Vincent Van de Broeck’s TBI & Coma Recovery
Hanger Foundation’s Night to Inspire 2026: Rob Pittman on Supporting the Limb Loss Community
Limb Salvage vs. Amputation: When Is Saving the Limb Not the Best Outcome

Find Us On

Mike Bolland PBA Bound!

What happens when you step back into something you once loved… years later? In this special episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland shares the story behind his bowling comeback — from becoming the first person with limb loss to compete on the PBA Tour to stepping back onto the lanes with a renewed sense of purpose. But this story is about more than bowling. It’s about rediscovering confidence, overcoming fear, finding purpose again, and proving that it’s never too late to chase something meaningful. Whether you’re facing adversity, starting over, or trying to reconnect with something you once loved, this episode is a reminder that your story is still being written.

I Hate to Break It to Woody Harrelson… but I Was the Original Kingpin.

Before the movie Kingpin ever hit theaters, I was already bowling professionally with one hand as the first amputee to compete on the PBA Tour.

Now decades later, at 61 years old, I’m making a comeback. This video is a fun look at the similarities between my story and the iconic movie — except this one’s real.

From bowling with one hand… to stepping back onto the lanes for the PBA60 World Championship… this comeback is about proving it’s never too late to chase something meaningful again.

And yes… I’m still trying to avoid the gutter balls and my hook flying off!.

 

Copyright 2026 We’re not Stumped, One Hand Man Productions and Mike Bolland
Go to Top