We're Not Stumped Limb Loss Support

From Septic Shock to Strength: The Inspiring Journey of Amputee Advocate Karlene Martinez

After a life-threatening illness led to multiple amputations, Karlene Martinez refused to give up. In this powerful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland talks with Karlene about her incredible path from septic shock and paralysis to recovery, faith, and advocacy.

Karlene opens up about:
💪 Her battle with sepsis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and months of rehabilitation
🦿 Adjusting to life with prosthetics and finding the right fit
❤️ Overcoming anxiety and depression through faith and gratitude
🌟 Empower Fest, Ability360, and finding inspiration in the adaptive community
👣 The importance of peer support through groups like Encompass Health and community ambassadors

Karlene’s story is one of resilience, faith, and limitless determination—a reminder that even after life-changing loss, there’s always a way forward.

🔗 Connect with Karlene:
Facebook: Karlene Martinez
Instagram: @LimitlessKarlene

#Amputee #LimbLoss #Resilience #Faith #Motivation #Inspiration #AdaptiveLiving #WereNotStumped #AmputeeSupport #Prosthetics #NeverGiveUp #MentalHealth #Ability360

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  • Limb Loss Podcast

November 14th, 2024|

In this episode of the We’re Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland covers three impactful stories from the community. First, we explore a fundraiser organized to assist a young amputee and their family. Next, Mike discusses a tragic incident at Grace Hospital, where an amputation error resulted in the removal of the wrong leg, sparking an investigation. Lastly, Mike highlights the work of AbleGamers, a nonprofit organization making gaming accessible for people with disabilities.

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  • Amputee Stories: Teen's Positive Impact, Double Amputee in Baseball & Beautifully Made Community

November 7th, 2024|

In this uplifting episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland shares remarkable stories of amputees who are making a difference. Starting with a West Virginia teen who became a beacon of strength and positivity for his family after amputation, showing how resilience can inspire loved ones. Next, a dive into the journey of a double amputee who’s pursuing his dream of playing baseball. Finally, a spotlight the Beautifully Made Community, a group empowering those with physical differences to embrace their unique beauty.

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  • Susan-Fumagalli_osseointegration

November 5th, 2024|

In this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland welcomes Susan Fumagalli, a true inspiration and advocate for amputees around the world. Susan opens up about her personal journey through limb loss and her experience with osseointegration—a groundbreaking technology that has changed her life and could reshape the future of prosthetics for countless individuals. Susan shares her story, from the physical and emotional challenges of losing limbs to the hope and transformation that osseointegration has brought to her life.

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By |October 21st, 2025|Limb Loss Due To Medical Condition, Quad Amputees|0 Comments

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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
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