In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, we highlight two remarkable stories of resilience and determination. First, we dive into the journey of Parker Byrd, the East Carolina University baseball player who became the first NCAA baseball athlete to play with a prosthetic leg. After a life-altering boating accident, Parker refused to let his dream slip away, proving that perseverance can redefine what’s possible in sports.
Next, we explore the incredible impact of the Kirstie Ennis Foundation. Founded by Marine veteran and amputee Kirstie Ennis, the foundation empowers individuals through outdoor adventures, education, and support for adaptive athletes. Kirstie, who lost her leg in a helicopter crash while serving in Afghanistan, has since become a world-class mountaineer and advocate for those facing adversity.
Join host Mike Bolland as he shares these powerful stories of overcoming obstacles, breaking barriers, and inspiring others to push beyond their limits. Whether it’s stepping up to the plate or scaling mountains, Parker and Kirstie prove that limb loss is not the end—it’s just the beginning of a new chapter. Tune in for an episode filled with courage, ambition, and hope!
Parker Byrd Story: https://www.outkick.com/sports/baseball-parker-byrd-east-carolina-prosthetic-leg
The Kirstie Ennis Foundation: https://kirstieennisfoundation.com/
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In this empowering episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Dr. Jackie Garcia, PT, DPT — a bilingual physical therapist, neurologic specialist-in-training, and founder of Nxt Stride Rehab — a virtual coaching program transforming how amputees recover, rebuild, and thrive. Jackie opens up about her journey into physical therapy, her passion for supporting individuals with limb loss and spinal cord injuries, and how a gap in care inspired her to launch a program that brings expert support directly into people’s homes — no matter where they live.
In this powerful conclusion to the Triple A’s of Limb Loss series, host Mike Bolland explores the third and perhaps most impactful "A"—Attitude. Born without a right hand, Mike shares how attitude isn't just a mindset—it's a survival tool. With honesty and humor, he dives into how your outlook shapes your journey after amputation, influences your recovery, and determines how you show up for yourself and others. Whether you’re newly navigating limb loss or years into your journey, this episode is a reminder that while we can’t control everything, we can control how we respond.
In this moving episode of We’re Not Stumped, Gini Thomas shares her incredible story of resilience after a tragic motorcycle accident took her husband’s life and left her facing devastating injuries. After three years of limb salvage attempts, Gini made the courageous decision to undergo an above-knee amputation in 2015. She opens up about her life-changing transition from traditional socket prosthetics to the Integrum OPRA Implant System using Osseointegration, a bone-anchored prosthetic that has allowed her to walk unassisted and reclaim her independence. Gini discusses the challenges of phantom pain, the power of advocacy, and how she uses social media to inspire and empower fellow amputees.