In this episode of the We’re Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland highlights three incredible stories of innovation, resilience, and community:
🔹 Saving Frostbitten Feet: Explore a groundbreaking new device designed to rewarm frostbitten feet and reduce the risk of amputations, offering hope for those affected by severe cold injuries.
🔹 An Amputee’s Inspiring Horseback Journey: Meet the remarkable amputee riding horseback across America, stopping in East Texas to share his message of perseverance and hope.
🔹 Helping Hands Group: Discover the impactful work of this organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities and their families through advocacy, resources, and education.
✨ These stories showcase the power of human determination and the innovations changing lives.
💬 Share your thoughts in the comments and subscribe for more uplifting stories from the disability and adaptive living community.
Links:
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-12-device-rewarm-frostbitten-feet-amputations.html
https://helpinghandsgroup.org/
#DisabilitySupport #FrostbiteTreatment #AmputeeJourney #Inspiration #Podcast
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In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Shawn Johnson, founder and executive director of Enhancing Skills for Life, and Mike St. Onge, board chairman and quadruple amputee, to explore the organization’s inspiring mission and impact. Shawn, an occupational therapist with nearly three decades of prosthetic and rehabilitation experience, shares how Enhancing Skills for Life grew from its first workshop in 2002 into a global community serving people living without both arms or all four limbs. Mike reflects on his personal journey as a quadruple amputee, highlighting the strength of peer support and empowerment in rebuilding independence. Discover how this nonprofit is transforming lives through: ✅ Workshops and skill-building events ✅ Adaptive equipment resources like the “Hands-Free Catalog” ✅ Scholarships, mentorship, and international participation ✅ Exciting future collaborations and upcoming workshops Whether you’re part of the limb loss community or simply inspired by stories of resilience and hope, this conversation is packed with insight and heart.
In 2013, Armeda Batchler made the life-altering decision to amputate her left leg above the knee after being diagnosed with osteosarcoma—just months after becoming a new mother. Determined to push forward, she balanced recovery, parenting, and work with remarkable strength. Yet behind the resilience, Armeda faced hidden struggles: depression, isolation, and the difficulty of asking for help. Over time, she discovered the healing power of connection, rebuilding a local amputee support group and embracing advocacy to support others walking a similar path. In this heartfelt conversation, Armeda opens up about her cancer journey, the challenges of raising her daughter while adapting to limb loss, and how hope and community helped her transform struggle into purpose.
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland examines leadership at the Amputee Coalition. Between 2019 and 2022, CEO compensation jumped 107%. Cass Isidro led the organization from February 2023 until August 22, 2025. While reliable sources say she did a good job, Mike discusses why long-term leadership is vital for the limb loss community—highlighting the value of someone deeply committed to the cause rather than viewing the role as a career step. He also shares why he personally would not seek recommendation letters for the Certified Peer Visitor program.
