General Amputee and Limb Difference Resources Podcast
Why Confidence Matters More Than the Prosthetic
What does it really take to learn to walk again after an amputation? In this episode of We're Not Stumped, Mike Bolland welcomes physical therapist John Lottes, DPT, Clinical Supervisor at First Step Physical Therapy and an adjunct professor who specializes in prosthetic rehabilitation. John shares how an unexpected career path led him to working with individuals with limb loss and explains why the biggest hurdle in recovery often isn't physical—it's confidence. Together, Mike and John discuss the importance of celebrating small victories, building trust with your rehabilitation team, and developing the mindset needed to regain independence.
Thank You, LN-4 Hand Project, for Listening
Sometimes, the biggest changes don't happen in a lab—they happen with a few carefully chosen words. In this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, I want to personally thank the LN-4 Hand Project (https://ln4handproject.org/) for updating its mission statement to better reflect the entire upper limb limb loss community. For many years, organizations have understandably focused on a specific group of individuals. But recognizing and including everyone living with upper limb loss and limb difference sends a powerful message: you belong, your story matters, and you are seen. As someone born without a right hand, this change means a great deal to me personally, and I believe it represents an important step toward greater inclusion across our community.
My NCIL Conference Takeaways
What happens when disability advocates from across the country come together to shape the future of independent living and accessibility? In this solo episode of We're Not Stumped, I share my personal reflections after attending the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) Annual Conference in Washington, D.C., where I represented Ability360 as a member of its Board of Directors. From celebrating ADA36: We Won't Go Back to hearing powerful stories from advocates, policymakers, and leaders in the disability community, the conference reinforced why protecting and advancing disability rights remains so important.
What if the biggest barrier to travel isn’t your disability—but the uncertainty?
In this episode of We're Not Stumped, Mike Bolland sits down with Karen Morales, a wheelchair user and leader of Fora Travel's Accessibility Initiative, to discuss how the travel industry can become more inclusive for everyone. After becoming a wheelchair user in 2020, Karen quickly discovered that planning an accessible trip often meant endless phone calls, unanswered questions, and uncertainty about whether hotels, transportation, and attractions would truly meet her needs. Rather than accepting those challenges, she helped create an initiative that's training hundreds of travel advisors to better serve travelers with disabilities and other accessibility needs.
What if success isn’t measured by where you finish—but by having the courage to start?
What if success isn't measured by where you finish—but by having the courage to start? After more than 35 years away from professional bowling, I returned to compete in the PBA60 World Series of Bowling at age 61. I knew the odds weren't in my favor. My body had changed. The equipment had changed. The competition had changed. But this episode isn't really about bowling. It's about the voice inside all of us that says we're too old, too late, or not good enough to chase something that matters. In this solo episode of We're Not Stumped, I share the emotions behind my comeback, the challenges I faced on the lanes, and the unexpected lesson that came from finishing far below where I had hoped. That lesson became a phrase I can't stop thinking about: Take the Shot Anyway. Because you don't need the perfect hand. You just need the courage to use the one you've been dealt.
How Denny Burke Turned Adversity into Advocacy
What happens when people underestimate your potential your entire life—and you refuse to let them define your future? In this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, I sit down with Denny Burke, a licensed master social worker, disability advocate, and speaker who has spent his life proving that disability does not determine what someone can achieve. Growing up legally blind and facing additional disabilities, Denny endured bullying, low expectations, and barriers that could have shaped the rest of his life. Instead, with the encouragement of mentors and his own determination, he became the first person in his immediate family to graduate from college and is now dedicated to helping others find their voice through self-advocacy and social work.
About General Amputee and Limb Difference Resources
“General amputee resources” refer to a broad range of information, services, organizations, and support systems available to individuals who have experienced limb loss or limb differences, as well as their families and caregivers. These resources aim to provide assistance, education, guidance, and community to help amputees adapt to their circumstances, regain independence, and improve their overall quality of life. Here are some examples of general amputee resources:
- Amputee Support Groups: These are local or online communities where amputees can connect with others who have had similar experiences, share advice, and provide emotional support.
- Rehabilitation Services: Rehabilitation centers and physical therapists provide specialized care and training to help amputees regain strength, mobility, and function. Occupational therapists assist with adapting to daily life.
- Educational Materials: Websites, books, and brochures provide information about living with limb loss, prosthetic care, mobility techniques, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
- Advocacy Organizations: Nonprofit organizations and advocacy groups, such as the Amputee Coalition, offer resources, education, and advocacy to promote the rights and well-being of amputees.
- Financial Assistance Programs: Some organizations and foundations provide financial assistance or grants to help amputees access necessary prosthetic devices and services.
- Peer Mentoring Programs: These programs match experienced amputees with newly amputated individuals to provide guidance, support, and encouragement during the recovery and adjustment process.
- Government Agencies: Government departments or agencies may offer disability benefits, vocational rehabilitation programs, and resources to assist amputees in securing employment and accessing healthcare services.
- Adaptive Sports and Recreation: Organizations dedicated to adaptive sports and recreational activities offer opportunities for amputees to participate in various physical activities and competitions.
These general amputee resources are essential for individuals adjusting to life after limb loss, as they can provide guidance, support, and practical solutions to help amputees lead fulfilling and independent lives. The specific resources available may vary by location, so individuals are encouraged to explore the options relevant to their needs and circumstances.