In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, we highlight two incredible stories of resilience and empowerment. First, we celebrate Forreston High School wrestler Lucas Nelson, who recently reached his 100th career win—an impressive feat made even more inspiring by the fact that he competes with a limb difference. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, proving that hard work and determination can overcome any challenge.
We also spotlight Penta Prosthetics, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making prosthetic devices more accessible to those in need. With millions of people worldwide unable to afford proper prosthetic care, Penta Prosthetics works to bridge the gap by recycling, refurbishing, and redistributing prosthetic limbs to individuals who need them most. Their mission is transforming lives, giving people the mobility and independence they deserve.
Join host Mike Bolland as he dives into these compelling stories, discussing the importance of adaptive sports, the impact of inclusive organizations, and how we can all support initiatives that make a difference.
🔗 Read more: Forreston Grappler’s 100th Win – https://www.shawlocal.com/sauk-valley/2025/01/16/forreston-grappler-reaches-100th-win-all-despite-limb-difference/
🔗 Learn about Penta Prosthetics: Penta Prosthetics – https://pentaprosthetics.org/
🎧 Subscribe for more inspiring stories! #LimbDifference #AdaptiveSports #prosthetics
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on Rumble
Listen on Spotify
In this episode, host Mike Bolland shares the inspiring story of Carter Henning, a high school freshman from Calamus-Wheatland in Iowa who returned to lead his varsity golf team just two months after losing his leg in a snowmobile accident. Carter’s determination and passion for the game showcase what’s possible with resilience and heart. Mike also highlights the Dallas Amputee Network (DAN), a nonprofit offering vital support and peer mentorship to amputees and their families across North Texas. Founded by Ellen Winchell in 2002, DAN empowers individuals through monthly meetings, the Certified Peer Visitor program, and a strong community of encouragement.
In this episode, we sit down with Vanessa Abraham, a certified Speech-Language Pathologist whose life took an unexpected turn when she became the patient. After a sudden illness left her paralyzed and unable to speak, Vanessa faced the daunting task of reclaiming her voice and identity. Vanessa shares her harrowing experience of battling Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS), the emotional toll of being unable to communicate, and her path to recovery. Her story is not just one of survival but of transformation, leading her to become an advocate for ICU survivors and author of the memoir Speechless: How a Speech Therapist Lost Her Ability to Speak and Her Silent Struggle to Reclaim Her Voice and Life.
In this inspiring episode of We’re Not Stumped, we spotlight adaptive athlete Tracy LaMarche as she takes on the Ride to End ALZ South Carolina—a three-day cycling journey across the state with deep personal meaning. After losing her leg, Tracy found freedom and strength through cycling. Now, she rides to honor her late mother-in-law, who battled dementia, and to support vital Alzheimer’s research. Riding alongside her husband Blair, Tracy embodies resilience and hope, pedaling toward a future where no family has to face this disease alone.
