In this heartfelt and uplifting episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes Katie Thomas for a conversation filled with honesty, humor, and hard-earned wisdom. Born without her right arm below the elbow, Katie began receiving care at Shriners Hospital in Tampa at age 3 and experimented with various prosthetics throughout her childhood. Over time, she discovered that prosthetics were a helpful tool—but not essential for her to live a full, capable life.
Now a devoted parent, Katie opens up about raising her son, who has Witteveen Colk syndrome, a rare genetic disorder. She shares her journey through early intervention services, advocating for genetic testing, and ensuring her child receives the support he needs. Her advice to parents? Trust your instincts, push for answers, and never hesitate to speak up for your child.
Katie and Mike also trade stories about life with one hand, from adapting daily tasks to navigating public perceptions and occasional misconceptions. Their conversation touches on sports, school, prosthetic “show-and-tell,” and their shared mission to be seen as capable—not simply inspirational for living their lives.
This episode is a mix of candid storytelling, practical insight, and lighthearted connection that will leave you informed and inspired.
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In this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, Mike Bolland explores stories of resilience and community impact. The journey of an amputee adjusting to life after a traumatic assault and finding strength back home. The mission of Joe & Marie Bolland's Helping Hands Foundation: To empower amputees and other people with limb differences to realize their boundless potential through transformative collaboration with their peers. To nurture a mindset of infinite possibilities, foster self-advocacy, and inspire our community to live a life without limitations. Join Mike as he sheds light on these impactful stories and the unwavering human spirit.
In this episode of the We're Not Stumped, we sit down with Kelly J. Mendenhall—an accomplished author, speaker, and advocate—to explore her transformative journey from a thriving career in nonprofit fundraising to becoming a disabled entrepreneur and patient advocate. Diagnosed with rare spinal cord conditions in 2017, Kelly faced a medical mystery that led her to redefine her life and purpose. Kelly's dedication to empowering others is evident in her efforts to raise awareness about chronic pain, mental health, and the importance of patient-centered care.
In this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland shares two stories of courage and perseverance. The episode highlights a shark attack survivor who turned to crowdfunding after being denied insurance coverage for a prosthetic hand. This journey showcases the challenges of insurance in the area of prosthetics.
