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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Join us for an inspiring episode of "We're Not Stumped," hosted by Mike Bolland, as we welcome two incredible guests: Dan Moses, a bilateral below-knee amputee, and Rachael Simukonda, a left below-knee amputee. In this episode, we dive into the importance of peer support and adaptive living for the disabled community. Dan and Rachael share their personal experiences and discuss how these initiatives are making a real difference in the lives of amputees and others with disabilities.
In this episode of “We’re Not Stumped,” we explore three stories that highlight resilience, courage, and safety: Top Books by and about amputees for 2024, the inspiring story of a high school football player who bravely rushed to save his mom in a car accident, leading to the amputation of his leg and a major recall of 70,000 lounge chairs due to safety concerns, including risks that could cause amputations.
