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.
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
Linda Calabria is a product marketing connector with 7+ years in prosthetics and 10 years in other industries. For the last three years she has been putting her vast experience to work while building a startup, employing her knowledge [...]
In episode 4 of season 2, I get the pleasure of speaking to Wafa Lavelle. Wafa was born in the Middle East in the country of Jordan. While her mother was pregnant with her, she became sick and had [...]
John Register is a two-time Paralympian, a Paralympic Games Silver Medalist, a Persian Gulf War veteran, and a TEDx motivational speaker. He is also the founder of Inspired Communications International, an organization specializing in motivational keynote speaking, training, and [...]
