In this powerful episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland sits down with Kelvin Crosby , a remarkable individual whose journey from hearing loss and blindness to becoming an inventor, artist, and advocate will leave you inspired. Diagnosed with hearing loss as a child, Kelvin later lost his vision due to Usher Syndrome Type 2. He opens up about the emotional toll this took on him, including thoughts of suicide, and the turning point when he chose to embrace his deafblindness instead of letting it define him.
Kelvin shares how this decision sparked a new purpose in life—one rooted in helping others. His invention, the See Me Cane, is a game-changer for people with visual impairments. Designed to enhance safety and awareness, the cane features a light that gives users control over their environment while maintaining their ability to hear. Kelvin explains how this tool has not only improved his own life but also empowered others with confidence and mobility.
The conversation also explores Kelvin’s unexpected journey into pottery. Losing his vision at 32, he found healing through clay, eventually becoming the Deaf Blind Potter. What began as a side project blossomed into a thriving business and popular TikTok channel. Kelvin also shares his goal of funding 1,000 See Me Canes and his collaboration with an engineer to bring his invention to market.
Mike and Kelvin discuss his three podcasts—Perseverance Podcast, See Me Cane Podcast, and Investing in Accessibility—each focused on uplifting stories, product development, and accessibility innovation. They even touch on goalball, a thrilling Paralympic sport played by blind athletes.
Kelvin’s story is one of grit, creativity, and choosing joy. Whether you’re facing your own challenges or seeking inspiration, this episode reminds us that adversity can lead to purpose.
Links:
Personal Website: https://kelvincrosby.com/
DeafBlindPotter: https://www.deafblindpotter.com/
SeeMeCane: https://www.seemecane.com/
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In this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland announces new social media accounts for this podcast: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WereNotStumpedLimbLossPodcast, Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/werenotstumped/. He then dives into two remarkable stories of resilience in the face of amputation. First, he discusses Pointed in the Right Direction, an inspiring memoir from Jeff Soelberg about overcoming life’s challenges after partial hand/finger amputation. Then, we hear the heartwarming story of a 7-year-old boy who, despite having both legs amputated, conquers his fear of swimming and embraces life with courage.
In this episode of the *We're Not Stumped* podcast, host Mike Bolland sits down with Rachel Simukonda from the City of Flagstaff to discuss the city's efforts in promoting inclusive and accessible communities. Rachel shares her insights on Flagstaff's commitment to creating opportunities for people of all abilities, along with her personal experiences in advocating for equity and support in public services. Tune in for a powerful conversation on inclusive employment, adaptive living, and how Flagstaff is leading by example.
Mike Bolland highlights two impactful community events: the NAU Institute for Human Development Resource Fair and the NOB Amputee Support Group's annual picnic at Bethpage State Park. Discover how these events foster inclusivity, provide resources, and offer peer support for individuals with disabilities and amputees. Tune in for discussions on adaptive living, community building, and the power of connection!
