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/
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
In this powerful conclusion to the Triple A’s of Limb Loss series, host Mike Bolland explores the third and perhaps most impactful "A"—Attitude. Born without a right hand, Mike shares how attitude isn't just a mindset—it's a survival tool. With honesty and humor, he dives into how your outlook shapes your journey after amputation, influences your recovery, and determines how you show up for yourself and others. Whether you’re newly navigating limb loss or years into your journey, this episode is a reminder that while we can’t control everything, we can control how we respond.
In this moving episode of We’re Not Stumped, Gini Thomas shares her incredible story of resilience after a tragic motorcycle accident took her husband’s life and left her facing devastating injuries. After three years of limb salvage attempts, Gini made the courageous decision to undergo an above-knee amputation in 2015. She opens up about her life-changing transition from traditional socket prosthetics to the Integrum OPRA Implant System using Osseointegration, a bone-anchored prosthetic that has allowed her to walk unassisted and reclaim her independence. Gini discusses the challenges of phantom pain, the power of advocacy, and how she uses social media to inspire and empower fellow amputees.
In this impactful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland dives into the second “A” of his Triple A’s of Limb Loss — Advocacy. Drawing from his own experience as someone born without a right hand, Mike explores how individuals in the limb loss and disability communities are using their voices to influence change, break down stigma, and fight for equal access and opportunity. Through heartfelt stories and eye-opening insights, this episode highlights: What advocacy looks like — from everyday conversations to systemic reform How sharing your personal journey can empower others and drive awareness The importance of representation in healthcare, employment, media, and beyond Ways listeners can get involved, speak up, and support the disability community Because when you find your community, you’re never stumped.
