Overcoming Adversity: Kelly J. Mendenhall’s Journey from Medical Mystery to Empowered Advocate Author

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 shares her experiences navigating the healthcare system, the challenges of living with invisible disabilities, and how she channeled her struggles into writing and advocacy. Her memoir, “Skin in the Game: The Stories My Tattoos Tell,” delves into her personal narrative, offering insights into resilience and self-discovery.

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.

Join us for an inspiring conversation that highlights the power of storytelling, the importance of self-advocacy, and the resilience of the human spirit. Whether you’re interested in personal development, healthcare advocacy, or the art of memoir writing, this episode offers valuable insights and motivation.

Key Topics:

  • Kelly’s transition from nonprofit fundraising to becoming a disabled entrepreneur
  • Navigating the complexities of rare spinal cord conditions and chronic pain
  • The inspiration behind her memoir, “Skin in the Game: The Stories My Tattoos Tell”
  • Strategies for self-advocacy within the healthcare system

Don’t miss this episode filled with wisdom, courage, and actionable advice for anyone facing life’s unexpected challenges.

Connect with Kelly J. Mendenhall:

Website: kellyjmendenhall.com

Subscribe to Our Podcast: https://werenotstumped.com/were-not-stumped-amputee-podcast-mailing-list/

Stay updated with our latest episodes by subscribing and hitting the notification bell. If you enjoyed this conversation, please leave a review and share it with your network. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to light.

Disclaimer:

The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for medical concerns.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Watch on YouTube

Listen on Spotify

  • virtual coaching program helping amputees

July 15th, 2025|

In this empowering episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Dr. Jackie Garcia, PT, DPT — a bilingual physical therapist, neurologic specialist-in-training, and founder of Nxt Stride Rehab — a virtual coaching program transforming how amputees recover, rebuild, and thrive. Jackie opens up about her journey into physical therapy, her passion for supporting individuals with limb loss and spinal cord injuries, and how a gap in care inspired her to launch a program that brings expert support directly into people’s homes — no matter where they live.

  • Attitude After Amputation

July 10th, 2025|

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.

  • Gini Thomas’s Journey with Osseointegration

July 8th, 2025|

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.

By |January 21st, 2025|General Disability Related Resources and News|Comments Off on Overcoming Adversity: Kelly J. Mendenhall’s Journey from Medical Mystery to Empowered Advocate Author

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

Go to Top