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
In this episode of We're Not Stumped, we dive into the journey of a local teen who is redefining the game of softball. After undergoing a double amputation, she hasn’t just adapted—she’s excelling, competing at a high level, and proving that determination and passion can overcome any obstacle. Next, we spotlight A Leg Forever, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting amputees and their families. A Leg Forever Charitable Foundation was established by Elizabeth (Liz) Norden in honor of her two sons JP and Paul Norden who each lost a leg in the Boston Marathon bombings on April 15, 2013.
In this episode of We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Michael Allison, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Purple Heart recipient, best-selling author, and globally recognized leadership expert. As the CEO of The Adversity Academy, Michael has dedicated his career to helping individuals and organizations embrace resilience, accountability, and leadership. He shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship, the lessons learned in high-pressure combat zones, and his groundbreaking UN-Leadership and Break The Bottle – 3D methodologies. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on overcoming adversity, breaking limitations, and unlocking your full leadership potential.
In this episode of We're Not Stumped, we celebrate two incredible individuals who embody perseverance and resilience. First, we highlight Parker Byrd, the East Carolina University baseball player who made history as the first NCAA baseball athlete to compete with a prosthetic leg. Parker's journey began with a devastating boating accident that could have ended his athletic career. Instead, he refused to let adversity define him. Through relentless determination and hard work, Parker returned to the field, proving that setbacks can be stepping stones to even greater achievements. His story is an inspiration to athletes everywhere, showing that passion and persistence can overcome even the toughest obstacles. Next, we turn to the impactful work of the Kirstie Ennis Foundation. Founded by Marine veteran and amputee Kirstie Ennis, the organization is dedicated to empowering individuals through outdoor adventures, education, and adaptive sports. Kirstie’s life changed forever when she lost her leg in a helicopter crash while serving in Afghanistan. Rather than letting the tragedy hold her back, she became a world-class mountaineer and advocate, using her platform to uplift others facing adversity. Through her foundation, she continues to inspire and support those navigating their own challenges, proving that resilience knows no limits.
