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
Join us on this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast as we talk with Britt Kimball, Amputee Program Champion at Encompass Health Valley of the Sun. A dedicated occupational therapist, Britt has been making a difference in the amputee community since 2016. Learn about her work leading monthly support groups, organizing running, swimming, and golf clinics. Discover how Britt's efforts create better outcomes for amputees and foster a supportive, thriving community.
In this episode of the We’re Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland covers three impactful stories from the community. First, we explore a fundraiser organized to assist a young amputee and their family. Next, Mike discusses a tragic incident at Grace Hospital, where an amputation error resulted in the removal of the wrong leg, sparking an investigation. Lastly, Mike highlights the work of AbleGamers, a nonprofit organization making gaming accessible for people with disabilities.
In this uplifting episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland shares remarkable stories of amputees who are making a difference. Starting with a West Virginia teen who became a beacon of strength and positivity for his family after amputation, showing how resilience can inspire loved ones. Next, a dive into the journey of a double amputee who’s pursuing his dream of playing baseball. Finally, a spotlight the Beautifully Made Community, a group empowering those with physical differences to embrace their unique beauty.
