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

October 1st, 2024|

In this episode of the We're Not Stumped Podcast, host Mike Bolland interviews Danielle Robins, founder of Orthopaws, a company specializing in custom orthotics and prosthetics for pets. Discover how Orthopaws is transforming the lives of animals with mobility challenges, the technology behind their solutions, and inspiring success stories of pets regaining independence.

September 26th, 2024|

In this episode of We're Not Stumped, congenital amputee Mike Bolland dives into the disparities in prosthetic access highlighted by an article from The Conversation. While the Paralympics showcase cutting-edge prosthetics, many people with limb loss face barriers to even basic prosthetic care. Join Mike as he discusses the article's key points, the challenges of accessibility, and the real-world implications for people with disabilities. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation on the future of prosthetics and inclusive healthcare.

September 19th, 2024|

In this inspiring episode of We're Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland shares a heartwarming story of a two-year-old Burnaby boy who raised nearly $400 to support fellow amputees. Mike also reflects on his own experiences volunteering at Camp No Limits, where he helped empower children with limb loss to thrive. Finally, Mike celebrates a major milestone for the podcast— reaching 75 episodes!

By |2025-01-21T09:15:56-07:00January 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