In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, we share powerful stories of resilience, generosity, and community support for individuals with disabilities.
First, we discuss the heartwarming story of Jeanette Ingram, Oklahoma woman amputee, who narrowly escaped a fire but lost her electric wheelchair in the process. Thanks to Stacy Reddig’s incredible generosity, she received a brand-new wheelchair, restoring her mobility and independence.
Next, we highlight the heroic efforts of Ohio police officers who went above and beyond to rescue a double-amputee Army veteran stranded on an icy sidewalk. Facing freezing temperatures and the dangers of hypothermia, he was unable to move his wheelchair through the treacherous conditions. Thanks to the officers’ quick actions, he was brought to safety—an inspiring reminder of the importance of community and compassion.
Finally, we shine a spotlight on Turnstone, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with disabilities through adaptive sports, therapy, and advocacy. Their mission is to help individuals maximize their independence and live full, active lives. We explore how Turnstone’s programs make a meaningful difference and provide vital resources for the disability community.
These stories remind us of the power of kindness, resilience, and the importance of accessibility. Join us for an uplifting discussion on the ways individuals and organizations are making a real impact in the lives of people with disabilities.
Links:
Wheelchair Donation: https://kfor.com/news/local/news-4-viewer-gifts-new-electric-wheelchair-to-woman-amputee-rescued-from-fire/
Turnstone: https://turnstone.org
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How do you move forward when vision loss changes your career, independence, and plans for the future? In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland speaks with Jennifer Frederick about living with permanent vision loss and learning to advocate for herself along the way. Jennifer explains how changes in her vision eventually forced her to leave a career in crisis management. She also discusses the challenges she now faces while looking for work, including interview practices that have left her questioning whether she is being treated fairly as a person with a disability. The conversation explores Jenn’s decision not to undergo surgery for her detached retinas, the importance of seeking medical attention when your vision changes, and the need to take ownership of your healthcare.
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After losing control on an icy road in Calgary, Reid Robinson crashed into a tree and suffered devastating injuries to his lower leg. What followed were two and a half years of recovery, 13 surgeries, broken surgical hardware, bone infections, and a difficult decision between amputation and trying once more to save his leg. While recovering, Reid realized that none of the available mobility devices gave him the freedom he needed. So, despite having no welding experience, he taught himself by watching online videos and built his first leg brace from aluminum, crutches, and an IKEA cutting board. That garage-built prototype eventually became the X-Leg, a hands-free knee crutch designed to help people with lower-leg injuries stay active and independent during recovery.
