What are you actually allowed to ask someone with a service dog? Do service dogs need paperwork? And what happens when businesses get the rules wrong?
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland talks with upper-limb amputee Stevia Walker about service animals, disability, prosthetics, self-advocacy, and life after limb loss.
Stevia shares an encounter at a hotel where employees demanded documentation for her service dog and incorrectly assumed the dog was an emotional support animal. She discusses what people and businesses should understand about service animals and why these interactions matter.
Stevia also shares the remarkable journey that brought her into the limb loss community. After developing severe Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) following a 2021 car accident and subsequent surgeries, she ultimately chose to have her hand amputated in December 2023.
She talks about fighting to be heard by doctors, adapting after amputation, trying different prosthetic technologies, and participating in a clinical trial at UT Southwestern. Stevia also explains why there is no single prosthetic solution that works for every amputee—and how learning to advocate for herself has shaped her journey.
Organizations discussed:
Hands of Gratitude
Dallas Amputee Network
🎙️ We’re Not Stumped shares conversations about limb loss, limb difference, disability, advocacy, adaptive living, and the people who refuse to let circumstances define what’s possible.
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
In this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland sits down with Kelly Grey-Parker, a quadrilateral amputee who lost her limbs at just one year old. Kelly shares her incredible journey of resilience and how she's dedicated her life to supporting others through the organization MOVING FORWARD Limb Loss Networking Group. Discover how Kelly's story inspires hope, and learn about the impact of peer support in fostering confidence and independence for amputees. She also shares the story of her marriage to Billy Parker, a bilateral upper limb amputee. Together, they navigate life’s challenges with love, humor, and an unshakable bond built on mutual understanding.
Join us for the 100th episode of We're Not Stumped! Host Mike Bolland reflects on the incredible journey so far, and the lessons learned from celebrating resilience and overcoming challenges. In this special milestone episode, Mike also walks listeners through the process of becoming a guest on the podcast. Whether you’re a longtime listener or new to the podcast, this episode is filled with gratitude, inspiration, and exciting updates for the future. Thank you for being part of our journey—here’s to the next 100!
In this compelling episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes the incredible team behind the Hozhoni Foundation to share their inspiring mission and groundbreaking work. Joining Mike are CEO Antonia Klopstein, COO Lex Heerding, Employment Program Head Michele Eisenberg, and Art Manager Shay Vigil. Together, they discuss how the foundation empowers individuals with disabilities through innovative programs that promote independence, creativity, and community engagement.
