In this episode of the We’re Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland shares two stories of courage and perseverance. The episode highlights a shark attack survivor who turned to crowdfunding after being denied insurance coverage for a prosthetic hand. This journey showcases the challenges of insurance in the area of prosthetics.
The episode also explores the incredible work of Operation Enduring Warrior, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering wounded veterans and first responders. Through adaptive adventures, community initiatives, and mentorship, Enduring Warrior inspires individuals to push past their physical and mental limitations.
This episode is a testament to the human spirit and the importance of advocacy and support.
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Shark Attack Story: https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/shark-attack-survivor-crowdfunds-for-prosthetic-hand-after-insurance-company-refused-to-pay-7458753
Enduring Warrior: https://www.enduringwarrior.org
#SharkAttackSurvivor #EnduringWarrior #Prosthetics #Inspiration #Podcast
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After a life-threatening illness led to multiple amputations, Karlene Martinez refused to give up. In this powerful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland talks with Karlene about her incredible path from septic shock and paralysis to recovery, faith, and advocacy. Karlene opens up about: 💪 Her battle with sepsis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and months of rehabilitation 🦿 Adjusting to life with prosthetics and finding the right fit ❤️ Overcoming anxiety and depression through faith and gratitude 🌟 Empower Fest, Ability360, and finding inspiration in the adaptive community 👣 The importance of peer support through groups like Encompass Health and community ambassadors Karlene’s story is one of resilience, faith, and limitless determination—a reminder that even after life-changing loss, there’s always a way forward.
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland explores the power of the “I don’t give a crap” attitude — and how it can transform life after limb loss. Mike shares how letting go of judgment and embracing unapologetic confidence helps amputees find freedom, purpose, and joy. From learning to laugh at setbacks to defying expectations, this mindset is about living boldly — not bitterly. 💬 Topics covered: ✅ Why confidence matters more than comparison ✅ Turning self-doubt into strength ✅ How humor and attitude fuel resilience ✅ Real stories from the limb loss community 🎧 Tune in, get inspired, and start saying “I don’t give a crap” — in the best way possible.
What happens when life takes you in an unexpected direction? For William Person, it meant going from college track and field to becoming an Olympic bobsledder — despite once thinking the sport was “stupid.” In this compelling episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland dives deep into Will’s remarkable story — from athletic triumphs to the unseen mental and physical toll of high-impact sports. Will shares: ✅ An Unexpected Start – How a Canadian team discovered him at ASU and convinced him to try bobsledding—only for him to win a medal in his first week. ✅ The Hidden Dangers – The connection between bobsledding and CTE, the effects of repeated high G-forces, and the lack of medical safeguards for athletes. ✅ Cognitive & Emotional Struggles – How memory lapses, confusion, and the loss of a teammate shaped his journey toward healing. ✅ Advocacy & Recovery – Will’s mission to raise awareness about mental health, his success with oxygen therapy, and his vision to open a treatment facility for athletes and veterans in St. Louis. This episode goes far beyond sports—it’s a story of resilience, healing, and the fight for athlete safety.
