In this inspiring episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike talks with John Cooper, a physical therapist assistant with 18 years of experience, about his journey into physical therapy and his passion for working with lower-limb amputees.
John shares how his grandfather’s recovery from brain surgery sparked his career, and how close collaboration with prosthetists helps him address the real-world challenges amputees face every day. He explains why patience matters in rehab, why quality beats quantity in therapy sessions, and how setbacks can become powerful turning points.
The conversation also explores:
• The importance of honest patient–therapist communication
• What John learned traveling with a former below-the-knee amputee patient
• Accessibility gaps and the need for stronger support systems
• His advocacy work, including planning an Amputee Awareness Night at a baseball game
• A touching success story helping an elderly patient regain mobility
• His future goals in wound care and rehabilitation
This episode offers a meaningful look at amputee care from the therapy side — highlighting teamwork, empathy, and the power of human connection in recovery.
Whether you’re an amputee, caregiver, healthcare professional, or ally, John’s story delivers insight, encouragement, and practical perspective.
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
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.
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.
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!
