We’re Not Stumped Freedom’s Wings Arizona Nonprofit S3 E15

Freedom’s Wings Arizona, a non-profit organization operated by individuals with disabilities, whether physical or developmental, has the mission of introducing the exhilarating world of soaring to such individuals.

Their objectives include:

  • Introducing individuals with disabilities to the soaring experience through Therapeutic Recreation, offering demonstration flights free of charge.
  • Providing qualified individuals with disabilities the opportunity to learn soaring, with options including solo flights, attainment of a private glider license, and further progression.
  • Offering training programs for instructors, ground crew, and flying students. Sharing the joy of soaring with many people throughout the State of Arizona.
  • Advocating for the adaptation of sailplanes with hand controls in other glider clubs and commercial operations, thereby increasing access for individuals with disabilities to enjoy soaring.

Freedom’s Wings Arizona draws inspiration from the successful model of Freedom’s Wings International, a similar non-profit organization that has been serving our community for over 35 years.

Links: https://freedomswingsaz.org

#disabilityawareness #disability #glider #gliders #nonprofit

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  • Olympic bobsledder William Person shares his journey from track star to medalist, tackling mental health challenges, CTE risks, and athlete advocacy.

October 14th, 2025|

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.

  • Lower Left Leg Amputee Journey

October 7th, 2025|

In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland speaks with Neomi Flores, who became an amputee at age 43 after a blood clot changed her life forever. Neomi shares her powerful journey, including: The frightening symptoms that led to her amputation Facing fear and uncertainty before surgery A year in a wheelchair and the challenges of recovery Learning to walk again with prosthetics Drawing strength from her faith, her children, and small victories The meaning behind her tattoo: “Don’t just exist, live” Her story is one of resilience, gratitude, and determination—a reminder that even in life’s toughest moments, it’s possible to find purpose and live fully.

  • More Than Hoops: Coaching, Community and Legapalooza

October 2nd, 2025|

Mike Bolland highlights two powerful topics of resilience, and community.  Topic 1 – A Call for Coaches ArizonAbility is launching a basketball clinic for adults with disabilities, and they’re looking for a passionate coach to lead the way. This isn’t just about basketball—it’s about confidence, teamwork, and creating a space where every player can thrive. Mike explains what this opportunity means for the community and how one coach can make a life-changing impact.  Topic 2 – Inspiration from Legapalooza Mike also shares the inspiring story of Legapalooza (https://legapalooza.com/), founded by Tommy Donahue after a life-changing accident. What started as a small charity event has grown into a movement of resilience, connection, and giving back. Tommy’s journey reminds us that when we come together, we can turn challenges into opportunities for hope and empowerment. 

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