Dr. Kimberly Emanuel was living her best life until a catastrophic event entered her life. In January of 2021, an infection caused her to go into severe sepsis shock. Her chances of living were less than 40%. To save her life, she was given Vasopressors designed to pull blood from all of her extremities to her heart. As a result, her limbs developed gangrene. The only medical solution was to remove all affected areas, which in her case was both legs and both arms. Dr. Kimberly became a quad amputee at the age of 50.
But as she states: “Fortunately, I am much more than my illness and disability. I have two grown adult daughters and a growing collection of grandsons. My husband and I have been married for 28 years and we enjoy camping and fishing. As a recently retired educator, my advocacy and Sepsis Awareness platforms have enhanced my public speaking and writing skills. I am interested in modeling adaptive fashions and serving as a motivational speaker to various audiences. My presence is a blessing and I hope to inspire just one person to keep on going!”
Currently Dr. Kimberly is raising funds to acquire a service dog. Any help is appreciated. Donations can be made here: https://givebutter.com/kimberlyscanine
Platforms discussed in this episode:
Dr. Kimberly Emanuel Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kimberly_thequadexperience/
Dr. Kimberly Emanuel Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/kimberly.emanuel.14
Dr. Kimberly Emanuel Website – https://thequadexperience.com/
Shamrock Prosthetics – http://www.shamrockprosthetics.com/
#amputee #amputeestrong #staypositive #amputeelife
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
In this impactful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland dives into the second “A” of his Triple A’s of Limb Loss — Advocacy. Drawing from his own experience as someone born without a right hand, Mike explores how individuals in the limb loss and disability communities are using their voices to influence change, break down stigma, and fight for equal access and opportunity. Through heartfelt stories and eye-opening insights, this episode highlights: What advocacy looks like — from everyday conversations to systemic reform How sharing your personal journey can empower others and drive awareness The importance of representation in healthcare, employment, media, and beyond Ways listeners can get involved, speak up, and support the disability community Because when you find your community, you’re never stumped.
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Brooke Brown—a passionate advocate, spiritual wellness guide, and founder of Brooke’s Butterfly Touch. Brooke, who lives with cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, shares how her journey led her to discover Reiki, energy healing, and the power of self-connection. As an Ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy of Central Arizona and host of the Rolling in Grace podcast, Brooke empowers others to live with purpose, embrace their uniqueness, and become their own biggest advocates. She shares her message of accessibility, inclusion, and disability visibility, along with the importance of assuming competence in every interaction.
In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland introduces the first part of his personal “Triple A’s” philosophy: Alone, Advocacy, and Attitude. Today’s focus is on that first word—Alone—a stage that many people experience after limb loss but rarely talk about openly. Mike, a congenital amputee and cancer survivor, shares what it means to feel alone physically, emotionally, and socially after amputation—and why that feeling doesn’t have to last forever. He explores practical, real-world solutions that help amputees take their first steps toward healing, including: The power of peer support and community How therapy and mental health resources can help Adaptive sports and creative outlets to rediscover purpose Navigating prosthetics, rehab, and daily independence Rebuilding identity and reclaiming confidence Whether you’re newly navigating limb loss or supporting someone who is, this episode is a reminder that you’re never truly alone. Hope, connection, and healing are all within reach.
Leave A Comment