In this episode of the We’re Not Stumped podcast, I have the pleasure of hosting Dr. Eric Gabriel, a bi-lateral above-knee amputee for the second time. Born and raised in Levittown, Long Island, NY, one of the first pre-planned housing developments in the United States, Eric enjoyed a childhood filled with school and baseball. Later in life, he discovered a passion for softball and played competitively for 18 years, starting in his late teens. Despite the enjoyment, his aggressive playing style, which often included sliding headfirst into bases while wearing shorts, led to significant knee injuries. The constant abrasions and internal damage resulted in numerous surgeries over the years.
Eventually, Eric faced a difficult decision: endure the severe pain and immobility from his surgeries or have his right leg amputated. He chose the latter and underwent the procedure in 2009. A few years later, in 2018, he had his left leg amputated, becoming a bi-lateral above-knee amputee. Although these years were among the most challenging, they also brought profound transformation.
Eric found new purpose and meaning through adaptive rowing. Despite his amputations, he discovered he could row using a machine called an ERG, which led him into competitive rowing. He competed three times in the World Indoor Rowing Adaptive Championships in Boston, Massachusetts, earning a silver medal in his first championship. Recently, he placed first in the category for 60-year and older lower leg amputee males. In 2012, Eric was invited to try out for the United States Paralympic Rowing Team. Although he didn’t secure a spot on the team, he remains deeply grateful for the experience and the inspiration and motivation from his fellow athletes.
Links
Eric Gabriel Website: https://gabrieleric42.wixsite.com/website
GCU Graduation: https://youtu.be/QeZU8J3u2O0
GCU Feature: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXRaKUdYJrI
Duke University Spotlight: https://www.contrastcreative.com/portfolio/all-staff-event/?prev_page=9
ABC11 TV Feature: https://abc11.com/double-amputee-rowing-eric-gabriel-gofundme/6380274/
CW22 Web Feature: https://raleighcw.com/news/22-now/eric-gabriels-amputee-journey
Eric Gabriel on Amplitude Magazine: https://livingwithamplitude.com/tag/eric-gabriel/
#bilateralamputee #adaptiveathlete #amputee #limbloss
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Tom Jalinski, a double amputee from Littleton, is taking on a monumental challenge—hiking all 1,200 miles of Wisconsin’s Ice Age National Scenic Trail. In this episode, Tom shares his inspiring journey, from his past as an avid climber to the rigorous training he’s undergone to prepare for this six-month trek. He discusses the physical and mental challenges amputees face, his goal of raising awareness about life after limb loss, and the message he hopes to send to both the amputee and able-bodied communities. With a crowdfunding campaign to support his journey and a determination to prove that physical limitations don’t define one’s potential, Tom’s story is one of resilience, advocacy, and unwavering spirit. Tune in to hear how he’s turning obstacles into opportunities—one step at a time.
In this impactful episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland speaks out about a disturbing incident from the UK, where a woman without limb loss took to social media to mock individuals with visible limb differences—specifically targeting those with “nubs.” Mike calls out the cruelty and ignorance behind her actions, while emphasizing an important point: don’t give bullies the attention they crave. Sharing her posts only gives her more exposure and power. Instead, Mike encourages the limb loss community to rise above the hate—and to support one another with confidence and pride. “You are strong. You are resilient. And your difference is nothing to be ashamed of.” This episode is both a call for accountability and a reminder that dignity, not mockery, deserves the spotlight.
In this episode, we welcome Adrienne Hill, a certified prosthetist orthotist (CPO) and Program Director of the Master’s of Science in Prosthetics and Orthotics at Kennesaw State University. With a background in physics, mathematics, and health administration, Adrienne brings a unique perspective to the field. Her passion for prosthetics and orthotics is deeply personal—both her great-grandfather and father were amputees, inspiring her commitment to improving patient care. Adrienne has extensive experience as a former area clinic manager, where she provided clinical care, advocated for patients, and mentored future professionals. Now, she is dedicated to shaping the next generation of POP (Prosthetist-Orthotist-Prosthetist) professionals, ensuring they blend traditional care with cutting-edge technology.
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