Medical procedure
POPULARITY
What I Wish Every New Amputee Knew Seven years ago, I made one of the hardest decisions of my life: to amputate my leg. Looking back now, I can honestly say that journey has taught me more about life, resilience, and myself than I ever could have imagined. In this episode, I share seven of the biggest lessons I've learned through seven years of living as an above-knee amputee. These lessons aren't just about limb loss, they're about navigating life's unexpected challenges, embracing change, and discovering strength you didn't know you had. One of the first things I learned is that life is incredibly uncertain. None of us know what tomorrow holds. I certainly never imagined that a martial arts injury would eventually lead to amputation. Yet even in the uncertainty, I've learned that life is still beautiful and worth embracing. Every day we wake up with breath in our lungs is an opportunity to live fully, regardless of our circumstances. I also talk about change and why fighting it often creates more suffering than the change itself. As amputees, change becomes a constant companion. New sockets, new challenges, new routines, and new versions of ourselves. While change can be uncomfortable, it can also open doors to experiences, relationships, and opportunities we never would have discovered otherwise. Another lesson that stands out is realizing just how strong we really are. Not physically, although that comes too, but mentally and emotionally. Strength isn't built on easy days. It's forged through setbacks, disappointments, pain, and the choice to keep moving forward anyway. Like a diamond formed under pressure, adversity has a way of shaping us into something stronger than we thought possible. I also share why learning to appreciate the good days matters so much. Living with limb loss means navigating physical challenges, phantom pain, socket issues, and countless ups and downs. The difficult days teach us to cherish the ordinary ones. They remind us not to take comfort, mobility, or peace for granted. Perhaps one of the most important lessons is this: don't do it alone. Finding community has been one of the greatest gifts of my journey. Whether through my Amped Women chats, fellow amputees, or supportive friends and family, connection matters. We were never meant to carry life's challenges by ourselves. Finally, I talk about friendships, mindset, and embracing the roller coaster that is amputee life. The road isn't always easy, but it can still be meaningful, beautiful, and full of purpose. My hope is that whether you're a new amputee, a caregiver, or simply facing a challenge of your own, you'll walk away encouraged. Life may not look the way we planned, but that doesn't mean it can't be extraordinary. Mindset matters. Give yourself grace. Find your people. And remember—you are stronger than you think. What's one lesson your journey has taught you? Whether you're an amputee, caregiver, or someone navigating a challenge of your own, I'd love to hear from you. Share your biggest lesson in the comments, reply to this post, or connect with me through Warrior Ground. And if you're walking the limb loss journey, don't do it alone. Join our community and discover the power of connecting with people who truly understand. Join the Warrior Ground community and stay connected → HERE And as always, Be Healthy, Be Happy, Be YOU!!! Much love,
Join the Warrior Effect-Get Involved Today What if one story had the power to help someone walk again? After seven powerful weeks of interviews during Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, this episode of BAWarrior podcast becomes more than a reflection-it becomes a movement. In this heartfelt finale to the “Survivors to Warriors” series, I take listeners back through the incredible stories shared throughout the past seven weeks. These were not just interviews about limb loss. They were deeply personal conversations about fear, trauma, cancer, grief, PTSD, faith, family, resilience, and the decision to keep moving forward when life changes forever. From children facing amputation at a young age to young adults rebuilding their confidence and independence, every guest brought honesty and courage to the table. While each story was unique, one thing tied them all together: resilience. Warriors are not born-they are built through impossible moments, painful setbacks, and the daily choice to rise again. As an above-knee amputee myself, I share openly about how some days I feel strong and empowered, while other days limb loss completely knocks me down. That reality is something many amputees understand deeply. But what inspired me most about these guests was watching people so young choose courage, faith, and perseverance despite everything they had faced. This episode introduces what I call The Warrior Effect-the ripple effect created when one person's story, kindness, or support helps change someone else's life. When someone shares their story, another person feels less alone. When someone donates to organizations like Limbs For Humanity, another person gains the opportunity to walk again. When companies like Stride Robotics innovate and create more affordable, lightweight prosthetic technology, they help restore independence, dignity, and hope to amputees around the world. Co-Founder, Randy West, of Limbs For Humanity with one of their youngest patients Co-Founder and CEO, Revanth Damerla, Stride Robotics Throughout this episode, I discuss why mobility is about far more than simply walking. Mobility impacts emotional health, confidence, mental well-being, freedom, and quality of life. I share the mission behind Limbs For Humanity and their efforts to provide prosthetic care and mobility to underserved communities globally. I also highlight the groundbreaking work Stride Robotics is doing to create lightweight, waterproof powered prosthetics designed with real amputees and real-world accessibility in mind. But this episode is not meant to simply inspire listeners for a moment before moving on. It is a call to action. The time to act is now! I challenge listeners to become part of the movement by supporting the limb loss community in whatever way they can. Whether that means volunteering, fundraising, donating, becoming an ambassador, spreading awareness, investing in adaptive innovation, or simply listening and learning-everyone has a role to play. I also introduce the new ambassador program for Limbs For Humanity, encouraging listeners across all fifty states to help spread awareness and become part of something bigger than themselves. This movement is not about competition between nonprofits or organizations. It is about collaboration, compassion, and filling the gaps for communities that are underserved and often forgotten. *Become an Ambassador for Limbs For Humanity here *Find ways to help bring nobility to those without access here *Or check out how to become a part of the innovative side with Stride Robotics here This powerful finale reminds listeners that healing and resilience grow stronger when people come together. The “Survivors to Warriors” series may be ending, but the mission is only beginning. The Warrior Effect is real-and now it's your turn to become part of it. Have a beautifully, blessed week and as always, Be Healthy, Be Happy, Be YOU!!! Much love,
Stride Robotics Lightweight Power Knee Redefining Movement This episode wrapped up Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month in a powerful way by looking toward the future of mobility, technology, and what it truly means to help people live again after limb loss. After a month full of stories about trauma, cancer, amputation, grief, fear, faith, and resilience, I wanted to end this series by asking a bigger question: once someone survives, how do we help them truly reclaim their life? That is why I invited Revanth, cofounder and CEO of Stride Robotics, onto the BAWarrior podcast. Stride Robotics is working to redefine mobility through lightweight powered prosthetic technology designed to restore strength, endurance, and freedom for amputees. I also have the honor of serving as an advisor for their company, helping give feedback from the lived experience of an above-knee amputee. In this conversation, Revanth shared his journey from robotics and engineering into the prosthetic world. What stood out to me most was his honesty. He admitted that, early on, he was focused on building something impressive. But through conversations with amputees and prosthetists, he realized that innovation only matters if it solves a real human problem. That shift — from building something cool to building something truly useful — is where the heart of this conversation lived. We talked about the communication gap between engineers, prosthetists, and amputees. All three groups are speaking from different perspectives, and yet all three must work together if prosthetic technology is going to improve real lives. As an amputee, I know firsthand that we do not always describe things in technical terms. We describe how something feels. We talk about trust, effort, fear, exhaustion, balance, and whether a device allows us to live the way we want to live. One of the most powerful parts of this episode was our conversation around “mental load.” True mobility is not just about walking. It is about not having to think through every single step. It is being able to hike and look at the view instead of staring at the ground. It is walking into a room without calculating every movement. It is trusting your body and your prosthesis enough to live fully. Revanth explained how Stride Robotics is working on a powered knee that is lighter, quieter, more affordable, and more functional than many powered options currently available. Their goal is to reduce strain on the hips, back, shoulders, and intact limb while helping amputees move with more confidence and less compensating. We talked about battery life, USB-C charging, fall prevention, waterproof possibilities, loaner programs, clinician support, and even future data feedback that could help prosthetists better understand how their patients are moving in real life. But what I loved most was that this was never just a conversation about a device. It was about dignity. It was about access. It was about making sure technology does not only serve the few who can afford it, but eventually reaches amputees around the world who are desperate for mobility, independence, and hope. This episode is also a call to action. Whether you are an amputee, prosthetist, engineer, student, investor, donor, or simply someone who cares, there is a place for you in this movement. Stride Robotics needs feedback, connection, research, support, and people willing to help move innovation forward. Limb loss awareness cannot end with awareness. It has to move us into action. My hope is that this episode inspires you to get involved, ask better questions, support meaningful change, and become a beacon of hope for those still fighting to reclaim their mobility and their life. Join the Movement. Bring dignity, independence, and mobility to all. Today, that’s YOUR Call to Action, your charge from this month of story telling. Be a part of the change, today! You can reach out to us: Angie: BAWarrior360@gmail.com Revanth: LinkedIn Stride Robotics: LinkedIn Stride Robotics: Website Thank you for watching, sharing, and subscribing. Let’s change lives, TOGETHER! See you next week, and as always, Be Healthy, Be Happy, Be YOU!!! Much love,
A Daughter and Mother’s Story of Resilience This week on BAWarrior Podcast, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with Bridget and her mom, Jamie, during Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, and I can honestly say this conversation will stay with me for a long time. Bridget is only fourteen, but the strength, maturity, and perspective she carries are far beyond her years. From the moment we started talking, I could feel that this episode was going to be something special. I first wanted people to meet Bridget for who she is today, not just through the lens of her diagnosis or her limb loss. She described herself as funny, athletic, and someone who tries to be outgoing, and I loved that. What stood out most to me was how clearly she wants the world to see that amputees are not limited. She wants people to understand that having limb loss does not mean your life becomes small. In her mind, amputees can still go after anything they want, and I think that message alone is powerful. Bridget found her passion and purpose with volleyball. She made her high school volleyball team! As we moved into her story, her mom Jamie helped fill in some of the earliest pieces. Bridget was only six years old when a soccer injury led to swelling in her leg, which quickly turned into tests, X-rays, an MRI, a biopsy, and the devastating news that no parent ever wants to hear: cancer. Jamie shared how ironic and heartbreaking it was that their family had already been deeply involved in raising money for St. Jude before ever realizing their own daughter would become a patient there. Within days, their whole world changed, and they moved to Memphis where Bridget underwent chemotherapy, a below-knee amputation, and months of treatment. Listening to Jamie speak as a mother hit me deeply. She talked about the helplessness of watching your child suffer and not being able to take that pain away. As a mom, I felt every word of that. She described the trauma of treatment, the fear, the exhaustion, and the emotional weight of having to stay strong in the middle of the battle. And yet through all of it, Bridget kept moving forward. Bridget’s strength was apparent almost immediately! She’s a fighter! What amazed me most was that cancer and amputation were not the end of Bridget's hardships. After treatment, she endured broken femurs, osteoporosis, growth plate complications, more surgeries, and more recovery. But even with all of that, she never seemed to settle into a mindset of defeat. Instead, she kept looking for the light. She kept believing there would be something better ahead. For Bridget, that turning point came through sports. When she was able to get back into athletics, especially volleyball, it gave her life, purpose, and joy again. You could hear it in her voice. Sports helped her step out of survival mode and back into being a kid, an athlete, and a competitor. That part of her identity mattered, and it became a huge part of her healing. One of my favorite moments in this episode was hearing about her determination on and off the court. She made her high school volleyball team, and even after her prosthetic blade cracked, she still found a way to keep going. Duct tape and all, she showed up. That story alone says so much about who she is. She is tough, gritty, and absolutely unwilling to let obstacles define her. We also talked about her dream of making the U.S. Paralympic volleyball team, and I have no doubt she is on a beautiful path toward something incredible. She spoke about how meaningful it is to be in a space where her disability feels normalized, where she is not looked at as different, but as fully belonging. That really stayed with me. USA Paralympic dreaming What Bridget shared at the end was simple, but powerful: it gets better. Maybe not overnight, maybe not quickly, but there is always something better ahead. That kind of wisdom from someone so young is exactly why this month's Survivors to Warriors series matters so much. This episode reminded me that warriors do not always look loud or dramatic. Sometimes they look like a fourteen-year-old girl with quiet strength, relentless hope, and the courage to keep going. Bridget is absolutely one of them. Make sure to join us on YouTube, HERE , or your favorite streaming platform for Bridget’s story and for several more Limb Loss Awareness month interviews of Survivors to Warriors. Like, Share, Subscribe today!!! Have a beautifully, blessed week and remember what a warrior you are! And as always, Be Healthy, Be Happy, Be YOU!!! Much love,
Kainoa Spenser’s Road to Recovery Week 2: Survivors to Warriors April is Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, and this episode of BAWarrior Podcast is one that will stay with me for a long time. In this powerful and deeply emotional conversation, I sat down with Kainoa Spenser, someone whose story reflects the very heart of what it means to move from surviving to truly living as a warrior. Kainoa and I first connected while I was facing my own amputation journey, so having him on the podcast felt especially meaningful. What makes his story so extraordinary is not just the severity of what he endured, but the way he speaks about it with honesty, humility, faith, and wisdom beyond his years. Kainoa is a quadruple amputee, having lost both legs and most of his fingers after a devastating and sudden illness in 2017 while he was away at college. Meeting Kainoa for the first time at PT! Before everything changed, Kainoa was a young man full of curiosity, ambition, and heart. He was studying international affairs, deeply involved in school, active in sports, passionate about history and philosophy, and rooted in the values of family and community. Those Hawaiian values of ohana—that no one gets left behind or forgotten-were already woven into who he was long before tragedy struck. And in many ways, those same values became part of what carried him through the darkest season of his life. During our conversation, Kainoa shared the terrifying progression of his illness, from feeling sick during finals week to being misdiagnosed, flown home in critical condition, and rushed into emergency care where his health rapidly deteriorated. A strep infection had entered his bloodstream and lungs, leading to septic shock and necrotizing fasciitis. He spent weeks in a medically induced coma, and when he woke up, his life had changed forever. Some of the amputation decisions were made while he was unconscious, leaving his parents to make impossible choices. Other decisions, including the loss of his fingers, required his own consent in the middle of unimaginable pain and confusion. What impacted me most was not only the heartbreak of his story, but the courage with which he spoke about the mental and emotional battle that followed. Kainoa was honest about the grief, the fear, the thoughts of being a burden, and the moments where he wondered if the weight of it all might break him. He spoke about missing the things many people take for granted-interlocking fingers with someone you love, standing in the shower, feeling sand beneath your feet. Those losses are real, and he did not try to minimize them. But what also came through so clearly was this: healing does not happen in isolation. Kainoa's story is a powerful reminder that community matters. Family matters. Faith matters. The right people around you can become the bridge that carries you from despair to hope. Through meeting other amputees, witnessing independence modeled before him, leaning into his faith, and receiving overwhelming support from loved ones and community, he slowly began to shift. He began to see that this was not the end of his story. Today, Kainoa is thriving. He finished his education, worked in high-level public service roles, became a homeowner, regained independence, and is now continuing his education at Thunderbird School of Global Management. He is living proof that resilience is built in layers, in waves, and through the willingness to keep turning the page. This episode is a reminder that even in our deepest pain, there is purpose. Even in the valley, there is light ahead. Kainoa's journey is not just about limb loss. It is about faith, perspective, gratitude, community, and discovering that life can still be beautiful, meaningful, and impactful after everything changes. Make sure to Like, Share and Subscribe so you catch more inspiring stories, like Kainoa’s in the coming weeks. And as always, Be Healthy, Be Happy, Be YOU!!! Much love,
In this episode, host Seth O'Brien, CP, FAAOP(D), speaks with Lt. Col. Christy “Clock” Kinsey, who underwent a transfemoral amputation and became the first female to return to duty as an Air Force pilot after limb loss. Christy shares the story of losing her right leg in a hit-and-run boating accident and the role peer mentorship played in her recovery. She walks through the challenges of remaining on active duty and ultimately returning to flight status—proving she could safely operate and egress an aircraft, meet rigorous physical standards, and adapt across multiple prosthetic systems for flying, running, and cycling. The conversation also explores the realities of active-duty care, including navigating HIPAA barriers, frequent relocation, coordinating between military and local providers, and planning for deployment. Christy reflects on pregnancy-related fit changes, mental health and isolation, and the critical role of flexible, clinician support in sustaining both her career and quality of life. O&P Clinical Care Insiders is produced by Association Briefings.
Life Behind the Numbers of Amputees and Limb Difference April is Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, and this year on the podcast, I'm doing something that means so much to me. Instead of focusing only on my own story, I'm opening the door for other amputees to share theirs. That has become a tradition for me over the last five seasons, and this year I'm building the entire month around one powerful theme: Survivors to Warriors. I truly cannot wait for you to hear these interviews, because the young adults I have coming on embody courage, resilience, grit, and hope in a way that will leave you inspired. Their stories are raw, real, and deeply moving, and I'm honored to call each of them my friend. As I prepared for this month, I wanted to begin with something eye-opening: the statistics. Because the truth is, before I became an amputee seven years ago, I hardly ever noticed amputees around me. Maybe once in a while I'd see someone, but it felt rare. Now, just like when you buy a certain car and suddenly see it everywhere, I notice amputees much more often. Even so, the numbers tell me I should be seeing even more. And that is what really stopped me in my tracks. Worldwide, someone loses a limb every thirty seconds. There are tens of millions of people around the world living with limb loss, and what absolutely breaks my heart is that up to ninety percent of them do not have access to prosthetic care. Ninety percent. That number is staggering. And it hits close to home for me because I know what it feels like to have the hope of mobility threatened. Amputee Coalition Statistics used on American Endovascular & Amputation Prevention site, April 25, 2022 Before my elective amputation, I was told everything would be covered. I did my homework because I knew prosthetics were expensive, and I needed the reassurance that if I moved forward with surgery, I would have access to the leg I needed. Then, about a month after surgery, we filed the insurance paperwork and I was denied. I can tell you without hesitation that those four weeks were some of the hardest weeks of my life. In the grand scheme of seven years, it may look like a blink. But in the moment, it felt like everything. I had dreams, goals, and visions of what life could be after amputation, and suddenly an insurance company was telling me no. So I fought. Every single weekday, I called. I kept climbing the ladder, talking to the next person and then the next. I refused to sit back and wait for someone else to decide my future. That season demanded every ounce of emotional and mental strength I had. I had to advocate for myself when I was exhausted, scared, and uncertain. And when I think about the reality that so many people around the world never get that access at all, it is heartbreaking. Amputee Coalition Statistics used on American Endovascular & Amputation Prevention site, April 25, 2022 The leading causes of limb loss are also telling. Vascular disease, including diabetes, makes up the largest percentage. Trauma is close behind, including accidents and injuries. Then comes cancer, though at a much smaller percentage. My own amputation came after years of surgeries following a karate injury, and eventually I made the deeply personal decision to amputate. Elective amputation is not an easy road, and whether amputation happens in an instant or after years of medical struggle, both journeys carry their own kind of trauma. That's the part people do not always see. Yes, limb loss is physical. It is visible. But the emotional and mental toll can be just as life-altering. Depression, anxiety, PTSD, fear, isolation, and loss of confidence are very real parts of this journey for so many amputees. People may see someone walking on a prosthesis and assume they are doing fine, but they do not always see the inner battle. They do not see the fear of falling, the anxiety of being watched, the struggle to trust your body again, or the grief of trying to figure out who you are now. Amputee Coalition Statistics used on American Endovascular & Amputation Prevention site, April 25, 2022 Physiopedia: The 5 Stages of Grief and Loss; Axelrod, J. September 26, 2018, https://psychcentral.com/lib/the-5-stages-of-loss-and-grief/ Prime Care, Blog by Eddie Zepeda. Published, January 20, 2025 And then there is phantom pain, something many amputees know all too well. Phantom pain and sensations can range from mild to absolutely overwhelming. It can feel like burning, stabbing, cramping, stinging, or relentless discomfort that comes out of nowhere and hits like a truck. It is one more reminder that the amputee journey is layered, complicated, and often invisible to the outside world. That is exactly why this month matters so much to me. I want these interviews to shine a light on the real lives behind the statistics. I want you to hear from young adults who have endured the unimaginable and are now learning how to rise, rebuild, and become warriors. Their stories deserve to be heard, and I know they will inspire anyone who listens. So as we step into Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, I hope you'll join me. Like, share, subscribe, and most of all, listen. These stories matter. These lives matter. And together, we can bring more awareness, more compassion, and more hope to a community that deserves to be seen. And as always, Be healthy, Be happy, Be YOU!!! Much love,
The Canvas of Courage What if the very thing you've been trying to hide… is actually the most beautiful part of your story? This week on the BAWarrior Podcast, I found myself sitting in reflection after a weekend of rest, sunshine, and quiet moments here in Arizona. As spring starts to show up and life begins to feel a little lighter, I couldn't help but think about something deeper, the parts of ourselves we often try to cover up. The broken pieces. The scars. The moments we wish never happened. The Beauty in the Cracks And I asked myself, and now I'm asking you, what if that brokenness isn't something to fix or hide… but something to honor? As an above-knee amputee, my brokenness is visible. It's physical. But what people don't always see is the emotional journey that comes with it. The uncertainty, the identity shifts, the moments of feeling completely lost. Even though my amputation was a choice after years of surgeries, I still didn't know what the outcome of my life would look like. I didn't know who I would become on the other side of that decision. It felt like my life had been rerouted-like I was on one track, moving forward with a plan, and suddenly everything shifted. A new direction. A new identity. A new path I didn't ask for. But here's what I've come to realize: that “mess”… that disruption… that brokenness… it became my canvas. This week at church, I heard a phrase that stopped me in my tracks: the mess becomes the masterpiece. And I felt that deeply. Because there have been so many moments over the past seven years where I felt like an absolute mess. Not put together. Not polished. Not “figured out.” But what if we're not supposed to be? What if the process; the struggle, the rebuilding, the redefining, is actually where the beauty is created? So often, society tells us to fix what's broken. Heal quickly. Move on. Or if we can't fix it, hide it. Cover it up so no one sees. But I want to challenge that. Because those scars, those cracks, they tell a story. They show where you've been, what you've survived, and who you've become. Honoring my scars, not hiding them And I don't see mine as something to hide anymore. Every scar on my body represents a battle I fought and didn't quit. Every challenge I've faced has shaped me into who I am today. I am still here. Still moving. Still growing. And that, to me, is something to be proud of. Next month, as we move into Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, I'll be sharing more stories, because I believe so strongly in the power of storytelling. Every single person in this community has a story. And while they may look similar on the surface, the strength, the resilience, the warrior spirit behind each one is completely unique. That's why I named this podcast BAWarrior. Because I truly believe that's what we are. But being a warrior doesn't mean life is easy. It means we fight. Daily. Sometimes hourly. We rise, even when the waves crash over us and try to pull us under. We find a way forward, even when it feels impossible. And every one of those battles… every one of those cracks… becomes part of the masterpiece. There's a beautiful form of art, Kintsugi- a Japanese art that repairs broken pieces of pottery with gold! It symbolizes resilience, embracing imperfections, and the beauty of a repaired life. The cracks aren't hidden. They're highlighted. Honored. And in the end, the piece becomes even more beautiful because of where it was broken. That's us. We are not less because of what we've been through. We are more. So if you're sitting here today feeling like a mess—good. That means something is being created. That means you're in the middle of the process. And masterpieces take time. They aren't rushed. They're layered. Built stroke by stroke, day by day. And here's something I've learned along the way—when we take the focus off ourselves and begin lifting others up, something shifts. There's healing in that. There's purpose in that. When you help someone else rise, you rise too. So this week, I want to give you something practical. Name your cracks. What is your brokenness? Write it down. Then ask yourself—what meaning have I been giving this? And how can I rewrite that meaning? And then—use it. Use your story to help someone else feel less alone. Share it. Speak it. Own it. Because when you do, you're not just healing yourself—you're becoming a light for someone else who might be struggling in silence. Stop covering your cracks. Start honoring them. Stand a little taller in your story. Smile when people look your way. Let curiosity open doors for connection. You are not something to hide—you are someone who has overcome. And if you're a woman walking this amputee journey and you're looking for a place to grow, to be seen, and to be supported, I invite you to join our Amped Women virtual chats on Wednesdays. You don't have to do this alone. Because here's the truth—I am still in the mess. Every day isn't perfect. Every day isn't easy. But I'm choosing to honor it. I'm choosing to trust that something beautiful is being created. And I want that for you too. You are not broken. You are becoming. You are a warrior. And your masterpiece is still being written. So chin up, rise up, warriors… And as always, Be Healthy, Be Happy, Be YOU!!!! Much love,
“The Name on the Bottom of My Foot” Do you feel like you belong? That's the question I want to start with today. Because if you're an amputee, or walking alongside someone who is, you've probably felt that quiet, unsettling shift… that moment where life no longer feels like it fits the way it used to. Welcome back to BAWarrior Podcast, a space for resilience, healing, and living life amplified exactly as you are. I'm your host, Angie Heuser, and I'm walking this journey right alongside you as an above-knee amputee. This past week, I did something playful… but it turned into something deeply meaningful. I was outside, barefoot in the Arizona warmth, and I had my prosthetic off because I was using my running blade. And for whatever reason, I grabbed a marker and wrote the name “Andy” on the bottom of my prosthetic foot. If you're a Toy Story fan, you already know the reference. Andy writes his name on the bottom of Woody's boot, and later Buzz's foot, as a symbol of belonging. It means those toys have a place. They matter. They are part of something bigger. And as soon as I wrote it… it hit me. Isn't that exactly what we're all searching for after limb loss? Because here's the truth, amputation doesn't just change your body. It changes your identity. It changes how you see yourself, how you move through the world, and how the world sometimes responds to you. For me, seven years ago when I chose to amputate, it felt like I was on a train that suddenly switched tracks without warning. I wasn't going where I thought I would anymore. And the first real question became: Who am I now? Because I didn't feel like I belonged in my old life the same way. Yes, I was still a wife, a mom, an athlete, but I also stood out in ways I never had before. From wearing gym shoes everywhere because of my prosthetic limitations, to navigating how people perceived me, to questioning where I fit socially… it shook my confidence and my identity. And what I've learned through talking to so many amputees is this: The surgery isn't the hardest part. Learning to walk again isn't even the hardest part. The hardest part… is figuring out where you belong now. That's the piece no one really prepares you for. And that's where this idea of Andy's name became so powerful to me. Because in Toy Story, those toys aren't afraid of being broken, they're afraid of being forgotten. Of not having a place. Of not belonging anymore. And isn't that what we feel sometimes too? But here's the shift. Here's where the warrior mindset comes in. Instead of asking, “Why did this happen to me?” I started asking, “What can I do with this?” That mindset changed everything. I began to see this journey not as an ending, but as a reinvention. I set goals. I pushed myself. I proved, to myself first, that I was still capable of living a full, meaningful life. And in that process, something bigger started to unfold. This podcast was born. Then the women's amputee chat group. Then stepping into research, working with incredible teams at MIT and Harvard, participating in studies, surgeries, and innovations to help move our community forward. My Community, My friends who always have my back! I found purpose. And I realized something important: Belonging doesn't come from going back to who you were. It comes from building who you are now. Our adversity creates our strength. Our identity evolves. Our scars tell our stories. And our community creates our belonging. That's why community matters so deeply. Because sometimes, you won't find belonging in the same places you used to. And that's okay. We outgrow spaces. People come and go. Life shifts. But there is a place for you. Your new “toy box,” if you will. A place where people understand you. Support you. See you, not in spite of your journey, but because of it. That's why I created the women's chats. Because I saw how many women were struggling with identity, friendships, relationships, confidence… all of it. And they needed a space where they could just be real. Because you don't have to do this alone. So here's what I want you to do this week, your call to action. I want you to mark yourself. Not necessarily with a tattoo—but with something meaningful. A word. A symbol. Your name. A reminder. Put it somewhere you'll see it every day—your mirror, your prosthetic, your journal, your car. Something that tells you: I belong. I have purpose. I matter. For me, it was “Andy.” It made me smile. It brought me back to special, warm memories with my kids. It gave me a sense of lightness and meaning all at once. But yours can be whatever speaks to you. Because on the hard days, and they will come, you need something to ground you. Something to remind you that even though life looks different… You are still part of this story. You are not forgotten. You are not alone. You are not without purpose. You are evolving. You are growing. You are becoming. So find your new community. Find your purpose. And most importantly… Mark yourself in a way that reminds you—you still belong. You are warriors. You are strong. And I am so proud of how far you've come—and where you're going. Until next time… Be healthy, Be happy, Be YOU!!! Much Love,
On this episode of The Heart of Innovation, we sit down with Dr. Jean Chen, a diabetes educator and retired podiatrist whose lifelong commitment to medicine was shaped by service, resilience, and lived experience. Dr. Chen knew she wanted to be a doctor by the age of five. Raised in Taiwan by a pediatrician father and a nurse mother who often cared for patients unable to pay, she learned early that medicine was about people first. After immigrating to the United States, growing up in Ohio, and studying at Cornell, her career took her through oncology before she found her calling in limb preservation through podiatry. Then her own path changed. Following a serious car accident, spinal cord injury, and surgical delays during COVID, Dr. Chen was left partially paralyzed, bringing her career as a practicing podiatrist to an unexpected end. At the same time, she was navigating her own journey with type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and a heart catheterization. Rather than stepping away from care, Dr. Chen changed how she serves. With the encouragement of her endocrinologist, Dr. Manasses, she retrained as a certified diabetes educator, bringing together clinical training and lived experience to help patients better understand how daily choices impact circulation, wound healing, and long-term health. Today, Dr. Chen works with people living with diabetes and peripheral artery disease, and she also contributes to national efforts through the American Heart Association PAD Collaborative, supporting initiatives to improve PAD awareness, diagnosis, and care across the country. This conversation explores what happens when medicine becomes personal, how purpose can evolve without being lost, and why early recognition of PAD and diabetes complications is critical to preventing limb loss. If you or someone you love has diabetes, leg pain, wounds, or trouble walking, don't wait. PAD Leg Saver Hotline: 1-833-PAD-LEGS Learn more: https://www.PADhelp.org Join the PAD Facebook Support Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peripheralarterydisease Early action saves limbs and lives.
Palliative care physician Dr. BJ Miller survived a near-death experience and lost three limbs at just 19 years old. In this intimate conversation, he tells Sarah how confronting mortality reshaped his purpose, and opened his heart to awe, humor, creativity, and love. BJ has been on a mission to redefine end-of-life care through his work at Mettle Health and his book, "A Beginner's Guide to the End." He invites you to challenge the fear and silence around death, and imagine a better way to live — and die.
Jullie Sammet and Ellen Chambliss, therapists from the Hanger Clinic, are here to tell us about an excellent event coming up for those who've lost a limb and for their caregivers and loved ones. It's Thursday 10/16 at Hamilton Point in Newburgh, click for all the details and some of the amazing advancements in recent years!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jullie Sammet and Ellen Chambliss, therapists from the Hanger Clinic, are here to tell us about an excellent event coming up for those who've lost a limb and for their caregivers and loved ones. It's Thursday 10/16 at Hamilton Point in Newburgh, click for all the details and some of the amazing advancements in recent years!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Navigating life after limb loss can be overwhelming, but having the right resources and teams in place can make all the difference. Hear from Olivia Bloom, Physical Therapist at WakeMed, to learn more.
In this episode, Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics editor-in-chief Dr. Steve Gard welcomes Brittany Pousett, CP, MSc, director of clinical research at Barber Prosthetics Clinic in Vancouver, British Columbia, for a compelling conversation about her recent study examining the relationship between prosthetic socket comfort, pain, and mobility across key treatment milestones for individuals with lower-limb loss. Together, they explore the critical role of outcome measurement in prosthetic care, the value of establishing clinically derived normative data, and how comfort and mobility intersect in meaningful ways. Brittany also shares insights into the challenges of working with retrospective data, the often-overlooked importance of psychosocial support, and promising directions for future research. Show notes JPO article: The Relationship between Socket Comfort, Pain, and Mobility Over Treatment Milestones for Individuals with Lower-Limb Loss Additional research article referenced: Detecting Changes in Comfort, Pain, and Mobility over Clinical Milestones for Individuals with Lower Limb-loss | Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.
Everything's been leading up to this! Dani's on a quest to rescue Hassan before the place he's in goes sky-high, and the sisters have vampires, witches, chupacabra, ghouls, and other stuff in their way! Will they and their friends be able to make things right, or will the LaDuracs continue their wicked ways without anyone to stop them?Episode 16/17Content Warnings: Adult Language, Adult Situations, Gore (Dissolution, Impalement, Limb Loss), ViolenceAmes plays Jordan "Dani" D'AmoreHarm plays Jasmine "Jazz" D'Amore This audio playthrough of Cozy Caverns Mysteries II is a Real Play Games Podcast production. Palladium Books® and Megaverse® are © Copyright and Registered Trademark owned by Palladium Books. Beyond the Supernatural, BTS-2, Lazlo Society, and Boxed Nightmares are trademarks of Kevin Siembieda and Palladium Books, Inc. Used with permission. You can find out more about Beyond the Supernatural 2nd Edition™ and the entire Palladium Books Megaverse® of role-playing games at www.palladiumbooks.com or wherever fine role-playing games are sold!DriveThruRpg Affiliate Link - https://www.drivethrurpg.com/index.php?affiliate_id=177655 Our theme song “Ode to Jay” is performed by Tunedogs and used under a commercial license, which includes synch licensing.If you want to reach out to the Real Play Games Podcast, feel free to email us at realplaygamespodcast@gmail.com or reach us on Twitter @realplaypod, on Instagram @realplaygamespod, on Tumblr under RealPlayGamesPodcast or on Bluesky @realplaygamespod.bsky.social If you'd like to help support the show, as well as get early access to episodes, exclusive episodes, and behind-the-scenes looks at how we make our adventures, head on over to www.patreon.com/realplaygamespod and become a Patron today!Support the show
In this episode, guest host Caitlin Peters, CPO, a board-certified prosthetist and orthotic resident at Shriners Hospital for Children in Greenville, SC, sits down with Shree Thaker, Director of Communications and Partnerships at the Amputee Coalition. Together, they explore the Coalition's powerful evolution—from a grassroots peer support group to a national organization offering robust resources like virtual support groups, youth camps, educational materials, and advocacy initiatives such as So Everybody Can Move. Shree shares how the organization empowers individuals with limb loss and limb difference through free, accessible programming and how professionals and community members can get involved in advancing the Coalition's mission. O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.
Things are reaching a fever pitch; as the D'Amore sisters head over to help Milena out at the Magickal Moon, dark forces are coalescing, and Hassan's life is hanging in the balance! They're up against the clock, but at least they've got friends willing to help. Will that be enough?Episode 15/17Content Warnings: Adult Language, Adult Situations, Gore (Impalement, Limb Loss), ViolenceAmes plays Jordan "Dani" D'AmoreHarm plays Jasmine "Jazz" D'Amore This audio playthrough of Cozy Caverns Mysteries II is a Real Play Games Podcast production. Palladium Books® and Megaverse® are © Copyright and Registered Trademark owned by Palladium Books. Beyond the Supernatural, BTS-2, Lazlo Society, and Boxed Nightmares are trademarks of Kevin Siembieda and Palladium Books, Inc. Used with permission. You can find out more about Beyond the Supernatural 2nd Edition™ and the entire Palladium Books Megaverse® of role-playing games at www.palladiumbooks.com or wherever fine role-playing games are sold!DriveThruRpg Affiliate Link - https://www.drivethrurpg.com/index.php?affiliate_id=177655 Our theme song “Ode to Jay” is performed by Tunedogs and used under a commercial license, which includes synch licensing.If you want to reach out to the Real Play Games Podcast, feel free to email us at realplaygamespodcast@gmail.com or reach us on Twitter @realplaypod, on Instagram @realplaygamespod, on Tumblr under RealPlayGamesPodcast or on Bluesky @realplaygamespod.bsky.social If you'd like to help support the show, as well as get early access to episodes, exclusive episodes, and behind-the-scenes looks at how we make our adventures, head on over to www.patreon.com/realplaygamespod and become a Patron today!Support the show
This week we learn about Limb Loss Awareness Month from the Minneapolis VA Health Care System, hear from Fairview Health Services on becoming a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon company and get and update from our Senior Enlisted Leader. Guests include: Dr. Molly Matsumoto – Minneapolis VA Health Care System Shawn McLaughlin – Minneapolis VA […] The post Limb Loss Awareness Month and Fairview Health Services appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.
This Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, The Heart of Innovation presents an extraordinary story of resilience and transformation. Join hosts Kym McNicholas and Dr. John Phillips as they welcome Thomas Francois, a peripheral artery disease amputee turned Santa Rosa Junior College baseball coach. Discover how Thomas views his amputation as a "gift" and a pivotal "Saul to Paul" moment in his life. Don't miss this powerful episode exploring: • Overcoming physical challenges • Finding purpose through adversity • Redefining success in sports and life Tune in to hear Thomas's remarkable journey from PAD patient to inspiring coach. #LimbLossAwareness #PADSurvivor #InspiringCoach #HeartOfInnovation #peripheralarterydisease #padsupport #padawareness #amputationprevention
Welcome back to the High Heels and Tea Podcast! In this episode, we're joined by Anthony Taylor, founder of Connecting Lim Loss! He shares how he lost a limb from gun violence in North Saint Louis and the coping mechanisms and resources that have helped him navigate his new journey. Anthony shares tips that encourage self-awareness and conversations to empower the healing for amputees, including self-publishing a book: "5 Ways to Heal from Amputation." His organization's mission focuses on self-support and using the community, such as outpatient therapy, as a crucial role to help other amputees access medical necessities, emotional adjustment (including anger, depression, and despair), and functional abilities. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 1. Understanding outpatient limb loss therapy. 2. Gaining confidence and overcoming social anxiety after amputation. 3. Tips and Strategies for Coping with Limb Loss 4. Computer-Controlled Prosthetic Legs CONNECT WITH US: - Connect with Anthony Taylor on InstaGram @connecting_limloss - Stay connected with the podcast across all social media platforms: - For Instagram, follow @high_heels_tea_podcast - Visit the website at munroeshoetique.com/pages/high-heels-tea-podcast - For bookings or inquiries, email booking@highheelsandteapodcast.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/high-heels--tea-podcast/support
In this episode of Walk and Roll Live, we sit down with Luis Ovando, a dedicated peer counselor and member of Amputee Connection. Luis shares his personal experiences as an amputee and discusses the crucial role of peer support in navigating life after limb loss. From practical resources to emotional guidance, Luis offers insight into the community and services available to amputees and their families. This episode sheds light on the realities faced by amputees, the importance of connection, and the meaningful impact of shared experiences in building resilience and independence. Walk and Roll Live Amputee Connection
Today, you'll learn about a new groundbreaking bionic leg, the problem with first impressions, and new tech that can detect microplastics in water in milliseconds. Bionic Leg “Bionic leg makes walking quicker and easier for amputees, trial shows.” by Hannah Devlin. 2024. “5.6 Million++ Americans are Living with Limb Loss and Limb Difference: New Study Published.” Amputee Coalition. 2024. “Agonist-antagonist Myoneural Interface (AMI).” MIT Media Lab. N.D. “Continuous neural control of a bionic limb restores biomimetic gait after amputation.” by Hyungeun Song, et al. 2024. First Impressions “How first impressions can trap us into making suboptimal decisions.” by Eric W. Dolan. 2024. “Missing out by pursuing rewarding outcomes: Why initial biases can lead to persistent suboptimal choices.” by Chris Harris, et al. 2023. Nanoplastic Detection “Cutting-edge technology detects nanoplastics in water - instantly.” McGill. 2024. “Scientists find about a quarter million invisible nanoplastic particles in a liter of bottled water.” by Seth Borenstein. 2024. “Nanoplastics in Water: Artificial Intelligence-Assisted 4D Physicochemical Characterization and Rapid In Situ Detection.” by Zi Wang, et al. 2024. Follow Curiosity Daily on your favorite podcast app to get smarter with Calli and Nate — for free! Still curious? Get exclusive science shows, nature documentaries, and more real-life entertainment on discovery+! Go to https://discoveryplus.com/curiosity to start your 7-day free trial. discovery+ is currently only available for US subscribers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
EXPLOSIVE EMOTIONSMEET THE AUTHOR Podcast: LIVE - Episode 172Originally aired Wednesday September 4,2024Featuring Author KALE SUDHOFFABOUT KALE: My name is Kale Sudhoff, and I am currently 19 years old. I am busy attending college to become an Elementary School Teacher and am working as an Enrichment teacher at a local Preschool. I am a typical teenager hanging out with friends, but in my free time I love to write and illustrate children's books. I have written and illustrated three children's books. In the Fall of 2020, when I was a Sophomore in High School, I released my first book, "Danny the Duck Heads South," and in the Spring of 2022, when I was a Junior in High School, I released my second book, "Danny and Kevin Conquer Camping." Throughout my school years, I have seen kids being excluded for being different or having a disability, so I wanted "Danny and Kevin Conquer Camping" to raise awareness for Limb Loss and Limb Difference. My latest book, "Stewart H. Quills and His Explosive Emotions" was released in the Fall of 2023. I am on a mission to inspire children to thrive, regardless of their challenges. I am currently working on my next book, "Born to Stand Out," to raise awareness for Hearing Loss. A portion of every book sale is donated to The Aktion Club, a local organization for people with disabilities. I have recently connected with Allie Gray, Miss Ohio's Teen 2024 and together we have founded Silent Opportunities, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness and support for the hearing loss and deaf community. Our mission is to raise funds for the Ohio School for the Deaf and to award a scholarship to a local high school graduate impacted by hearing loss or disability.Links to watch or listen to all episodes at: https://indiebooksource.com/podcast
Emily Allen interviews Dr. Simon Buck, a writer, historian, and musician. His first monograph, on old age and music in the US South, is under contract with the University of Illinois Press. He is employed at the University of Edinburgh (UK) on research projects concerning the intersection of British slavery, healthcare, and university education in Edinburgh. The interview focuses on Buck's article “‘Up on Cripple Creek': Limb Loss, Difference, and Disability Spectacle in Southern Roots Music.”
More and more Americans rely on prostheses. They're custom-fitted, highly personal, and extremely expensive. Zachary Crockett investigates. SOURCES:Jordan Beckwith, YouTuber and advocate.Eric Neufeld, owner and medical director of Agile Orthopedics. RESOURCES:"Medicare Coverage of Durable Medical Equipment & Other Devices," by Medicare (2024)."Limb Loss in the U.S.," infographic by the Amputee Coalition (2022)."A Robot Hand Helps Amputees 'Feel' Again," by Jeffery Delviscio (Scientific American, 2019)."Differences in Myoelectric and Body-Powered Upper-Limb Prostheses: Systematic Literature Review," by Stephanie L. Carey, Derek J. Lura, and Jason Highsmith (Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development, 2015)."Local Coverage Determination: Lower Limb Prostheses," from the Medicare Coverage Database (effective 2015)."Variation in the Care of Surgical Conditions: Diabetes and Peripheral Arterial Disease," by Philip P. Goodney, Nino Dzebisashvili, David C. Goodman, and Kristen K. Bronner (Dartmouth Atlas of Health Care Series, 2014)."Estimating the Prevalence of Limb Loss in the United States: 2005 to 2050," by Kathryn Ziegler-Graham, Ellen J. MacKenzie, Patti L. Ephraim, Thomas G. Travison, and Ron Brookmeyer (Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 2008).
4:00) - Most Interesting | 126. Amputees Feel Warmth In Their Missing Hand(8:40) - Listener Favorite | 118. Robotics & AI in Sheet Metal Forming(12:23) - Most Impactful | 112. Bringing Humans Back Into The Loop For AI(16:30) - Hidden Gem(s) | 135. Reinventing Retail in The Connectivity Age & 144. An implantable device could enable injection-free control of diabetes
With 28 million Americans at risk for limb loss due to trauma, tumors, or infections, the nonprofit Limb Preservation Foundation is enhancing the quality of life of people in the Rocky Mountain region. Executive Director Marcy Rubik joins us to talk about how health care professionals from all backgrounds have joined this effort to offset financial stressors, provide education, and advance research.***Information provided in this podcast should not be relied upon for personal, medical, legal, or financial decisions and you should consult an appropriate professional for specific advice that pertains to your situation. Health care providers should exercise their professional judgment in connection with the provision of healthcare services. The information contained in this podcast is not intended to be, nor is it, a substitute for medical diagnosis, treatment, advice, or judgment relative to a patient's specific condition. Website: https://limbpreservation.org/ Show email : Wnlpodcast@COPIC.com
This week we learn about Limb Loss Awareness from the Minneapolis VA Health Care System, meet with Pine City Beyond the Yellow Ribbon and get an update from our Senior Enlisted Advisor. Guests include: Dr. Molly Matsumoto – Minneapolis VA … Continue reading → The post Limb Loss Awareness and BTYR Pine City appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.
(0:50) - Amputees Feel Warmth In Their Missing Hand--As always, you can find these and other interesting & impactful engineering articles on Wevolver.com.To learn more about this show, please visit our shows page. By following the page, you will get automatic updates by email when a new show is published. Be sure to give us a follow and review on Apple podcasts, Spotify, and most of your favorite podcast platforms!
In the near future, birth defects, traumatic injuries, limb loss and perhaps even cancer could be cured through bioelectricity—electrical signals that communicate to our cells how to rebuild themselves. This innovative idea has been tested on flatworms and frogs by biologist Michael Levin, whose research investigates how bioelectricity provides the blueprint for how our bodies are built—and how it could be the future of regenerative medicine. Levin is professor of biology at Tufts University and director of the Tufts Center for Regenerative and Developmental Biology.
It's been two years, but we're excited to share an update on the National Limb Loss and Preservation Registry. Our guest, Jeffrey Brandt, CPO and member of the Registry's External Collaborative Panel, joins us to discuss how the registry has progressed, goals for the future and how you can get involved.
In today's episode, Adam Miller, president of OPGA, talks with Jeff Brandt, of Brandt Ventures, about the Limb Loss and Preservation Registry and the progress they've seen in the last year. They discuss the importance of the outcomes program in providing evidence-based care in the O&P profession.
In episode 237, we get curious about prosthetics with the help of Lindsey, a certified prosthetic/orthotic clinician with Hanger Clinic. We learn what limb loss and limb difference are, how prosthetics help people (and even animals) with limb loss and limb difference, and we learn a bit about the fascinating history of prosthetics. Visit the Curious Kid Podcast Website - http://www.curiouskidpodcast.com Send Us An E-mail - curiouskidpodcast@gmail.comLeave Us A Voicemail - 856-425-2324Support Us On Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/CuriouskidpodcastShop Curious Kid Podcast Merchandise - http://tee.pub/lic/fqXchg3wUVUFollow Us On Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/curiouskidpod/Follow Us On Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/curiouskidpodcast/Follow Us On Twitter - https://twitter.com/CuriousKidPodCamp No Limits - https://nolimitsfoundation.org
In 2015, Alan Fraser was in the best physical condition of his life. But then one day after training he went home and realized that something just wasn't right. Thankfully his (now) husband Tim jumped into action and drove a couple hours to see why Alan had stopped responding when Tim kept checking on him. Tim found Alan unconscious in his bed, helped revive him and then rushed him to the nearest ER. They were told later that if he hadn't come in at that time, he wouldn't be with us today. His condition was so bad that the medical team had to put him in an induced medical coma in order to save his life. He was "out" for two weeks. He describes how the induced coma saved his life, but it had other severe consequences that would impact him the rest of his life.His story is real, it's heartfelt and it has meaning and a message for all of us... Listen as he describes the ordeal that he had to endure and he shares what he's learned from this experience.NOTE: This is a re-issue of an earlier episode when my podcast was new. I'm re-sharing some of the best ones as a Friday feature, since more people will now be able to hear and learn from it.Photo: Copyright Wilkinson/2022Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com
After a terrible accident, Keisha Green had both legs amputated below the knee. She needed to turn to someone who could get her the help and the financial assistance she needed, and so she came to Montlick. For Limb Loss Awareness Month, Veronica talks with Keisha about how she not only survived her accident but insisted on thriving. The two are joined by Keisha's attorney Sara, who fought relentlessly to get Keisha the recovery she needed to heal and start a new chapter of her life. The purpose of this show is to provide general information about the law. Our guests will not provide any individualized legal advice. If you have a personal situation and need legal advice, contact us nationwide at 1-800-LAW-NEED for your free legal consultation with a Montlick attorney. Follow us on social @montlicklaw or visit lawyersinthehouse.com for more info, clips and tips.
My bouncy running blade You can do it! It's time to bounce back! April is Limb Loss/Limb Difference Awareness month and I have a packed line up of some incredible people for you to hear from, feel motivated by, and relate to!! Next week I am starting off this amazing event with someone who has just published her first book, who hasn't lost a limb but was dealt a rough hand, which has led her to rise up and carve out an amazing life for herself, helping other people reach their full potential. Coach Dar, who has worked with many professional athletes, the corporate world, and now is even speaking with youth who have experienced Limb Loss just published “The Art of Bouncing Back”! Bouncing back is April's theme on my podcast, because we've ALL been some place that we've had to make the decision to give up or bounce back, right? Join me next week to hear Coach Dar's amazing story and some tips and techniques from her on how we can all rise up to our full potential no matter our circumstance. Don't miss this event and April's line up!! Make sure you subscribe so you don't miss an episode!! Rise up, Warriors, rise up! Grab your copy of Coach Dar's new book, "The Art of Bouncing Back", read it, take notes, and then tune in next week to hear from Coach Dar, herself. You'll be glad you did! Until next week and as always, Be Healthy, Be Happy, Be YOU!!! Much love, Angie
Join The Kernels as they reflect on Jon Turteltaub's 1993 family favourite: 'Cool Runnings'.Reconnecting with much-loved member-berries, devilish Disney, and blockbuster bobsleighs - The Kernels share their likes, dislikes, ratings, & even treat you to both an original song, AND a unique game where the create a movie trailer.Enjoy you courageous candies!Thanks for popping by. We hope you enjoy The Podcorn Kernel Podcast. Please get in touch with any praise, criticism, feedback or advice.Compliments will be greeted with kindness. Criticism will be catered to with carnage. Contact us at : thepodcornkernels@gmail.com or find us on us on the following social platforms:Instagram: thepodcornkernelsThreads: thepodcornkernelsTwitter: @podcornkernelsWebsite: thepodcornkernels.co.ukTikTok: @thepodcornkernels
In this episode, Nneka Holder, MD, MPH, shares various strategies to improve meningococcal vaccine uptake in adolescent patients, including: Use of school vaccine mandates beyond entry requirementsPromote more frequent visits by incorporating immunization platforms and using text or email reminders to bring patients back to the officeSchedule follow-up visits before patients leave the office to increase retentionIncrease access and convenience by:Implementing quick, immunization-only visitsPromoting use of alternative vaccinations sites (eg, school gyms, local pharmacies) for meningococcal booster dosesAddress vaccine hesitancy, ensuring patients and parents have a voice in how their healthcare is managedContinue to bring up the importance of meningococcal vaccines at every visit even after vaccine refusalFaculty: Nneka Holder, MD, MPHAssociate ProfessorDepartment of PediatricsMedStar Georgetown University HospitalWashington, DCLink to full program: https://bit.ly/3T0GLG2
"It's not a time to say I'm sorry, It's a time to acknowledge that, yes in fact you had something you did not plan for, a traumatic event. But also you did have a baby and to step into that joy and gratitude and not lose sight of those things.-Jamie Cline Jamie shares how her daughter Callie has persevered with tetralogy of fallot and later on a limb loss.She learned about her daughter's tetralogy of fallot just hours after having her 7 weeks premature. When Callie turned one, she shares how they came to the decision to do a lower leg amputation. Jamie shares Callie's journey of learning to walk with a prosthetic as well as the emotional journey she embarked on as a mother. [3:00] Jamie shares about their family and hobbies [4:50] Close monitoring during Jamie's pregnancy due to her pre-existing type 1 diabetes [5:37] Callie was born 7 weeks early via c-section [6:43] Learning of Callie's heart condition, Tetralogy of fallot [8:30] The grief and anger to follow the initial diagnosis [10:35] Feeling cheated of hopes and dreams she had [11:40] Sharing the emotional challenges of others saying they are sorry rather than celebration [13:12] Callie had to be transferred to a different hospital for the surgery [15:00] How their community rallied around supported their family [17:18] Callie went between the NICU and PICU for close to 3 months [20:40] The best Christmas gift- Callie got to come home for Christmas [21:40] Noticing Callie's limb difference shortly after birth [26:05] At 19 months old, Callie had her amputation surgery [27:30] Decision making process [30:08] How grief was a big part of Jamie's journey to healing [32:00] Jamie shares how she took care of her self during this difficult time [36:00] How Callie has changed their lives and the positive things she has gleaned from being her mother Connect with Jaime: Instagram Website Whether you are a parent or professional, we want you to join our community. Sign up for our newsletter here. Parents, download our free parent starter kit. When you download our starter kit, you'll learn how to: Give medicine to your child without it becoming a wrestling match Prepare your child (and yourself) for a shot so they can feel less anxious Create and use a coping plan for any medical appointment or procedure The first sign of sniffles, or worse, shouldn't send you into a tailspin. Feel confident in your role as a parent and advocate, no matter what medical situation you're facing. Child life specialists, get affordable PDUs on-demand here. Shop for your CLOC gear here. Catch up with CLOC on Instagram, Facebook and meet Katie for a Q+A every Monday at 10 AM CST.
Hayden Baily joins us in the studio this week! Hayden gained a huge following on Tik Tok as the legless shed hunter. He talks about adapting to life after losing his legs, hunting, and brings in a pile of shed antlers in the studio to share some stories! Enjoy! "Limb Loss Boss" Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@limb_loss_boss?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc https://workingclassbowhunter.com/ YouTube Channel https://www.facebook.com/WorkingClassBowhunter/ https://www.instagram.com/workingclassbowhunter/ https://twitter.com/WCBOWHUNTER The WCB Podcast is presented by: Elite Archery CODE: WCB for all outdoor group products Scent Crusher - Scent Off. Game On. Camo Fire Spy Point Trail Cameras Big Tine - Attract - Develop - Grow Code: WCB2022 Old Barn Taxidermy HHA Sports HHA CODE: WCB15 Huntworth Gear Code: WCB15 Novix Treestands Code WCB22 Victory Archery ThermaSeat Code: WCTS Leupold Optics Trophyline CODE WCB Grizzly Hunting Blinds | Code WCB
Kevin Symms, CO, BOCPO, LPO, from OandPServe LLC Consulting joins Jacki and Brendan to talk about the Limb Loss and Preservation Registry (LLPR). Interested in providing evidence based care? Join the LLPR today!Many thanks to our sponsor, Thuasne USA! Learn more about the Rebel Series and Rebel Reliever. O&P in the news: TODAY exclusive: Meet Isa, the newest Gerber baby who has a limb difference | Today Visit spsco.com Also, email us! The O&P Check-in is a bi-monthly podcast featuring the latest orthotics and prosthetics news, trends, best practices, regulations and policies. Designed for O&P professionals, join Brendan Erickson and Jacki Green as they interview guests and share the latest advancements in the industry.
Audrey and Sarah discuss: Pivotal moment in your lyfe in regards to your limb differencesImportance of languageTypes of limb differencesCongenital versus acquired limb differencesHer experience going from patient to practitionerMental health implications for people with limb differencesAdvocating for herself and othersDisclosing your disability on job applicationsParenting kids with limb differencesOccupational therapy's role in working with people with limb differencesMentioned Resources:Stella Young's Ted Talk: “I'm not your inspiration thank you very much”Judith Heumann: “Our fight for disability rights - and why we're not done yet.”Symbrachydactyly - mentions benefits of OT & hand campsChildren with upper limb differences have better emotional healthAmputee CoalitionLucky Fin ProjectIAmPossible FoundationReach CharityCDC: Upper and Lower Limb Reduction DefectsConnect with AudreyEmail: theamplifiedot@gmail.comInstagram Link: https://instagram.com/theamplifiedotConnect with the show: Subscribe: https://ot4lyfe.com/subscribe/ Website: https://ot4lyfe.com/OT 4 Lyfe Discord Server: Click here to create a free account and sign inInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ot.4.lyfe/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ot4lyfe
Hillary Sussman has been a physical therapist for 24 years, she is a mother of three, and a dog mom to Roxy ; the inspiration for her new inclusive children's book series- The Adventures of Roxy 1:00 Hillary Sussman, PT and the Adventures of Roxy 2:30 April is Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month 3:20 Theme of the Amputee Coalition: "Your Ordinary is Extraordinary" 6:15 The Adventures of Roxy 9:40 Inclusive Childrens Book. Call to Action: My hope is that Roxy and her life lessons can be shared with ALL children, specifically those who are living with any physical, learning, or emotional challenge, to help them gain confidence ; while also educating ALL children to be more inclusive and accepting of differences. My goal is to get Roxy and her educational activities into all elementary schools, to start this dialogue early and hopefully mitigate bullying. My call to action is to educate your children EARLY about differences, using inclusive books, to share them in your schools, libraries, and communities, to create a more accepting environment for all kids, especially those living with limb and other differences. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marsh-naidoo/message
Buckle up for this one, its a really amazing, and extraordinary story of courage, will power, and total inspiration. Lindsay had a very rare underlying illness, CMT Disease, that meant she had weakened sensations in her feet, and so she couldn't feel the pain of an infection caused by a nail she had stepped on, one day while walking. Over many weeks, she became very ill, and very weak, and doctors simply couldn't find what was wrong with her until it was too late. Eventually, on realizing the spreading infection could kill her, they took steps to amputate. Lindsay is a beacon of hope for those who are living life after limb loss, and even has a coaching business, helping other limb loss survivors and other medical trauma survivors, by building hope and resilience and practicing mindfulness and wellbeing. Simply amazing!Links for Lindsay:Insta: https://www.instagram.com/lindsayboudreaucoaching/Website: https://www.lindsayboudreau.com/FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/youramplifiedlifeprogramSupport the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Wtfmupodcast)
This is the After Thoughts section for the previous episode. If you missed it, go back!! We discuss Lindsay's story of how she came to have her leg amputated and the freedom and power she has felt since. We also discuss trauma in general, and how all trauma is relative and relevant, and is valid no matter how small you think it is. Thank you Lindsay!Links for Lindsay:Insta: https://www.instagram.com/lindsayboudreaucoaching/Website: https://www.lindsayboudreau.com/FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/youramplifiedlifeprogramSupport the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Wtfmupodcast)
Stability and Falls Evaluation after AMPutation (SAFE-AMP) 1, is the first study in a series that focuses on microprocessor-controlled knee technology for diabetic and dysvascular patients with above knee amputations. Hanger's Director of Clinical Research Shane Wurdeman, PhD, CP, FAAOP (D), shares the findings with Jacki and Brendan. Listen to learn about how MPKs can decrease the odds of an injurious fall by 250%!Click here to learn more about the study. Read more about Shane's work at the Hanger Institute. Have a question for Shane? Click here to connect. Many thanks to our sponsor, Amoena! Browse the Adapt Air breast prostheses product line. O&P in the news: Mayo Clinic launches first national collaborative Limb Loss and Preservation Registry | Mayo Clinic News Network Visit spsco.com Also, email us! The O&P Check-in is a bi-monthly podcast featuring the latest orthotics and prosthetics news, trends, best practices, regulations and policies. Designed for O&P professionals, join Brendan Erickson and Jacki Green as they interview guests and share the latest advancements in the industry.