Katie Thomas on Parenting, Advocacy, and Living One-Handed

Katie Thomas on Parenting, Advocacy, and Living One-Handed

Released Tuesday, 12th August 2025
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Katie Thomas on Parenting, Advocacy, and Living One-Handed

Katie Thomas on Parenting, Advocacy, and Living One-Handed

Katie Thomas on Parenting, Advocacy, and Living One-Handed

Katie Thomas on Parenting, Advocacy, and Living One-Handed

Tuesday, 12th August 2025
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In this heartfelt and uplifting episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes Katie Thomas for a conversation filled with honesty, humor, and hard-earned wisdom. Born without her right arm below the elbow, Katie began receiving care at Shriners Hospital in Tampa at age 3 and experimented with various prosthetics throughout her childhood. Over time, she discovered that prosthetics were a helpful tool—but not essential for her to live a full, capable life.

Now a devoted parent, Katie opens up about raising her son, who has Witteveen Colk syndrome, a rare genetic disorder. She shares her journey through early intervention services, advocating for genetic testing, and ensuring her child receives the support he needs. Her advice to parents? Trust your instincts, push for answers, and never hesitate to speak up for your child.

Katie and Mike also trade stories about life with one hand, from adapting daily tasks to navigating public perceptions and occasional misconceptions. Their conversation touches on sports, school, prosthetic “show-and-tell,” and their shared mission to be seen as capable—not simply inspirational for living their lives.

This episode is a mix of candid storytelling, practical insight, and lighthearted connection that will leave you informed and inspired.

#Parenting #DisabilityAdvocacy #Prosthetics #WitteveenColkSyndrome #We’reNotStumped #MikeBolland #DisabilityAwareness #OneHandLife #Inclusion

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Want to be considered as a guest? Fill out the form here: https://werenotstumped.com/podcast-guest-information/

Learn more about our host Mike Bolland: https://mikebolland.com/

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From The Podcast

We’re not stumped.Not by limb loss. Not by fear. Not by anything life throws our way.We’re Not Stumped is more than just a podcast—it's a platform dedicated to celebrating resilience, inclusion, and the indomitable human spirit. Hosted by Mike Bolland, a one-handed cancer survivor and the first person with limb loss to compete on the PBA tour, the podcast delves into the real-life stories of individuals who have turned adversity into strength.Launched in 2022 after Mike retired from a successful career at Discount Tire, the podcast was born out of his desire to give back to the amputee community. Alongside starting the Joe & Marie Bolland’s Helping Hands nonprofit—which aims to help amputees obtain the prosthetics they need to live a full life—Mike created We’re Not Stumped to share the journeys of those who, like him, have faced challenges head-on.Each episode features candid conversations with amputees, family members, medical professionals, and advocates, shedding light on topics like adaptive living, inclusive employment practices, and the latest in prosthetic technology. With authenticity, compassion, and a touch of humor, Mike ensures that no question is off-limits, fostering an environment where guests can share their experiences openly.Beyond the podcast, Mike has embraced stand-up comedy, performing across Arizona and the Southwest, using humor as a tool to connect and inspire. His multifaceted approach to advocacy underscores a central message: challenges don't define us—our responses do.Join us as we amplify voices, break down stigmas, and build a community where no one feels like they're going it alone. Because here’s the truth:

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