Category: Blog

What does it take to turn unimaginable adversity into an extraordinary life of purpose? In this compelling episode of The AMP’D UP211 Podcast, host and creator Rick Bontkowski, a passionate advocate and amputee himself, dives deep into the incredible journey of William Pike.

From surviving the catastrophic Mount Ruapehu eruption to losing his right leg, William’s resilience and adventurous spirit have made him a global inspiration. He shares his story of creating the William Pike Challenge, a transformative youth development program, and founding Pro Armour, a company helping amputees confidently tackle the elements.

Join us as we explore the pivotal moments that shaped William’s path, his drive to empower others through outdoor adventure, and how stepping outside our comfort zones can unlock our greatest potential.  Tune in to hear Rick and William tackle the big questions about life, loss, and the courage it takes to thrive. Don’t miss this unforgettable conversation filled with grit, wisdom, and inspiration!

Like, comment, and subscribe to The AMP’D UP211 Podcast for more empowering stories from the limb difference community and beyond. 

In this gripping episode of The AMP’D UP211 Podcast, host and creator Rick Bontkowski sits down with Eric LeMarque, a former professional hockey player and snowboarder who endured the unimaginable. Trapped in the frozen Sierra Nevada Mountains for eight days, Eric fought against brutal conditions, isolation, and his own inner battles in a journey that would ultimately change his life forever.

Eric’s story is one of survival, redemption, and faith discovered in the face of overwhelming odds. Join us as we dive into the depths of Eric’s incredible journey, exploring how he transformed his life after a life-altering ordeal. Rick, himself a right-leg amputee and inspiring force behind The AMP’D UP211 Podcast, brings unique insights to this powerful conversation about finding strength, purpose, and forgiveness.

Don’t miss this unforgettable episode, subscribe to stay updated and hear more inspiring stories that redefine what it means to overcome.

Get ready for an unforgettable episode of The AMP’D UP211 Podcast! Join host and creator Rick Bontkowski, a right-leg amputee and passionate advocate, as he sits down with Billy Brimblecom Jr., an unstoppable force in the limb loss community. After losing his left leg to Ewing’s Sarcoma, Billy turned his story into a mission – empowering uninsured amputees to reclaim their lives through the Steps of Faith Foundation. He’s also the co-creator of Thundergong!, an annual music and comedy show with big-name stars that raises funds for this incredible cause.

In this episode, Rick and Billy dive into resilience, the transformative power of music, and the importance of giving back. Hear how Billy’s journey from musician to advocate inspires others, along with some behind-the-scenes scoop on Thundergong!

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation full of laughter, real talk, and hope – hit play and get AMP’D UP!

In this inspiring episode of The AMP’D UP211 Podcast, host Rick Bontkowski, a right below-the-knee (RBK) amputee, sits down with Cosi Belloso, a renowned physical therapist and breast cancer survivor, with over 23 years of experience helping amputees regain their mobility and rebuild their lives. Cosi, who runs her own outpatient clinic, Palanca, Inc., is also the host of the popular Cosi Talks, where she shares expert advice on overcoming the physical and emotional challenges of limb loss.

Join us as Cosi reveals her journey from trauma ICU to transforming the lives of those with limb differences. In this heartfelt conversation, she opens up about her passion for empowering amputees, the importance of a positive mindset, and how her personal battles have fueled her mission to help others. Whether you’re navigating life with limb loss or supporting someone who is, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to take the next step in your journey.

Hosted by RBK amputee Rick Bontkowski, The AMP’D UP211 Podcast brings you real stories of resilience, triumph, and the power of community. Don’t miss this episode full of wisdom, hope, and practical tips for overcoming adversity.

In this powerful episode of The AMP’D UP211 Podcast, host and creator Rick Bontkowski, a right below-the-knee amputee, sits down with Marcy Rubic, a leader in the nonprofit world and a passionate advocate for limb preservation. With over 25 years of experience, Marcy shares the incredible work being done at the Limb Preservation Foundation, where lives are being changed and limbs are being saved. From innovative prevention programs to the personal stories of those facing limb loss, Marcy offers a behind-the-scenes look at how her team is providing hope and healing to the limb loss community.

Join us as we explore the inspiring impact of her work and discuss the vital role organizations like the Limb Preservation Foundation play in giving individuals the chance to reclaim their mobility and dignity.

Join host and creator Rick Bontkowski, a right below-the-knee amputee, for an inspiring episode of The AMP’D UP211 Podcast—a show dedicated to empowering and uplifting the limb loss community through powerful stories of resilience and hope. Rick is passionate about breaking barriers and challenging preconceived notions about people with disabilities.

In this episode titled “Forged by Faith,” Rick sits down with Josh Reed, who shares his remarkable journey from tragedy to triumph. After a life-altering motorcycle accident led to the amputation of his leg, Josh faced immense physical and emotional challenges. Battling depression and isolation, he eventually found hope and purpose through his faith and the support of the Beautifully Flawed Foundation’s Forge Retreat.

Together, Rick and Josh delve into the depths of overcoming adversity, the transformative power of community, and how to turn pain into purpose. They discuss how setting small goals can lead to monumental achievements and the importance of having a brotherhood that lifts you up. This heartfelt conversation is a testament to resilience and a reminder that no matter the obstacle, you’re never alone in your journey.

Tune in to The AMP’D UP211 Podcast to hear two inspiring stories that prove life’s greatest challenges can forge the strongest spirits. Don’t miss this episode that promises to motivate and encourage anyone facing their own mountains to climb.

Today we have an extraordinary guest who has faced unbelievable challenges and emerged stronger than ever. Penny Fisher, a former model and now an author and motivational speaker, joins us to share her harrowing yet inspiring journey of survival and resilience.  Imagine being on a family vacation, enjoying the sunshine, and within days finding yourself in a coma with just a 10% chance of survival. Penny was struck by Toxic Shock Syndrome, a rare and life-threatening condition that led to multiple amputations and a fight for her very existence. Against all odds, she not only survived but has thrived, turning her experience into a powerful story of determination and hope.  Get ready to be moved and inspired by Penny Fisher’s incredible story of overcoming adversity, embracing a new reality, and finding joy and purpose in the face of overwhelming odds. It is our pleasure to introduce Penny Fisher!  The AMP’D UP211 Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a Right Below The Knee Amputee.

We are proud to present Caitlin Conner. Raised in a small town in central Texas, Caitlin’s life took a dramatic turn just before her 24th birthday. A motorcycle accident led to the amputation of her left leg while she was newly pregnant, but her resilience and determination have made her a beacon of hope and empowerment for many. Caitlin is not just a survivor; she’s a trailblazer. From participating in adaptive sports to founding the groundbreaking nonprofit Be More Adaptive, she’s on a mission to create a more inclusive world for individuals with disabilities. The AMP’D UP211 Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a Right Below-The-Knee Amputee.

We are proud to present Scott Odom, a true testament to the power of resilience and determination. At just 14 years old, Scott faced a life-altering challenge when he lost his leg to cancer. Despite this daunting obstacle, he refused to let it define his future. Instead, Scott channeled his passion for basketball into a remarkable career as a professional amputee athlete. In this episode, Scott shares his personal experiences from the moment he learned about his amputation, through his rigorous recovery, to his triumphant return to the basketball court. We’ll explore his transition into adaptive sports, and the profound impact of his charity called ABI, Amputee Basketball Invigorated. Scott’s story is one of overcoming adversity, achieving greatness, and giving back to the community. The AMP’D UP211 Podcast is created and hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a right below-the-knee amputee.

We are proud to present the incredible journey of Samantha Katie Eddington! Their story is one of unimaginable challenges, unbreakable bonds, and relentless determination. Katie was just a child when a tragic lawnmower accident changed her life forever, resulting in the loss of her leg. But this setback didn’t define her. Instead, it fueled her passion and determination to rise above adversity. Now, Katie is not only thriving but is also aspiring to compete in the Paralympics!  By her side every step of the way is her mother, Samantha. Not only has she been Katie’s biggest supporter, but she has also taken her commitment to the amputee community to new heights as a Board member of 50 Legs, a remarkable charity dedicated to providing prosthetics and ongoing care to those in need. Through their involvement with 50 Legs, Samantha and Katie have touched countless lives, offering hope, support, and inspiration to amputees around the world. The AMP’D UP211 Video Podcast is hosted by Rick Bontkowski, a Right Below-Knee Amputee.