Freedom Reclaimed: Earl Granville’s Journey from Combat to Community Earl Granville. True strength isn’t the leg you stand on—it’s the weight you carry for others. Photo-Joseph Kelley Photography By Rick Bontkowski As fireworks light up the sky this Fourth of July, many of us pause to reflect on freedom, what it costs, and what it means. For combat veteran and amputee Earl Granville, freedom has taken on a deeper, more personal
Jamie Gane – Living proof that purpose wins. Photo courtesy of Jamie Gane. By Rick BontkowskiAs Pride Month celebrates identity, resilience, and the right to live authentically, it’s an honor to highlight someone who embodies all three: Jamie Gane. A below-the-knee amputee, international athlete, and passionate LGBTQ+ advocate, Jamie’s story is a powerful reminder that adversity can be a launching pad for purpose. Diagnosed at age 12 with severe plantar
Redefining Beauty - Reclaiming Identity. Tina Godfrey Hurley, founder of the nonprofit “Less Leg More Heart.” By Rick BontkowskiMay is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the emotional battles often hidden behind physical ones. Few embody that intersection more powerfully than Tina Godfrey Hurley, a former Division 1 athlete, board-certified physician associate, amputee, and founder of the nonprofit Less Leg More Heart. Tina’s life shifted dramatically after she
Strength isn’t just about muscle, it’s about mindset. Cam Ayala is proof of that. By Rick Bontkowski Cam Ayala first captured public attention as a contestant on The Bachelorette, but his real story goes far beyond reality TV. Diagnosed with primary lymphedema at age 11, Cam endured years of medical complications, multiple surgeries, and ultimately, the amputation of his right leg. But rather than letting this define him, he found a
Grace, strength, and art in motion: Caitlin Conner shows us how prosthetics are redefining beauty and empowerment. By Rick BontkowskiProsthetic design has evolved far beyond its functional origins, entering the realms of fashion and art to empower amputees with creativity and self-expression. This revolution challenges stereotypes, celebrates individuality, and places amputees confidently in the spotlight. Visionaries like Sophie de Oliveira Barata, founder of The Alternative Limb Project, craft prosthetics that
Defying limits, embracing healing: Chris Prange-Morgan shows us that wellness is about finding strength in the climb and discovering freedom in every challenge. By Rick Bontkowski As we step into 2025, the start of a new year offers a fresh canvas to set goals and embrace growth. For the limb loss and limb difference community, wellness extends beyond physical health, it’s a journey of emotional, mental, and creative well-being. Setting realistic
The holiday season can be the perfect time to explore your artistic side, whether through painting, music, writing, or crafting a gift for a loved one. By Rick BontkowskiFor many, the holiday season brings a rare pause, a moment to step back from daily routines and connect with what matters most. For amputees and those with disabilities, this downtime can offer a special invitation to explore creativity, perhaps as a
Major Ed Pulido, founder of the John Daly-Major Ed Heart of a Lion Foundation. By Rick Bontkowski On The AMP’D UP211 Podcast, I had the privilege of interviewing Major Ed Pulido, a man whose story deeply resonated with me as a fellow amputee. Major Ed, a retired U.S. Army Major, survived a devastating IED explosion in Iraq that led to the loss of his leg. Hearing him share his journey of
Host Rick Bontkowski, creator of The AMP’D UP211 Podcast, connects with the limb loss community worldwide. Photographer: Brian Mackender. Rick Bontkowski never imagined that a single conversation with a friend would lead to the creation of The AMP’D UP211 Podcast, now reaching audiences in over 25 countries. As a right below-knee amputee himself, Rick’s mission is to change how people view limb loss and limb differences – one story at
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Thriving Under Pressure: Arkansas Diamonds Manager Lauren Hatten Discusses the Team’s Success and Goals By Lana Pierce Fans (and future fans) of the Arkansas Diamonds: Tune in! Arkansas’s best indoor arena football team, established in Hot Springs as the “Wiseguys” before expanding this year, the Arkansas Diamonds are bringing back the hard-hitting entertainment. The sport’s
Can you tell where this mural is located? The First person to snap a selfie in front of the same mural and text it to 501-651-0545 will receive a free drop-in class! Photo by Missy Conry & Melissa Stevens By Missy Conry & Melissa Stevens Yoga offers countless opportunities to build strength, improve flexibility, and create
Each person attending the birthday gala will receive this special commemorative coin. Hot Springs’ 150th birthday gala will be held August 11 in Horner Hall at the Hot Springs Convention Center. Funds generated by the celebration will be given to the Garland County Historical Society. “Although our city’s history goes back hundreds of years
Singer Melissa Carper. — Courtesy Visit Hot Springs Melissa Carper, the nationally acclaimed country singer with deep ties to Arkansas and a profound commitment to nature, will open the inaugural Birding Festival of the South Presented by Oaklawn Hot Springs, with a concert October 8 on Bridge Street in downtown Hot
