Shows
Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorLaunchPrepare Yourself!
Your steps backward are prepping you to be rocketed forward.
Ever feel like you are being held down, pushed backwards, not making forward progress?
I’ve been there and it can be so frustrating! Sometimes it feels like you are never going to get back to where you were or progress any further
What I have learned over these past 12 years of setbacks and surgeries, backward movement and disappointment, is that whenever I have gone through those moments, sooner or later, I am back to where I once was AN...
2024-07-1023 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorLaunchPrepare Yourself!
Your steps backward are prepping you to be rocketed forward.
Ever feel like you are being held down, pushed backwards, not making forward progress?
I’ve been there and it can be so frustrating! Sometimes it feels like you are never going to get back to where you were or progress any further
What I have learned over these past 12 years of setbacks and surgeries, backward movement and disappointment, is that whenever I have gone through those moments, sooner or later, I am back to where I once was AN...
2024-07-1023 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorCheck Your Ego At the DoorFor Growth and Overall Happiness
Take it from me when I say that it can be really difficult to drop the ego and allow yourself to be vulnerable.
I have always prided myself in being a high achiever, a perfectionist, a go-getter, and so highly competitive that I have built up walls and a tough exterior when I am trying new things or in a competitive environment. The very last thing I would ever do is ask for help or, worse yet, show any weaknesses in front of anyone.
T...
2023-09-2729 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorCheck Your Ego At the DoorFor Growth and Overall Happiness
Take it from me when I say that it can be really difficult to drop the ego and allow yourself to be vulnerable.
I have always prided myself in being a high achiever, a perfectionist, a go-getter, and so highly competitive that I have built up walls and a tough exterior when I am trying new things or in a competitive environment. The very last thing I would ever do is ask for help or, worse yet, show any weaknesses in front of anyone.
T...
2023-09-2729 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorLove Yourself….Where You’re At
Ever felt alone, even though you are surrounded by your support, your family, your friends?
As an amputee, it can be hard for anyone to really grasp what we are feeling when it comes to nerve or “phantom” pains. To explain it, doesn’t do justice, yet we can deal with it 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. I know I do.
There are many times that, even though we are surrounded by people who love us, we feel alone and having to handle pain and problems that accompany bring an ampute...
2023-06-1436 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorLove Yourself….Where You’re At
Ever felt alone, even though you are surrounded by your support, your family, your friends?
As an amputee, it can be hard for anyone to really grasp what we are feeling when it comes to nerve or “phantom” pains. To explain it, doesn’t do justice, yet we can deal with it 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. I know I do.
There are many times that, even though we are surrounded by people who love us, we feel alone and having to handle pain and problems that accompany bring an ampute...
2023-06-1436 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorProsthetic Parley with Randy and DavidLet’s Talk About Sockets
This week we begin a new series called Prosthetic Parley with Randy and David. My prosthetist will come on once every other month to discuss hot topics that you, the viewers are interested in and talking about. This week we discuss what types of sockets there are and what fit might be right for you and why.
Please keep in mind that these are the opinions of two prosthetists, whom I use and trust, but it is in their opinion. We hope that this...
2023-05-3158 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorProsthetic Parley with Randy and DavidLet’s Talk About Sockets
This week we begin a new series called Prosthetic Parley with Randy and David. My prosthetist will come on once every other month to discuss hot topics that you, the viewers are interested in and talking about. This week we discuss what types of sockets there are and what fit might be right for you and why.
Please keep in mind that these are the opinions of two prosthetists, whom I use and trust, but it is in their opinion. We hope that this...
2023-05-3158 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorBouncing Back with Coach Dar
We all have roadblocks and circumstances that come out of nowhere and try to derail our lives.
These moments, or set backs, can do one of two things to us:
They can disable us, or they can challenge us to grow.
Set backs can become set ups for the next big thing in your life!
Are you feeling stuck, frustrated, alone, or defeated? Today I am excited for you all to join in my interview with Coach Dar, a world renowned mental skills coach for many professional at...
2023-03-2959 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorBouncing Back with Coach Dar
We all have roadblocks and circumstances that come out of nowhere and try to derail our lives.
These moments, or set backs, can do one of two things to us:
They can disable us, or they can challenge us to grow.
Set backs can become set ups for the next big thing in your life!
Are you feeling stuck, frustrated, alone, or defeated? Today I am excited for you all to join in my interview with Coach Dar, a world renowned mental skills coach for many professional at...
2023-03-2959 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorRise Up!
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 t...
2023-03-2220 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorRise Up!
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 t...
2023-03-2220 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorNo ExcusesYour Mind is Your Only Limit
Your Mind is Your Only Limit
Today I’m getting ready to ski.
I’m an above knee amputee and won’t let that stop me.
I decided to amputate so I could get back to skiing with my family.
It was a choice, it was my fate, and I am embracing it.
You can decide what kind of life you have, no matter your circumstances. You can roll over and succumb to it or you can rise up and live the best life possible.
This is a min...
2023-03-1526 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorNo ExcusesYour Mind is Your Only Limit
Your Mind is Your Only Limit
Today I’m getting ready to ski.
I’m an above knee amputee and won’t let that stop me.
I decided to amputate so I could get back to skiing with my family.
It was a choice, it was my fate, and I am embracing it.
You can decide what kind of life you have, no matter your circumstances. You can roll over and succumb to it or you can rise up and live the best life possible.
This is a min...
2023-03-1526 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorWhat’s Your Vibe?Serve and Be Served
What we put out into the world is what we get back.
Have you ever noticed people who seem to have it all together, are happy, productive, and have good things happen to them?
…have you ever REALLY looked at them? Ever notice their attitude?
Even though no one goes without troubles and hard knocks, in life, these people keep their chin up, hunker down and weather the storms because of how they perceive their life and circumstances.
They are warriors!
YOU are that warrior, too, whether you believe it or...
2022-11-3022 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorWhat’s Your Vibe?Serve and Be Served
What we put out into the world is what we get back.
Have you ever noticed people who seem to have it all together, are happy, productive, and have good things happen to them?
…have you ever REALLY looked at them? Ever notice their attitude?
Even though no one goes without troubles and hard knocks, in life, these people keep their chin up, hunker down and weather the storms because of how they perceive their life and circumstances.
They are warriors!
YOU are that warrior, too, whether you believe it or...
2022-11-3022 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorYou’ve Got to Fight for Your Right….To Party.. I mean, for Medical Insurance
Sorry, I had the Beastie Boys song stuck in my head. But, for real, do what they say and FIGHT for your rights!!!! They know what’s up!
The Beastie Boys had it right when they sang, “You’ve got to fight, for your right to party” however I’d say you should also fight for your right to having appropriate medical coverage, and for us amputees, the right to mobility.
As if becoming an amputee is an easy adjustment, mentally, emotionally or physically, we should not...
2022-11-0941 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorYou’ve Got to Fight for Your Right….To Party.. I mean, for Medical Insurance
Sorry, I had the Beastie Boys song stuck in my head. But, for real, do what they say and FIGHT for your rights!!!! They know what’s up!
The Beastie Boys had it right when they sang, “You’ve got to fight, for your right to party” however I’d say you should also fight for your right to having appropriate medical coverage, and for us amputees, the right to mobility.
As if becoming an amputee is an easy adjustment, mentally, emotionally or physically, we should not...
2022-11-0941 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorDream A Little DreamMaking Your Dreams Become Reality
If you can dream it, you can do it.
We’ve all heard that saying before and maybe even been told that by someone trying to cheer you on. It’s true, to an extent. Dreams become reality when we have the vision to imagine them, and the mental and physical strength to follow through to accomplish them. Dreams aren’t easy to accomplish, but they are attainable with the right tools to get you from point A to point B.
Once I knew I...
2022-09-2243 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorPMAPositive Mental Attitude for a Better Life
Join me today on the road in Las Vegas as I discuss how our attitude can make or break our day to day lives and ultimately leads to our feelings of success or failure.
This past week I met someone who was struggling with their quality of life and wanting more. We discussed PMA and I talked about how goal setting and how surrounding myself with good people, who wish to see me succeed, has been key to the successes I have reached since becoming an amputee.
I truly...
2022-09-1425 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorPMAPositive Mental Attitude for a Better Life
Join me today on the road in Las Vegas as I discuss how our attitude can make or break our day to day lives and ultimately leads to our feelings of success or failure.
This past week I met someone who was struggling with their quality of life and wanting more. We discussed PMA and I talked about how goal setting and how surrounding myself with good people, who wish to see me succeed, has been key to the successes I have reached since becoming an amputee.
I truly...
2022-09-1425 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorThe Nerve of Some People!Extreme Nerve Pain aka Phantom Pain
Oh, it’s real alright!! I experienced 3 days and nights of non-stop STABBING pain.
It’s MASSIVE pain, no way to control it, mentally exhausting and disabling pain like no other! It attacks when you least expect it and can make itself at home for days, or weeks on end. I am not talking about what I feel everyday-yes, I said “everyday”. Everyday, I feel my missing foot. I feel pins and needles all day long and into the night, until my body shu...
2022-09-0835 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorThe Nerve of Some People!Extreme Nerve Pain aka Phantom Pain
Oh, it’s real alright!! I experienced 3 days and nights of non-stop STABBING pain.
It’s MASSIVE pain, no way to control it, mentally exhausting and disabling pain like no other! It attacks when you least expect it and can make itself at home for days, or weeks on end. I am not talking about what I feel everyday-yes, I said “everyday”. Everyday, I feel my missing foot. I feel pins and needles all day long and into the night, until my body shu...
2022-09-0835 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorI’m BACK!!!What Happens When It’s YOUR Decision??
Hi there! Remember me?😉
I’m back from a much-needed break and ready to bring you some amazing episodes! Won’t you join me by subscribing to my website, podcasts, or YouTube channel??
Here we are 3 1/2 years after my ELECTED amputation and I had someone ask me, “How hard was it for you to decide to amputate? Because I’m about there, myself, and I’m scared.”
The morning after my amputation
Active, healthy me, living a life I love.
2022-08-3130 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorPlanes, Trains, and AutomobilesTraveling, and Enjoying It, Despite Your Circumstance
I’m back after a much needed 3-week break. Traveling is so much fun but can be really hard when you’re dealing with a “disability”. I’m going to take you through my vacation, what I packed, how I adapted, and the pitfalls- because of course, there are always a few. If you’re planning on traveling anytime soon or you wished you could travel but you think it’ll be too hard in your circumstance listen in today and hopefully you’ll feel ready to tackle that va...
2022-07-2143 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorWhat Motivates You?
What gets you moving in the morning? What lights a fire under you? What keeps you moving forward when you feel like giving up?
Our mindset and goal setting allows us to find success. They give us the direction and purpose we need to press forward and reach levels of success that might not have been possible otherwise.
I make sure that I have a clear image in my head of what the next day will look like, before I go to bed. I have a to-do list of things I need to...
2022-06-3041 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorParty For 1.Pity Party For 1, That Is.
Yep, it happens to us all and this past Monday I got myself into that mindset.
However, looking back now, and even that evening, I realized how lucky I am for all the good in my life. Then I had a good laugh at myself and moved on.
You could say that character building happened that day for me and I wanted to share with you what can happen in my life to show you that we all struggle. No one is exempt from struggles. No one is...
2022-06-2244 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorMaking It CountRising to a Challenge and Facing Your Fears
You just never know what’s on the other side of fear. But I can tell you, from experience, that I have never regretted a moment that I have taken the chance and faced a fear. I feel empowered and alive! I feel like I could do anything I set my mind to, and it doesn’t matter if I succeed or fail, what matters is that I try.
This past week I tried something new, as an amputee: waterskiing! I haven...
2022-06-0830 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorEmbrace the Moments
The past few weeks have been quite a ride and then just 2 days ago I realized we, as a family, were about to close another chapter in our lives.
Change happens. Life keeps moving forward, even when we are not ready, even if we don’t want it to. It is inevitable.
We as humans don’t really embrace change well, it takes some getting used to but, it is what helps us grow. When we are forced out of our comfort zone, a place we’ve become accustomed to, we can fee...
2022-05-1841 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorWhat’s Your Story with Christy Gardner US Army Veteran, USA Sled Hockey Teammate, Therapy Dog Trainer, Special Olympics Coach, Bilateral Below Knee Amputee
Christy does it all! She is amazing, inspiring, and constantly pushing her limits to see what is possible!
As I wrap up my interviews for Limb Loss/Limb Difference Awareness month (April), I have to say I am renewed, Inspired, and ready to take on the world!
Christy was planning on serving our country for the maximum number of years, until one fateful day she was hit by a local strike in an undisclosed a...
2022-05-111h 02Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorWhat’s Your Story with Christy Gardner US Army Veteran, USA Sled Hockey Teammate, Therapy Dog Trainer, Special Olympics Coach, Bilateral Below Knee Amputee
Christy does it all! She is amazing, inspiring, and constantly pushing her limits to see what is possible!
As I wrap up my interviews for Limb Loss/Limb Difference Awareness month (April), I have to say I am renewed, Inspired, and ready to take on the world!
Christy was planning on serving our country for the maximum number of years, until one fateful day she was hit by a local strike in an undisclosed a...
2022-05-111h 02Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorMaking a Difference- ROMP GlobalRange of Motion Project Global
What an amazing group of people creating opportunities for amputees who might never had the chance to enjoy freedom and independence that mobility brings.
Range of Motion Project Global is changing lives, one prosthetic at a time. I have had the honor of helping them fundraise and getting mobile for their cause the past 2 years as an amputee, because I know how my prosthetic has changed my life for the better.
I feel complete and know that I can do anything I put my mind to...
2022-05-041h 04Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorMaking a Difference- ROMP GlobalRange of Motion Project Global
What an amazing group of people creating opportunities for amputees who might never had the chance to enjoy freedom and independence that mobility brings.
Range of Motion Project Global is changing lives, one prosthetic at a time. I have had the honor of helping them fundraise and getting mobile for their cause the past 2 years as an amputee, because I know how my prosthetic has changed my life for the better.
I feel complete and know that I can do anything I put my mind to...
2022-05-041h 04Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorWhat’s Your Story with Noah Elliott
2x Paralympic Medalist, Father, and Cancer Survivor-Noah Elliott
Wow! Do you need some inspiration? Make sure you listen in today! Noah Elliott shares the journey he has been on since the age of 15, and how he went from becoming a teen father to cancer diagnoses to 2x Olympic medalist! I mean, WOW!!!
2022 Winter Olympics
Noah doing what he does!
Doing what he loves and his personality shines through the heaviest of winter clothing!😎
I am honored to call him a friend...
2022-04-271h 04Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorWhat’s Your Story with Noah Elliott
2x Paralympic Medalist, Father, and Cancer Survivor-Noah Elliott
Wow! Do you need some inspiration? Make sure you listen in today! Noah Elliott shares the journey he has been on since the age of 15, and how he went from becoming a teen father to cancer diagnoses to 2x Olympic medalist! I mean, WOW!!!
2022 Winter Olympics
Noah doing what he does!
Doing what he loves and his personality shines through the heaviest of winter clothing!😎
I am honored to call him a friend...
2022-04-271h 04Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorWhat’s Your Story with Dani Aravich
Come join us as we hear Dani tell her story. Born without a forearm and hand Dani’s parents, although not expecting that, showed her that she could do anything and be anything she put her mind to.
Dani had always been into sports and her dream job is to be a GM to an NFL football team. She went off to college, got her degree in business and started working for the Indianapolis Colts and Pacer organizations, which led to, what she thought, was her dream job working for the Utah Jazz, however she gre...
2022-04-2051 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorWhat’s Your Story with Dani Aravich
Come join us as we hear Dani tell her story. Born without a forearm and hand Dani’s parents, although not expecting that, showed her that she could do anything and be anything she put her mind to.
Dani had always been into sports and her dream job is to be a GM to an NFL football team. She went off to college, got her degree in business and started working for the Indianapolis Colts and Pacer organizations, which led to, what she thought, was her dream job working for the Utah Jazz, however she gre...
2022-04-2051 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorWhat’s Your Story with Roni Sasaki
Born with limb difference but having the drive and determination to become something more than her “disability”. Being told she may never walk and having the will to prove everyone wrong.
Daring to dream big and pushing the boundaries of being an athlete with limb difference comes the story of Roni Sasaki, Gold medalist in Alpine Skiing, author, speaker, and entrepreneur. This lady has accomplished a lot, but it was a rough road as a child with limb difference.
Listen in as Roni tells us what it was like to look differ...
2022-04-1353 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorWhat’s Your Story with Roni Sasaki
Born with limb difference but having the drive and determination to become something more than her “disability”. Being told she may never walk and having the will to prove everyone wrong.
Daring to dream big and pushing the boundaries of being an athlete with limb difference comes the story of Roni Sasaki, Gold medalist in Alpine Skiing, author, speaker, and entrepreneur. This lady has accomplished a lot, but it was a rough road as a child with limb difference.
Listen in as Roni tells us what it was like to look differ...
2022-04-1353 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorTell Me Your Story: Andrew HauserAndrew Hauser: Athletic Trainer/Strength Coach to the MLB and NFL players
I am so excited to share amazing stories all month, interviewing people from all over, who have gone through losing a limb or have limb difference, and letting them share their story and how they have risen from and conquered the challenges in their lives.
This week’s interview is with Andrew Hauser, athletic trainer/strength coach in the MLB and with NFL players, who lost his leg in a scary and tragic accident at 18 years old. He was a baseball pla...
2022-04-061h 00Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorTell Me Your Story: Andrew HauserAndrew Hauser: Athletic Trainer/Strength Coach to the MLB and NFL players
I am so excited to share amazing stories all month, interviewing people from all over, who have gone through losing a limb or have limb difference, and letting them share their story and how they have risen from and conquered the challenges in their lives.
This week’s interview is with Andrew Hauser, athletic trainer/strength coach in the MLB and with NFL players, who lost his leg in a scary and tragic accident at 18 years old. He was a baseball pla...
2022-04-061h 00Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorA Day in the LifeLet’s Take a Peek
Hi! My name is Angie and I am an above knee amputee and a skin fit socket wearer.
There are many struggles you might first think about when you see an amputee, the most obvious is walking (if they are a leg amputee), but there are so many daily, little (and big) struggles that you might never know about unless you are an amputee.
Did you know that most of us don’t shower with our leg on? Just getting in and out of a shower is a...
2022-03-3052 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorA Day in the LifeLet’s Take a Peek
Hi! My name is Angie and I am an above knee amputee and a skin fit socket wearer.
There are many struggles you might first think about when you see an amputee, the most obvious is walking (if they are a leg amputee), but there are so many daily, little (and big) struggles that you might never know about unless you are an amputee.
Did you know that most of us don’t shower with our leg on? Just getting in and out of a shower is a...
2022-03-3052 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorPeter Pan Said It Best
“To live will be an awfully big adventure.” -Peter Pan
And to live well, is even better.
Sometimes it might feel like the world is coming down all around you and you can barely breathe. We can get so wrapped up in our own journey, or life, that we forget that there are others out there hurting and dealing with their own struggles. There are people who don’t know if they can make it one more day, are in so much pain, or ready to give up because they feel alone and unseen.
2022-03-2324 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorSomebody’s Watching Me….. And They’re Watching You, Too.
I know, that sounds creepy but it’s not what you think. Did you know that you influence and impact more people daily than you realize?
As a parent I knew right away that my boys were watching me, my every move, even when it appeared that they were enthralled in a movie, game, or activity! They’d say something, or repeat me, or act the way I did. Wow! What an eye opener that was for me as a mom. Now as an amputee I am realizing...
2022-03-1628 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorPerseverance to ProgressClimbing That Hill Yet Again!
Want to be back on top? Then start now!
No better time than the present.
Life is a journey, one meant to be enjoyed, but of course, not all parts of our journey are enjoyable. When we feel down on our luck, when we are hurting, or when things aren’t going our way, we find very little to enjoy. But don’t fret. That IS part of the journey, those moments are meant to help us, teach us about ourselves, and help us grow, build character and copi...
2022-03-1038 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorRise to the ChallengeIn a Sink or Swim World, Become a Gold Medalist in the Breaststroke
Each one of us struggles at one time or another. No one goes through life without challenges, even those who look like they have it “all together”, don’t go unscathed, they have just figured it out how to swim. They tackle the situation, use positivity, and keep pushing forward until they make it through the other side of pain and tribulation. Through our challenges we are given the chance to grow and find ourselves. We build character and an apprecia...
2022-03-0238 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorRise to the ChallengeIn a Sink or Swim World, Become a Gold Medalist in the Breaststroke
Each one of us struggles at one time or another. No one goes through life without challenges, even those who look like they have it “all together”, don’t go unscathed, they have just figured it out how to swim. They tackle the situation, use positivity, and keep pushing forward until they make it through the other side of pain and tribulation. Through our challenges we are given the chance to grow and find ourselves. We build character and an apprecia...
2022-03-0238 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorFear
Everything you want in life is on the other side of fear. To be able to accomplish those goals you will have to face those things that scare you or stand down and not accomplish them. The choice is yours, every single time.
You may have also heard the saying that fear can either represent:
Forget Everything And Run
or
Face Everything And Rise
I understand fear, and the chance that I may not succeed. The fear of failure, or looking “stupid” trying and failing, is real...
2022-02-2442 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorHit the Pause Button
Now is the time. You deserve it and you probably need it, too. It’s time to slow down, breathe, and enjoy your life.
If you can spare 5-10 minutes each day to stop what’s on your schedule, slow yourself down, and put aside your to-do list you can reap the benefits. Set down your phone, eliminate distractions, and make time for YOU!
It’s not always easy to find the time, I get it, but start small and build on it.
I feel like I spend all day working on this...
2022-02-1033 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorJust Breathe!Create Positive Change One Breathe at a Time
Things may not be the way you want them right now, but you can do a lot with what you do have and where you are at.
Just breathe!
I’m going to keep this week’s post short and simple.
Learning to breathe the RIGHT way is so important for your body and mind. Diaphragmatic Breathing is when you allow long, deep breaths to come in and out of your diaphragm, not from your chest.
To illust...
2022-01-2733 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorUnleash Your Inner Warrior
The time is now! Let’s find the warrior within you. Let’s dig deep and create the life you have always wanted to have.
After all that I went through these past several years with all the “down time” I had while I was healing from surgery after surgery, I realized that my life was shifting and changing, and I felt that God was giving me a new path and my future had so many possibilities.
My family had been there for me through so much, I learned a lot about myself through...
2022-01-2136 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorJust Say No…To New Year’s Resolutions….
…and YES to a new, healthier lifestyle.
Welcome back to my podcast and the start of season 2!!! I am beyond grateful for you!
If you are new to my site and haven’t been following me then you can go back and listen to my first season here or, better yet, subscribe to my podcast on Apple, iHeart, Spotify, or any other site you see below so you never miss an episode!
This week I am back after a 3 week hiatus from the holid...
2022-01-1448 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorSpreading Holiday CheerJust a quick podcast today as I am getting ready for the upcoming holiday season. Life is moving at warp speed and even the tiniest of kindnesses seem to get lost in our hurried lives. Stop, relax, look around you, and remember what this time of year is all about.
My 1st Christmas as an amputee
Smile! Bring joy into people’s lives by simply spreading joy, with a free smile.
Patience. Patience allows us to breathe and take stock in the moment before we react...
2021-12-1638 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorFinding Comfort in RoutineCreating Positive Habits to Live a Healthy Life
The holidays are upon us and the hustle and bustle can really bring us down and out of our routine and comfort zone.
I don’t know about you but when I think about the holidays I think about all the goodies, baked goods, alcohol and dinners out that will be happening with friends and family. Then I think how this happens every year and by January I hate how I feel. I have created bad habits, I’m not working out or getting exercise like I...
2021-12-0845 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorFluid, Flexible, but FerociousManaging Expectations
Sometimes we just feel like nothing is going right, we can get down on ourselves, or worse, OTHERS, because of what we are going through. When we expect certain things to go a certain way we can be setting ourselves up for a let down of epic proportions. I’m not saying you shouldn’t strive for your best, or to set those types of expectations/goals for yourselves. You should always work at achieving something greater than where you are at now, for example, if you want to walk to your mailbox, with you...
2021-12-0331 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorGratefulnessA Grateful Heart Leads to a Happy Heart
It really has to be said that where our minds go, our hearts go, too. If you are stuck in a bad way, and can’t seem to find happiness or joy in your life then check your thoughts. How do you speak to yourself? How do you speak to others?
Everyone goes through trials, that’s just life. The way each of us deals with those trials, those valleys in our lives, determines how we come through them. I chose to amputate, and I choose t...
2021-11-2437 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorGiving the Gift of ActivityStaying Active Through the Hard times…and Making it FUN!
Me out hiking on a “good” day….
However, you may ask, “How about those bad days, Angie? How do you stay active and in a good place when you’re struggling?”
I have found ways to alleviate the pain I feel in a socket that’s not fitting properly (which happens every few months, the first couple of years after becoming an amputee, as your limb changes) or if I’m just bruised and sore from a hard workout the day before. I like to h...
2021-11-1732 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorGiving the Gift of ActivityStaying Active Through the Hard times…and Making it FUN!
Me out hiking on a “good” day….
However, you may ask, “How about those bad days, Angie? How do you stay active and in a good place when you’re struggling?”
I have found ways to alleviate the pain I feel in a socket that’s not fitting properly (which happens every few months, the first couple of years after becoming an amputee, as your limb changes) or if I’m just bruised and sore from a hard workout the day before. I like to h...
2021-11-1732 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorPositivityPositive mindset is your friend!
We all face struggles in life. Some people it’s more obvious than with others but no one goes through life unscathed. It’s how we deal with those struggles that define us and give us the opportunities to live a great life or struggle to make ends meet.
Which are you? Are you making the most of your life or struggling to move past your circumstances?
Our mindset is a powerful tool that allows us to cope, deal with, and eventually rise back up again when...
2021-11-1039 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorPositivityPositive mindset is your friend!
We all face struggles in life. Some people it’s more obvious than with others but no one goes through life unscathed. It’s how we deal with those struggles that define us and give us the opportunities to live a great life or struggle to make ends meet.
Which are you? Are you making the most of your life or struggling to move past your circumstances?
Our mindset is a powerful tool that allows us to cope, deal with, and eventually rise back up again when...
2021-11-1039 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorBaby Steps
What’s holding you back from achieving your goals?
What fears are keeping you from living your best life?
Today I talk about creating baby steps to reaching the goals you have and how I faced a fear of my own yesterday. Baby steps to reaching your goals are still steps toward your goals. They need to be celebrated and you should feel great when you do accomplish them. So much of my past few years you’ve seen me do big things: skiing, surfing, hiking large mountains, but sometimes it’s the s...
2021-11-0332 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorPushing Past the PainBe Strong! You Can Get Through This!
Pain is a tricky thing. Each of us experiences pain multiple times in life. It comes and goes. It happens when we have an accident, when we’ve had surgery, and sometimes it is invisible to the people around us. It is always very real to the person dealing with it. Pain is different for each of us, too. Some of us have a low tolerance for pain while others may not even register it- I have a friend whose son fractured a bone in his foot and the p...
2021-10-2741 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorTry!“Nana korobi, ya oki”-Japanese proverb
Translation- “Fall down seven times, get up eight.”
Are you struggling with getting up and getting active? Are you afraid to fail? To fall?
It happens. If you decide to try something new then be prepared to fail, and fail again, until you finally succeed. It takes trials and errors to make the necessary adjustments, in anything you do, to finally see success. If you didn’t fail when trying something new then you didn’t learn anything and didn’t set your goal high enough.
A goal should be...
2021-10-2134 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorIf the Shoe FitsWhat You Wear Makes a Difference
Did you know that as an amputee the type of shoe we wear can make all the difference in our performance and outcome of wearing a prosthetic? When I was learning to walk for the first time I needed a shoe that was stable and would help me be more balanced. Now, 2 1/2 years later, I need a shoe that is rugged and can take me to mountain tops.
Depending on your newness of being an amputee and your level, or desired level, of activity, the shoe you wear can help y...
2021-10-1433 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorGoalsSet ‘Em, and Slam Dunk ‘Em!
No better time than the present! It doesn’t need to be a Monday or the first of the month or, even worse, January 1st to set and achieve any goal you set for yourself. Now is the time to get started on the path you want and desire for yourself. What do you want from your life? Do you want to be healthier? Eat better? Quit smoking/drinking? Get moving and exercise daily? Are you, like me, trying to walk better and more smoothly in your prosthetic or use your...
2021-10-0740 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorRock Bottom Isn’t Really Rock BottomFinding Joy in the Hard Moments
My joy and why I do what I do.
So not everyday is roses. It may seem like that if you check out some people’s social media. Don’t buy it! We all struggle, and we all go through valleys. I’m smiling in the photo above because I am surrounded by the people I love, doing something we love- together. Today, however, as I put on my prosthetic, I realized it didn’t feel right. As I started walking on it I was noticing that I was already hittin...
2021-09-2942 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorWhat is Your Why?What drives you forward when you hit hard times?
When days get hard we look to find purpose, I think that’s human nature. Somedays we fall short of finding what gets us up and motivated. Today, after a very hard hike in the heat and my prosthetic rubbing my leg raw, I pushed myself to a point that I wasn’t sure I’d make it back to the car but when I did, I sat there and looked at my husband and right then, in midst of my pain and exhau...
2021-09-2332 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorGet a GripDealing with Phantom Pains, Part 2
As a continuation to last week’s podcast on Phantom Pain, and how my faith has helped me through, I thought I would add in other ways you can try to deal with these inevitable pains we go through, as amputees.
If you experience phantom pains you know how unpleasant and downright horrible they can be. They can mess with your head, bring you down, and keep you from sleep. They don’t discriminate, and if you’ve never had them, be forewarned, you could still have them rear up...
2021-09-1744 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorAbracadabraPhantoms and Serving Others: How do they fit together?
Ok, so maybe it’s not THAT easy to rid yourself of phantom pains, but it does help.
SERVING.
When we distract our minds then we can free ourselves, even temporarily, from pain. So why not help others while you help yourself? I can’t think of anything better than serving where I’m needed, helping someone else out, while I get an opportunity to keep so busy that I don’t think about my own problems.
2021-09-1333 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorWhen The Going Gets ToughHow do you deal when hard times come a knockin’?
Do you throw your hands up in defeat or do you reach deep down and find the strength to carry on?
Do you belittle yourself into an out of control spin or do you use words of affirmation and pull yourself up by the bootstraps?
I have been realizing, of late, that I am struggling with motivation. I think the move did me in and I’m still recuperating from the physical battles I had to overcome with p...
2021-08-2541 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorShop Talk with Randy WestHow about that fit, though?
Randy, my prosthetist, with the cast of my residual limb
This is the first step, for some prosthetists, when it comes to making their patient’s next socket. There are many steps, and it can be frustrating with how long it can take, only to realize you may need to make a bunch of corrections to the final socket over the course of the following weeks of receiving it. It is a process, like everything in life, and can test your resolve and patience. But stay the course, my fri...
2021-08-1854 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorYou Don’t Know What You Have Until It’s Gone
I love my leg, what can I say. But it’s a love/hate relationship the first week of having a new socket put on. Like a new pair of shoes that need to broken in before you run a marathon, a new socket- even made perfectly for your limb- has it’s own personality that you need to get use to. It will hit your thigh differently, rub your groin raw, bump the end of your limb til it bruises, and then…. after some perseverance, patience and a glass of wine (or two), you hit your stride...
2021-08-1244 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorFit As A Fiddle-Ha!Prosthetics 101-Part 2 Fitting
Getting my fitting checked with Randy. (@limbmaster)
No matter how many questions I asked and how many people I talked to prior to amputation, no one can help you understand the things you don’t even know to ask in the first place…. for example, I knew it would take time, about 2 years, for my residual limb to shrink, change, and mature. What I didn’t know was that what I ate the day before may make my socket not fit the next morning, or that losing weight and gaining weight c...
2021-08-0443 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorProsthetics 101: Part 1In the beginning….
This is me, with Randy West, in my first prosthetic and 50 lbs heavier! Yikes!!
This picture is hard for me to look at. I had been through years of surgeries and being laid up. I wasn’t active at all because I couldn’t. I was either in surgery, elevating my knee from surgery, in PT, or in just too much pain. Sadly, my mental game took as big of a hit as my physical game. I was starting to worry that my physical health was going to continue to decline...
2021-07-2953 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorThe Journey Called LifeHave Grace With Yourself Through Life’s Ups and Downs
The valleys in life allow us to see the beauty of the mountain tops
Moving has been the focus of my every moment this past 3-4 weeks and it has been exhausting. I have pushed myself to the max to get things unpacked and to make our new house look like a home. I have rubbed my residual limb raw, created some serious pains that have taken my breathe away, and made my “good leg” ache with all the work it has done to comp...
2021-07-1545 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorI’m Back and All Moved In!Moving is Tough Work!
Even my dog is exhausted!!
I am BACK!!! I have missed being here and recording my podcast. So sorry for the temporary interruption in the broadcast but my family has been in the midst of a big move! I never thought we’d leave the amazing house we had but times change and new chapters begin.
Our old house held so many memories for me and my family with family visiting, college students spending weekends, our Chocolate lab passing away during the pandemic, to years of homeschooling. So...
2021-07-0829 min
A Leg Up On Life#44 Angie HeuserAngie Heuser injured her knee during a Taekwondo belt test. Her routine MCL tear led to numerous surgeries and crippling pain. Her knee refused to heal, and after years of medical procedures, Angie realized that her life had become severely impaired by her limitations. She chose to have the leg amputated so that she could regain mobility and reclaim her life. Angie is the host of Be-You-Tiful Adaptive Warrior podcast, where she inspires, educates, and empowers others to live powerful lives as warriors.
2021-06-2839 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorTo Move or Not To MoveChanging Our Environment To Aid in Self-Preservation
We’re moving!!
It’s so real now!!! No turning back!
The end of another chapter. 😢
Well, this is it! I have been not been able to discuss this until now. As of 2 days ago we are officially new home owners, and of a ranch home. No more stairs for this amputee!! Laundry on the same level as my bedroom! Woo hoo! I am not writing a lot here this week as I am currently standing in my new home, no furnitu...
2021-06-1724 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorTo Move or Not To MoveChanging Our Environment To Aid in Self-Preservation
We’re moving!!
It’s so real now!!! No turning back!
The end of another chapter. 😢
Well, this is it! I have been not been able to discuss this until now. As of 2 days ago we are officially new home owners, and of a ranch home. No more stairs for this amputee!! Laundry on the same level as my bedroom! Woo hoo! I am not writing a lot here this week as I am currently standing in my new home, no furnitu...
2021-06-1724 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorRise To The ChallengeRun The Race Set Before You
It’s time to get off that couch and put your leg on. Let’s do this! If not today, then when?
I will tell you that the amputation wasn’t the end of a journey but the very beginning of another. Life is a journey so I don’t know why I thought any different with amputation. Now the real work comes in. You need to heal, and then get your socket fitted and THEN learn to walk all over again! No one can truly prep...
2021-06-1038 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorEnjoy the JourneyTraveling Home Once Again
Me and Dad traveling back to Chicago after his stay with us.
Coming in for a landing, Chitown.
City lights, oh how I’ve missed you!
O’Hare Airport doing it up right! Love this airport.
God Bless America and the Veterans who fought for our freedom.
I am HOME! Chicago will always be my home, no matter how long we may be apart. Every year my family travels back to Chicago, where most of our family lives, fo...
2021-06-0324 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorTraveling Once Again-Tips and Tricks for Traveling…and ROMP: Helping Others Gain Freedom of Mobility One Prosthetic at a Time
This is me, July 2020 climbing Mt. Humphreys in Flagstaff, AZ. My highest and most challenging terrain thus far.
I did this for ROMP’s #We Still Climb campaign.
OK all, I am here to tell you that if you haven’t heard of ROMP: Range of Motion Project Global yet you need to check them out!! Do you feel the need to give back, or help others? Do you want to get in shape for yourself but need motivation? Then th...
2021-05-2636 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorI Am Who You Say I AmHow My Faith Saved Me and Made Me Who I Am Today…..
HIS!
Faith: the assurance of what is hoped for, with the conviction of what is unseen.
This podcast goes deep as I share the other half of my story, the side of my story that I have only just recently shared with people outside my circle. This story that gives you a glimpse into my Faith and belief system that has been in place all my life but really grounded me the most the past several years…. especially the months...
2021-05-1951 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorSupport is a 2-Way Street
My support team through it all
My Support group
This family!! I have been so blessed by each one of them!
The people you surround yourself with is a very important component to your success, I’d say it’s number 2 just behind your ATTITTUDE and MINDSET.
Surround yourself with people who know you, can support you physically and emotionally, and know when to give and when to step back. Communicate with them, let them know exactly what you need so help is relevant and helpful.
Likewis...
2021-05-1234 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorStarting PointAgain, and Again, and Again…..
Starting Line to my 1st race as an amputee, and as a St Jude Hero.
If someone asked you where your life began, or where you started out, you might answer, when you were born. Others may answer where they started their career or life as an adult, when they had to be responsible for themselves and maybe a spouse or significant other.
For me, my starting point is always changing, and comes around…OFTEN!
Of course we all start life at birth, then we gr...
2021-05-0555 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorThe Nerve of Some PeoplePlastic Surgeons and TMR Surgery:
Tackling Phantom Limb Pain
Everyone deals with pain at some point in their life, but when you have an amputation you know that there is a possibility of living with a pain you can’t even touch! When the missing limb is burning, itching, throbbing, or sending sharp pains with every movement it can be unnerving -pun intended- and hard to get past.
I, like so many other amputees, have dealt with phantom limb pain since day one. Most of the time I can handle it...
2021-04-281h 04Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorHead, Shoulders,…..Knees? and….Toes?Physical Therapy After Amputation is Vitally Important to Your Success as an Amputee
My Tribe
Everyone needs a tribe. A group of people who are there for you, care about you, make you laugh when you want to cry and support all of your crazy ideas. These are my people and I am so fortunate to have each and everyone of them in my life. Some of them have been in my life since I was a teenager (my husband), others for the last few years, and others have been my medical team that have hel...
2021-04-211h 07Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorOne Size Doesn't Fit AllNot All Sockets (or Prosthetists) Are Made the Same
Randy West, myself, and David Banks
I consider myself so fortunate to have been directed to The Limb Center by my doctor, Dr. Judd Cummings, as I was planning for my amputation. And I think I am a good judge of character, so when I went in to meet Randy West and David Banks for the first time, pre-amputation, I knew I was getting the best care out there!
Fitting my running blade and trying it out for the first time
...
2021-04-1457 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorIs Amputation Right For You?Advocating For Yourself When You Reach That Moment
-My First steps as an amputee
-This was pure joy: a new life had been opened up to me
-The possibilities were endless
-My amazing nurses that saw me through
several days of recovery
-This was just before being discharged
-Excitement mixed with nerves
-Dr Judd Cummings, my amazing orthopedic surgeon
That moment had come, in my mind. I had done everything to make my knee work the way it was suppose to. I spent years i...
2021-04-0757 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorFacing Fears, Overcoming Obstacles: What's Holding You Back?What’s Holding You Back?What if I told you that you can overcome your fears. What if I told you that you could rise above your circumstances and that they do NOT define you?
You need to hear Mike’s story, but not just what happened to him, listen to how he speaks about it. Listen to his message of the hope, and how he looked toward his future and NOT his past. Hear his heart and about the faith he had that this was all part of a bigger plan. We could all learn a thin...
2021-03-311h 11Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorBeing Comfortable With Being UncomfortableUsing Fear to Grow and Overcome Obstacles
What holds you back from accomplishing your goals, your dreams?
What stops you from moving forward, creating anxiety within you?
If you are crippled by fear and can’t seem to move forward in pursuing your goals just know you are not alone. Everyone has some sort of fear: fear of failure, fear of acceptance, fear of being alone or in pain. The issue is never about whether you have a fear or not, it’s about how much it controls your life.
I u...
2021-03-2443 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorA Vision of HopeCreating a vision board when times get toughLife is a journey. Embrace it.
It has ups and downs. Be prepared for it.
“Fall Down Seven Times, Stand Up Eight”-Chinese Proverb
You are not alone in these two certain facts but we need to be able to cope and heal and thrive when times get hard. That’s when your mental and emotional game need to prove their worth. Like strength training, or the runner training for a marathon, learning to cope with adversity is something you need to prepare for and train for. T...
2021-03-1732 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorEmpowered, Active Lifestyle with LevitateAbout 2 weeks ago I reached out to Levitate on Instagram searching for someone who appeared to have mastered using a running blade. I had been out of my blade for over a year between socket adjustments, nerve pain and surgery. I was ready to try again now that the stars had all aligned but I knew that I need some tips and tricks to start moving again.
Enter Levitate.
I reached out to them in a DM on Instagram and they wrote back with 30 minutes! I just asked if they had some wisdom on getting...
2021-03-1051 min
Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorEmbracing VulnerabilityWow! What an experience I had! To think that I felt totally at peace and right with my amputation, yet coming to terms with it, through a horse, and finding that I had some deeper fears that I wasn’t allowing myself to show-like it was a sign of weakness instead of courage! It was such a profound moment for me, one that I won’t be forgetting any time soon.
I am in awe of the grace and yet strength and connectiveness of horses to the people around them. It’s like they have a 6th sense...
2021-03-0334 min
Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorNever Quit, Never SurrenderNo matter what I went through those 3+ years prior to amputation, Dr. Shaun Palmer never gave up on me or my hope…nor did I! I was going to walk again! I was going to get better, whatever it took! In this episode I chat with my PT that I saw from my knee revision surgery through amputation. You’ll get to hear his side of my journey and how he adapted my therapy to fit where I was physically and mentally. I want to show you what is possible when you advocate for yourself in the medical world, and...
2021-02-2444 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorNever Quit, Never SurrenderNo matter what I went through those 3+ years prior to amputation, Dr. Shaun Palmer never gave up on me or my hope…nor did I! I was going to walk again! I was going to get better, whatever it took! In this episode I chat with my PT that I saw from my knee revision surgery through amputation. You’ll get to hear his side of my journey and how he adapted my therapy to fit where I was physically and mentally. I want to show you what is possible when you advocate for yourself in the medical world, and...
2021-02-2444 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorStarfish Arms and Lizard Tails
It won’t grow back so it’s time to change your thinking!
The road I’ve taken to get where I am and to be the person you see here has been long and filled with bumps and bruises along the way. I got knocked down-over and over again but I chose to get back up. Today, I share my journey with you for the first time. From injury to amputation, this is my personal story.
To be transparent is to show the world your weakest side, your weakest moments in hopes of ins...
2021-02-1845 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorThis Can’t Be MY Life!Welcome to my trailer of Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive Warrior. This is a quick introduction to what you will be hearing about throughout my episodes. My journey through healing and living my best life, and how I can help you achieve that same success.
For more information please contact Angie at: BAWarrior360@gmail.com
2021-02-1001 minBe-YOU-tiful Adaptive WarriorThis Can’t Be MY Life!Welcome to my trailer of Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive Warrior. This is a quick introduction to what you will be hearing about throughout my episodes. My journey through healing and living my best life, and how I can help you achieve that same success.
For more information please contact Angie at: BAWarrior360@gmail.com
2021-02-1001 min