Girls with Grafts

Selfish for Survival with Chris Akin

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 10:00:09 +0000

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, Rachel talks with Chris Akin, a burn survivor, entrepreneur, and media personality. Together, they discuss resilience, determination, and how to make the most of each day.

Chris tells the story of the industrial explosion that caused his burn injury and describes his early days recovering in the hospital and how his determination shaped his recovery. 💪 Rachel and Chris also chat about the mindset that helped him move forward. Chris shares that he had to be selfish during recovery, focusing on whatever he needed to heal and return to life, even after being told he had little chance of survival.

They also talk about Chris’s book and his journey as a writer, including what inspired him to share his story and how the experience changed his life. Chris doesn't necessarily see the accident itself as positive, but he explains that the lessons he learned from surviving it led his life in a positive direction. 💛

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Chris Akin is a burn survivor, author, and media personality whose life changed dramatically after a catastrophic industrial explosion in 1994 left him with burns over 69% of his body. Given little chance of survival and facing predictions of amputation and lifelong disability, Chris defied the odds and fought his way through an intense and painful recovery. In his memoir, Call Me Chris: A Tale of Healing, Recovery, Selfishness and Resolve, he shares a brutally honest account of surviving severe burns, navigating the emotional and physical realities of recovery, and rebuilding his life after trauma. Known for his candid storytelling and dark humor, Chris offers a powerful perspective on resilience, identity, and the determination it takes to move forward after a life-altering injury.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by the Donor Alliance Foundation & the Brookby Foundation! Both of these foundations play a critical role in supporting Phoenix Society and our programs. Their partnerships help us continue to create spaces for healing, connection, and advocacy—and we couldn’t do it without them!

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Love Is Blind… But Scars Aren’t: Ashley Nelson on Dating with Hidden Burns

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 10:00:18 +0000

This week on Girls with Grafts, Amber and Rachel sit down with Ashley Nelson for an honest conversation about identity, confidence, and dating after a burn injury.

Ashley shares how she changed her mindset from seeing herself as a “burn victim” to a “burn survivor,” and how this new perspective changed how she views herself. She also talks about her dating experiences, including how she tells her story, the support she received, and the tough moments that helped her grow. ❤️

Ashley also describes small acts of courage, like getting a pedicure at a nail salon while people stare, and reminding herself that her scars do not define her worth. 💅 We also talk about Love Is Blind Season 10, Emma Betsinger, and how pop culture can start important conversations about vulnerability, being seen, and handling tough topics in relationships.

This episode is real, relatable, and reminds us that confidence isn’t about hiding your scars. It’s about owning your story. ✨

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Ashley Nelson is 33 years old and sustained burns over 35% of her body at the age of 24. She currently works as a Sales Account Manager and holds a degree in Psychology.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Gropper & Nejat, a personal injury firm dedicated to supporting burn survivors in New York and New Jersey. They understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges that come with burn injuries and fight tirelessly to secure justice and compensation for their clients. Receive a free consultation today by visiting groppernejat.com.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

How to Decide if Reconstructive Scar Surgery Is Right for You with Dr. Cliff Sheckter

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 11:00:52 +0000

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, Rachel talks with burn surgeon and researcher Dr. Cliff Sheckter about how to give survivors better tools and information when they are thinking about reconstructive scar surgery. 🩺

We discuss the Decision Aid for Reconstructive Scar Surgery, a new resource to help survivors decide if surgery is right for them. Dr. Sheckter explains why this tool was made, what questions it helps answer, and how it helps survivors think about both practical results and quality of life. ❓ We discuss why some survivors may feel let down even after a successful procedure and look at how expectations, identity, and healing are all closely linked.

Rachel and Dr. Sheckter also look at the bigger picture, including gaps in research about scar outcomes, how “quality of life” is measured in burn recovery, and what future studies may focus on. This episode offers practical and encouraging advice to help you make choices that feel right for you.

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Dr. Cliff Sheckter is the Burn Center Director at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, which serves the San Francisco Bay Area in burn and trauma care. He is double board certified in plastic/reconstructive surgery and surgical critical care and dedicates his practice to burn patients and survivors. He completed his medical/surgical training at USC, Stanford, and the University of Washington. Dr. Sheckter is an Assistant Professor of Surgery at Stanford University and teaches medical students and residents comprehensive burn care. He is also a health policy researcher and has published multiple articles related to burn survivor quality-of-life and health economics in burn care.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by AlloSource! AlloSource is one of the largest human tissue providers, honoring tissue donors by creating innovative skin allografts to help burn surgeons heal patients. Learn more about AlloSource and their continuing education hours by visiting their Resource Marketplace Listing directly on Phoenix Society’s website.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Healing Is a Journey, Not a Destination with Mikki Rothbauer: Why Support Group Needs You

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 11:00:47 +0000

This week on Girls with Grafts, Rachel talks with Mikki Rothbauer, a psychotherapist who has spent over twenty years helping burn survivors and their families at Regions Hospital Burn Center.

Mikki talks about what she has learned from years of supporting burn survivors, from the first days after injury to long-term healing. 💛 She leads burn support groups and coordinates a hospital-based Phoenix SOAR program. Mikki often reminds patients, “support group needs you.” In this episode, she explains why letting survivors choose to join peer support can be an important part of recovery.

Rachel and Mikki discuss the emotional impacts of burn injuries, how to know when it may be time to get professional mental health help, and how resilience and confidence support healing. 💪 We also talk openly about topics that are often overlooked, like body image, sexuality, and intimacy after a burn injury, sharing both survivor and caregiver perspectives with honesty and care.

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Mikki Rothbauer, MSW, LICSW, is a pediatric and adult burn and trauma psychotherapist who has worked with burn survivors and their families in a Level 1 trauma center for more than 21 years. She is deeply passionate about supporting survivors of burn and trauma injuries and considers it a privilege to be part of each patient’s healing journey.

Recognizing that burn and trauma injuries impact the entire family, Mikki works closely with patients and their support systems from the onset of injury through the months and years that follow. She emphasizes cognitive behavioral strategies to help address acute stress and PTSD symptoms, and her clinical focus also includes grief and loss, cosmetic differences, hidden burns and injuries, survivor’s guilt, and work-related injuries.

Mikki enjoys working with patients of all ages and uses a collaborative, patient-centered approach to support individuals as they return to living full and meaningful lives. She facilitates burn support groups, coordinates her center’s SOAR peer support program, and has a special interest in addressing body image and sexuality concerns during recovery.

In addition to her clinical work, Mikki has contributed to the field through published articles and book chapters related to trauma and burn recovery. She considers it a true honor to walk alongside patients and their loved ones as they navigate recovery after traumatic injury.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by the Bert Martin Foundation! The Bert Martin Foundation was established to assist those who help others and provide financial support for nonprofit organizations. We’re honored to have the Bert Martin Foundation as a long-standing Phoenix Society Partner.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

“It’ll Get Better”: Shaun Free on Healing After a Workplace Burn Injury

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 11:00:12 +0000

In honor of National Burn Awareness Week, Rachel and Amber sit down with burn survivor Shaun Free to talk about survival, healing, and the powerful growth that can come after trauma. Shaun shares the story of the propane explosion that changed his life, his long road through recovery, and how he reframed PTSD into what he calls post-traumatic growth. 💪

From building a propane forge and crafting knives as part of his healing, to returning to teach motorcycle safety classes just weeks after leaving the hospital, Shaun opens up about finding purpose again through creativity, service, and community. He also reflects on the mental side of recovery, his experience as a counselor at Camp Eyabsut, and what it was like to tattoo over grafted skin.

With honesty, humor, and heart, Shaun’s story is a reminder that recovery isn’t just about surviving—it’s about discovering who you can become on the other side. 💛

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories #NBAW #Ameriburn

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

On March 13, 2018, Shaun Free survived a devastating industrial propane explosion. The 3,000-gallon delivery truck he was working beneath leaked 300 gallons of liquid propane, forming a thick, knee-high cloud that blanketed the ground. As Shaun tried to shut the main valve, something ignited the pool of gas he was lying in. In a blinding flash, his life changed forever. He crawled out from under the truck while on fire and saw widespread destruction—along with a life-saving snowbank Shaun ran to, using it to extinguish the flames.

He was airlifted from Montana to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, Washington. Shaun sustained burns over 46% of his body, required multiple surgeries, coded, and experienced a near-death event. He remained intubated for 10 days while battling double pneumonia, MRSA in a burn graft on his left leg, and numerous other complications that kept him in the Burn ICU for weeks.

This experience revealed who he was and what he was capable of overcoming. Shaun learned how to make the most of a terrible situation, how to look beyond the chaos, and how to focus on anything that could help improve his circumstances. He now shares his journey—along with the experiences, successes, and failures that shaped his recovery—in the hope of guiding and inspiring others.

In the Wake of Switzerland’s Bar Fire: Lessons from the Station Nightclub Fire

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 17:00:26 +0000

Season 8 of Girls with Grafts opens with a powerful and timely conversation following the recent Crans-Montana bar fire tragedy. In this special episode, Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors CEO Amy Acton steps into the moderator’s seat, guiding a discussion that centers both the human impact of fire and the need for prevention.

Amy is joined by Lorraine Carli, Vice President of Outreach and Advocacy at National Fire Protection Association, along with Rob Feeney and Gina Russo, both survivors of The Station Nightclub Fire. Together, they reflect on the parallels between past and present tragedies, examine gaps in fire safety systems and accountability, and explore how complacency, policy decisions, and community action can mean the difference between life and loss. 💛

This episode goes beyond headlines—It’s a sobering but hopeful start to season 8, reminding us that prevention is possible, and that change begins when we choose to act. 🙏

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guests

Lorraine Carli joined NFPA in 2006 and serves as Vice President of Outreach and Advocacy, overseeing media, public affairs, government affairs, advocacy, wildfire initiatives, and public education. She also leads NFPA’s U.S. and Canada regional operations and NFPA Journal®. Lorraine holds degrees from Northeastern University and the University of Massachusetts and serves in leadership roles with the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition, the National Fallen Fire Fighters Foundation, the Electric Safety Foundation International, and The Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors.

Rob Feeney is a survivor of The Station Nightclub Fire and a dedicated fire safety advocate. He is a trained Phoenix SOAR Peer Supporter and Phoenix Advocate and received the Phoenix Society Advocacy Award in 2013 for his work on fire sprinkler legislation. Rob also serves as a firefighter and assistant fire prevention officer with the Onset Fire Department in Massachusetts and writes for the NFPA Fire Sprinkler Initiative.

Gina Russo is a survivor of The Station Nightclub Fire and a Phoenix SOAR Peer Supporter. After sustaining severe burns and losing her fiancé in the fire, she turned to storytelling and advocacy as part of her healing journey. Gina is the author of From the Ashes and is passionate about supporting new survivors as they navigate recovery and rebuild their lives.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by the National Fire Protection Association! NFPA is a nonprofit that seeks to save lives and reduce loss with information, knowledge, & passion. Learn more about fire safety and explore their educational resources by visiting www.nfpa.org.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

A Painful Blessing: Francisco Padilla’s Journey from Burn Survivor to Physical Therapist

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 11:00:03 +0000

In the Season 7 finale of Girls with Grafts, Amber and Rachel sit down with physical therapist, burn survivor, and clinic owner Dr. Francisco Padilla for an inspiring full-circle conversation about healing, purpose, and the power of movement. 💛

Francisco begins by sharing the story of his accident and the long road through recovery, including the pivotal role physical therapy played in his healing. He opens up about the PT mentors who believed in him, encouraged him to return to school, and ultimately inspired him to earn his Doctorate of Physical Therapy.

The conversation then turns to his journey from patient to practitioner. Francisco reflects on opening his own practice, the importance of building strong, trusting relationships with clients, and what he’s learned about supporting people through some of the hardest chapters of their lives. 💪 He also offers practical tips for survivors who feel stuck in their healing journey and breaks down different PT strategies and modalities that can support mobility, confidence, and long-term recovery.

This episode wraps our season with a powerful reminder: healing isn’t linear, but with persistence, guidance, and community, transformation is possible! 🎉

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Francisco Padilla, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, is the owner of Padilla Physical Therapy and Fitness Incorporated in Wasco, California. In 2012, Francisco survived a severe car accident that left him with burns covering 80% of his body, necessitating 30 surgeries and a 10-and-a-half-month hospitalization. His extensive recovery journey inspired him to return to school, ultimately leading to his career as a physical therapist. Francisco is dedicated to helping others regain full function and is passionate about educating people on the benefits of health and wellness.

Links

👉Follow Francisco on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/franciscopadillapt/?hl=en

👉Follow Francisco’s Practice on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/padillaphysicaltherapy/?hl=en

👉Visit Padilla Physical Therapy and Fitness Incorporated’s website: https://padillaphysicaltherapy.com/

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by the supporters who empower Phoenix World Burn Congress and Phoenix Society’s work all year long. Organizations like the DC Firefighters Burn Foundation, the Akron Children’s Adult and Pediatric Burn Institute and the Bakersfield Firefighters Burn Foundation play a vital role by helping survivors and families attend Phoenix WBC through travel and financial assistance. Their generosity ensures that more people can experience the connection, support, and community that help us all rise together.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

It’s a Lovely Thing: When Scars Build Community

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 11:00:16 +0000

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, Amber and Rachel are joined by 19-year-old burn survivor and aspiring author and speaker, Lovely Bruce. Lovely shares her burn story, her experience growing up as a survivor, and the moments that taught her resilience, faith, and the courage to embrace her scars. 💪

Together, we explore how Lovely found confidence in her identity, the power of speaking with purpose, and why she’s passionate about helping others find strength in their own stories. 🫶 Lovely also reflects on her first-ever Phoenix World Burn Congress—what it meant to feel truly seen and supported by community, and why connection is such an essential part of healing.

This is a conversation filled with wisdom, heart, and the powerful voice of a young survivor determined to make an impact!

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Lovely Bruce is a nineteen-year-old Alabama native and a student at Alabama State University. She dreams of becoming a book writer, motivational speaker, and social media influencer. At the age of six, she survived a backyard fire that resulted in third-degree burns covering forty percent of her body. That life-changing experience shaped who she is today, teaching her resilience, faith, and the power of speaking with purpose.

As a burn survivor, Lovely is passionate about advocating for the burn community, spreading awareness, and helping others embrace their true selves. She loves encouraging people to find strength in their stories and to see their scars—whether physical or emotional—as reflections of endurance and hope.

Links

👉Learn more about Phoenix World Burn Congress: https://www.phoenix-society.org/phoenix-wbc

👉Follow Lovely on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/burntbae/?hl=en

👉Follow Lovely on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atlantis.love.16

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Johnson Controls! Johnson Controls is a global leader in fire safety and suppression technologies, helping to save lives and protect people around the world. Learn more about Johnson Controls by visiting their website: https://www.johnsoncontrols.com.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Pet Therapy and the Healing Power of Companionship with Dr. Kenny Tello

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 11:00:35 +0000

In our latest episode of Girls with Grafts, we sit down with Dr. Kenny Tello, Corporate Director of Team Member Well-Being at Orlando Health, where he leads initiatives that empower people, elevate leaders, and build cultures rooted in care, connection, and transformation.

Together, we dive into the healing world of pet therapy! 🐾 Dr. Tello helps us understand the science behind pet therapy, the importance of proper pet handling and program design, and the emotional benefits that animals offer in restoring trust, reducing anxiety, and supporting trauma recovery. He also offers practical guidance for anyone interested in launching a pet therapy program—from safety and structure to purpose and impact.

Join us as Dr. Tello helps us rethink care, embrace empathy, and explore how even four paws can help transform the human spirit! 🐶

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Dr. Kenny Tello serves as the Corporate Director of Team Member Well-Being at Orlando Health, where he leads initiatives that empower team members and equip leaders to foster a culture of care and organizational transformation. With over 20 years of clinical experience and extensive research in Industrial and Organizational Psychology and Leadership, he is recognized as an expert in mental health and human performance. Dr. Tello has been instrumental in developing nationally recognized programs and has consulted globally on critical incident protocols. Dr. Tello continues to champion science-based strategies to help individuals and organizations thrive.

Links

👉 Read Dr. Tello’s article “Pet Therapy as a Healing Art: How Animals Help Us Heal in Hospitals:” https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/pet-therapy-as-a-healing-art-how-animals-help-us-heal-in-hospitals

👉 Read “One Family, Two Dogs, and a Whole Lot of Love:” https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/one-family-two-dogs-and-a-whole-lot-of-love

👉 Read “FAQ: Pets at Home After Burn Injury:” https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/faq-pets-at-home-after-burn-injury

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by one of our fire prevention partners, Telgian! Telgian is committed to providing effective and innovative fire protection, life safety and security programs. Learn more by visiting www.telgian.com.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Healing Forward: From Childhood Burn Survivor to Future Occupational Therapist

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 11:00:25 +0000

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, Amber and Rachel are joined by 20-year-old burn survivor and future Occupational Therapist, Ali Moll. Ali shares her story of becoming a burn survivor at just two and a half years old after falling into a campfire and how that moment shaped her journey, identity, and purpose.

Together, we explore the powerful impact of her support system growing up, how her experiences influenced her self-confidence, and how she learned to embrace her scars as a source of strength rather than a limitation. ✨

Now a student at the University of Wisconsin–Madison studying to become an Occupational Therapist, Ali talks about her passion for helping others heal. 💛 She shares why she became a Phoenix SOAR Peer Supporter, her desire to help survivors feel seen and supported, and her advice for those learning to navigate their own healing journey.

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Today's guest is Ali Moll! Ali is 20 years old and became a burn survivor at the age of two and a half when she fell into a camp fire. She is currently in college at UW Madison studying to become an Occupational Therapist!

Links

👉 Learn more about Phoenix SOAR (Survivors Offering Assistance in Recovery): https://resources.phoenix-society.org/phoenix-soar

👉 Download “Beyond Surviving: Tools for Social Empowerment:” https://resources.phoenix-society.org/beyond-surviving-whitepaper

Podcast Sponsor

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Our 100th Episode Celebration with Kechi Okwuchi!

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 20:30:57 +0000

We’re celebrating 100 episodes of Girls with Grafts—and we couldn’t think of a better guest to mark this milestone than our friend and returning guest, Kechi Okwuchi! 🎉

In this special episode, Amber and Rachel look back at how the podcast began, the stories that shaped it, and the incredible community that has grown around it. Then we catch up with Kechi, who brings her warmth, honesty, and humor to a conversation that reminds us why this community matters so much. Together, we explore what it means to surround yourself with the right people, how community lifts us through every chapter, and the shared resilience. 💪

This episode is a celebration of every listener, every survivor, every supporter, and every story shared along the way. Here’s to 100 episodes—and the community that makes it all possible! 🫶

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Kechi is a Nigerian-born author and powerful singer. She is an inspirational and TEDx keynote speaker, MBA graduate, and bullying prevention advocate. Her dramatic story, as well as her impactful messages of resiliency and overcoming combine powerfully to inspire personal and cultural transformation.

Kechi hopes to use her voice and her story to ignite hope all over the world within those that need it.

Links

👉 Follow Kechi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kechiofficial/?hl=en

👉 Learn more about Phoenix World Burn Congress: https://www.phoenix-society.org/phoenix-wbc

👉 Make a Giving Tuesday gift: https://give.phoenix-society.org/campaign/748897/donate

👉 Share your story with Phoenix Society: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/triptych-october-eom

👉 Listen to “Healing Hands: Pediatric Burn Care & Reconstructive Surgery with Dr. Shaun Mendenhall:” https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/healing-hands-pediatric-burn-care-reconstructive-surgery/id1646466634?i=1000693641360

👉 Follow Dr. Shaun Mendenhall on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pedshanddoc/?hl=en

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Summit Fire Consulting, a national fire protection engineering and code consulting firm dedicated to helping people design and maintain complex buildings. Their team of experts interpret modern fire and building codes, design fire suppression and smoke management systems, assess risk, and ensure means of egress are safe in a wide variety of facilities—from healthcare, industrial, and historical buildings to stadiums and multi-family housing.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Healing the Invisible: Surviving, Serving, and Mothering After Trauma with Brooke DelGaudio

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 11:00:06 +0000

In this powerful episode of Girls with Grafts, Rachel and Amber sit down with Brooke DelGaudio, a nurse practitioner, mom, and childhood burn survivor who’s turned her pain into purpose. 💙 Brooke opens up about growing up as a burn survivor, the invisible scars of childhood trauma, and the ways those experiences continue to shape her adult life.

Together, they dive into what it means to live with “hidden burns,” navigate imposter syndrome, and bring empathy into healthcare from a survivor’s perspective. 🩺 Brooke also shares how becoming a mom has invited new layers of healing—and how she’s breaking cycles through self-awareness, compassion, and intentional parenting.

Plus, Brooke and Amber swap stories about the house rules and kitchen safety lessons they now practice with their own families: Reminders that healing isn’t just about recovery, it’s about rewriting the future.✨

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories #ChildhoodTrauma #BurnCare

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Brooke DelGaudio is a 40-year-old nurse practitioner based in Denver, Colorado, specializing in wound care. Her passion for this work is deeply rooted in her personal experience as a burn survivor. At 18 months old, she sustained 3rd- and 4th-degree burns over 35% of her body after climbing into a sink with a faulty water temperature gauge. By the age of 10, she had undergone 25 surgeries. These early experiences—and the resilience they required—continue to shape her both personally and professionally.

Growing up, Brooke attended Cheley Burn Camp, where she learned to embrace her scars and began building confidence in herself. While there are still moments of struggle—like when friends invite her for pedicures, reminding her she doesn’t have toenails, or when sore feet make her wish for “normal skin”—she has come to accept that her scars are an integral part of her story.

Outside of her professional work, Brooke volunteers with Phoenix SOAR,offering the guidance, empathy, and realistic perspective she once needed herself is particularly meaningful to her.

In her free time, Brooke enjoys baking, snowboarding, and spending time with her husband and their three-year-old. She believes in the lifelong journey of healing and embodies the message of her tattoo: “strength is beautiful.”

Links

👉 Learn more about Phoenix SOAR: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/phoenix-soar

👉 Read “Hidden Burns Matter:” https://phoenix-society.org/resources/hidden-burns-matter

👉 Read “Learning to Live with Hidden Burns:” https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/learning-to-live-with-hidden-burns

👉 Read “Burnout in Burn Care: A Call to Care for Ourselves and Each Other:” https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/burnout-in-burn-care-a-call-to-care-for-ourselves-and-each-other

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Cunningham Law Firm! Located in Phoenix, Arizona and helping clients nationwide, the Cunningham Law Firm specializes in personal injury, wrongful death and burn related cases. Learn more by visiting https://cunninghamlawfirm.com.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Recreation Therapy & the Power of Storytelling with Emily Hespeler

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 10:00:01 +0000

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, Rachel sits down with Emily Hespeler, a burn survivor, storyteller, and certified therapeutic recreation specialist (CTRS). Emily shares how recreation therapy empowers survivors to heal, grow, and reclaim independence after trauma, and how sharing your story can open doors to connection and community. 🧘‍♂️

Together, Emily and Rachel explore what it means to feel confident in your own skin, the power of affirmations (like Emily’s go-to: “I’m a baddie”), and the importance of showing up authentically in every space. 💛 Emily also gives us a glimpse into their community meet-ups in New York City, where creativity, connection, and resilience thrive.

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Emily Hespeler is a certified therapeutic recreation specialist (CTRS), burn survivor, speaker, and storyteller based in New York City. Drawing from their personal journey of recovery and resilience after their burn injury, Emily combines professional expertise in recreation therapy with powerful storytelling to inspire others to embrace their inner strength. In their everyday life, Emily finds joy in simple routines: daily walks, spontaneous conversations with strangers, and their weekly jar of peanut butter.

Links

👉 Visit Emily’s website: https://www.emilyhespeler.com/

👉 Watch Emily’s 2025 Edinburgh Fringe show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQMhLYgMGsA

👉 Learn more and register for Phoenix World Burn Congress 2025: https://events.phoenix-society.org/event/PWBC2025/summary

👉 Join Phoenix Society’s Virtual Support Group: https://www.phoenix-society.org/what-we-do/virtual-support-group

👉 Submit your story to our Virtual Open Mic: https://www.phoenix-society.org/open-mic-submission

Podcast Sponsor

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Everyday Devices, Hidden Dangers: Lithium-Ion Fire Safety with Brandon Ingram

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 10:00:23 +0000

It’s Fire Prevention Week! This year’s campaign, Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home, raises awareness about safe use, storage, and disposal of the batteries powering our everyday devices. 🔥

Joining us is Brandon Ingram, a seasoned fire protection engineer with Summit Fire Consulting. With 14+ years of experience spanning fire modeling, code consulting, sprinkler design, and combustible dust hazards, Brandon brings expert insight into keeping your home and family safe.

In this episode, powered by Summit Fire Consulting, we break down the dangers of thermal runaway: when a lithium-ion battery overheats, vents gas, and ignites. Learn the key causes, how to prevent risks, safe storage and disposal practices, and why choosing cheaper electronics could actually increase fire hazards! 🔋

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories #FirePreventionWeek #FirePrevention #FireSafety

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Brandon Ingram is a fire protection engineer with Summit Fire Consulting. He studied Mechanical Engineering and Fire Protection Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Maryland. He has over 14 years of experience in the fire protection industry including fire modeling, code consulting, fire/explosion investigation, sprinkler systems, and combustible dust hazards. He currently lives in Washington, DC.

Podcast Sponsor

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

From Heartbreak to Healing: Jenny’s Journey After Loss

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 10:00:36 +0000

In this heartfelt episode of Girls with Grafts, Rachel is joined by author and advocate Jenny Brandemuehl and Phoenix Society's Senior Director of Programs and Services, Jill Sproul. Jenny shares her deeply personal journey of love, loss, and resilience after the tragic plane crash and burn injury that claimed her husband Mark's life. 💛 Together, they explore the moments that reshaped Jenny's path, her upcoming memoir Forever Fly Free, and how she continues to find healing and purpose. Jill offers insight from her decades in burn care, sharing guidance for both survivors and the professionals who support them.

This episode is a moving reminder of the strength found in community, the courage to tell your story, and the power of hope in the face of life's most difficult chapters.

📚 Get Jenny's book, Forever Fly Free, at: foreverflyfree.com/category/all-products.

Use code "PSBS" for 10% off orders placed before October 14, 2025, with the link above.

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories #Author #ForeverFlyFree

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Jenny Brandemuehl is the author of Forever Fly Free: One Woman’s Story of Resilience and the Power of Hope and Love, coming October 2025 from Regalo Press. She’s an advocate for families who have lost a loved one to traumatic accidents and speaks widely on personal resilience, grief, and healing. She’ll be a featured speaker at the 2025 Phoenix World Burn Congress (WBC) hosted by Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors.

Jenny describes herself as an “ordinary person who had an extraordinary experience.” After the sudden death of her husband Mark following a small engine plane crash and severe burn injuries, she found herself transformed by the compassion of the burn care team and the unexpected power of hope. Her journey through loss and healing has led her into a new chapter as a writer and speaker, with a mission to inspire others to access their own inner strength and wisdom.

Before becoming an author, Jenny spent decades as a corporate leader, most recently as Chief People Officer at Chegg, Inc., where her team helped earn the company a spot on Fortune’s Top 100 Best Places to Work. She’s held leadership roles at JDS Uniphase, Gap Inc., and Hewlett Packard, and served on the Wellesley College Business Leadership Board and the board of Women’s Initiative for Self-Employment (WISE), which empowers low-income women to become entrepreneurs.

Jenny is an avid skier, hiker, and tree-hugger. She lives with her partner Robert, who keeps her laughing daily, and adores her two sons, who share her love of travel, food, and music.

Links

👉 Get Jenny’s book, Forever Fly Free, at: https://www.foreverflyfree.com/category/all-products **Use code “PSBS” for 10% off for orders placed before October 14, 2025, with the link above**

👉 Order Jenny’s book from Amazon: https://a.co/d/iW9Db3C

👉 Order Jenny’s book from Target: https://www.target.com/p/forever-fly-free-by-jenny-brandemuehl-hardcover/-/A-1003087061#lnk=sametab

👉 Order Jenny’s book from Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/forever-fly-free-jenny-brandemuehl/1147370213?ean=9798895650301

👉 Follow Jenny’s Substack: https://jennybrandemuehl.substack.com

👉 Learn more and register for Phoenix World Burn Congress 2025: https://events.phoenix-society.org/event/PWBC2025/summary

Podcast Sponsor

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

From Survivor to the Big Screen: John O’Leary’s Soul on Fire

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 10:00:05 +0000

In this bonus episode of Girls with Grafts, we welcome John O'Leary — internationally acclaimed speaker, bestselling author, former Phoenix Society board member, and now the inspiration behind the powerful new feature film Soul on Fire. 🎬 John shares his journey from survivor to storyteller, what it was like to see his life translated to the big screen, and the deeper message of Soul on Fire.

As part of this launch, Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors is partnering with John, World Wide Technology, PolyNovo, and Sony to host free private screenings of Soul on Fire across the country. 🎉 Learn more and find a screening near you: https://www.phoenix-society.org/soul-on-fire

John's story reminds us that true heroes are found in everyday moments of connection and that community has the power to carry us through. 🫶

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories #SoulOnFire #LiveInspired

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Once expected to die after a devastating burn injury, John O’Leary now empowers audiences around the world to truly live. An internationally acclaimed speaker, bestselling author, renowned podcast host, and former Phoenix Society board member, John has inspired hundreds of thousands of people with his powerful storytelling, heartfelt insights, and unexpected humor. His journey of resilience and hope continues to reach new audiences with the upcoming release of Soul on Fire, a feature film based on his extraordinary life and message.

Links

👉 Add your name to our private screening interest list: https://www.phoenix-society.org/soul-on-fire

👉 Learn more about Soul on Fire: https://soulonfiremovie.com/

👉 Find Soul on Fire in a theater near you: https://soulonfiremovie.com/tickets/

👉 Learn more about John O’Leary: https://johnolearyinspires.com/

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by PolyNovo! PolyNovo is a leader in advanced wound care solutions that support healing for burn survivors and patients with complex wounds. With a commitment to improving outcomes and quality of life, PolyNovo’s groundbreaking technology is transforming the future of reconstructive and burn care around the world.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

I’m Still Me: Resilience After a Burn Injury

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 10:00:36 +0000

In this episode of Girls With Grafts, we sit down with Terry Boyd, a 37-year burn survivor whose story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. 💪 At just 20 years old, Terry sustained burns over 93% of his body, resulting in the amputation of both legs. His journey has taken him from survival to fatherhood, from working in mental health and addiction recovery to founding his own recruiting company, and now to becoming an author. Terry’s upcoming children’s book, Still Me, inspires families and communities to embrace new normals with courage and hope. 💙

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Terry A. Boyd is a 57-year-old father and 37-year burn survivor. At the age of 20, in 1988, he sustained burns over 93% of his body, resulting in the amputation of both legs. His survival is a testament to resilience, faith, determination, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Professionally, Terry has dedicated his life to helping others. He has worked in mental health with at-risk youth and in the addiction recovery field, supporting individuals and families through some of life’s toughest challenges. In 1999, he founded STAFF-RITE Personnel Services, launching a successful career in recruiting that has spanned more than two decades.

Most recently, Terry became a first-time author with the upcoming release of his children’s book, Still Me, the story of Jordan, a young boy who survives a burn injury. Through this book, Terry hopes to encourage children, families, and communities to embrace new normals with courage, compassion, and hope.

As a proud father of a 21-year-old son, Terry shares his journey not only as a survivor, but as a parent, professional, and storyteller—living proof of the power of faith, perseverance, humor, and love.

Links & Notes

👉 Explore our resources and tools on mental health: https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources?hierarchicalMenu%5Bfields.topics.lvl0%5D=Mental%20%2F%20Emotional%20Healing&page=1

👉 Get connected with the Amputee Coalition: https://amputee-coalition.org

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Jensen Hughes! Since 1939, Jensen Hughes has been a global leader in fire protection engineering and safety solutions. With expert knowledge, innovative strategies, and groundbreaking research, they help clients protect lives, property, and reputations—making the world a safer, more resilient place.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org

A Healer Forged in Fire: Cathy Marie Morton’s Journey Through Burn Survival and Healing

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 10:00:44 +0000

At just four years old, Cathy Marie Morton survived third-degree burns over 80% of her body, enduring 19 graft operations. Her story didn’t end there—she later survived 20 years of domestic violence. Despite unimaginable trauma, Cathy chose to transform her pain into purpose. Today, she is a Reiki Master, life force harmonizer, and emotional alchemy specialist, helping others reclaim their strength and healing. ✨

In this episode, Cathy opens up about pivotal turning points in her recovery and learning to feel safe in your body after trauma. 💛 We also explore the tools and practices that supported her journey, from physical healing to spiritual growth, and her mission to give back to the survivor community.

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

At the age of 4, Cathy Marie Morton survived third-degree burns over 80% of her body, enduring 19 graft operations. Later, she also became a survivor of domestic violence at the hands of her father for 20 years. Her determination to survive and heal led her on a path of transformation—becoming a Reiki Master, life force harmonizer, and emotional alchemy specialist. Cathy merged her metaphysical knowledge and survivor story in her book “A Healer Forged in Fire.” Today, she continues to guide others in their healing, embodying resilience and hope.

Links

👉 Visit Cathy’s website: https://cathymariemorton.com/

👉Watch Cathy’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CathyMarieMorton

👉Visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline: https://www.thehotline.org

👉Visit the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence: https://nrcdv.org

👉 Get Cathy’s book “A Healer Forged in Fire” here: https://www.amazon.com/Healer-Forged-Cathy-Marie-Morton/dp/B0FJZQMHP1

👉 Learn more and register for Phoenix World Burn Congress 2025: https://events.phoenix-society.org/PWBC2025

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Buses by the Beach! Buses by the Beach is a community of VW bus enthusiasts based in West Michigan. They come together to camp, host amazing events, and raise funds to support Phoenix Society. And mark your calendars for Bus Boo 2025, happening October 3 - 5th in Dorr, Michigan.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org

Carrying Your Grief Backpack: A Conversation with Donna McCartney, LISW, MHA

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 20:00:34 +0000

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, we sit down with bereavement counselor Donna McCartney, LISW, MHA. Donna shares her extensive experience supporting families and survivors as they navigate grief, loss, and life after trauma. 💪 From her time at Shriners Hospital for Children - Cincinnati to her work with the Goldstein Family Grief Center, Donna has dedicated her career to providing compassionate support and building community for burn survivors and grieving families. Join us as we talk about resilience, peer connection, and the ways we can support one another in the healing process. 🫶

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

🔗 Looking for links? Check out our show’s description on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Donna McCartney, LISW, MHA has been a bereavement counselor with the Goldstein Family Grief Center since November 2020. She has a Master in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and a Master in Healthcare Administration from Ohio University. Prior to working at Hospice of Cincinnati, she worked at The Shriners Hospital for Children - Cincinnati, where she provided support for patients and families following burn injuries, facilitated peer support programs, and developed programming for burn survivors and their families. Her experience as a clinician is extensive—helping individuals and families navigate the unique challenges that present when grieving a death loss and other life-changing losses. Donna is passionate about being an advocate for those who are grieving and educating the community on grief and loss.

Links

👉 Learn more about the Goldstein Family Grief Center: https://hospiceofcincinnati.org/services/grief-services

👉 Read “Supporting the Grief Journey After a Burn Injury:” https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/supporting-the-grief-journey-after-a-burn-injury

👉 Learn more about helping children deal with grief: https://childmind.org/article/helping-children-deal-grief/

👉 Register and join us at Phoenix World Burn Congress 2025: https://events.phoenix-society.org/event/PWBC2025/summary

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Gropper & Nejat, a personal injury firm dedicated to supporting burn survivors in New York and New Jersey. They understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges that come with burn injuries and fight tirelessly to secure justice and compensation for their clients. Receive a free consultation today by visiting groppernejat.com.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Vulnerability, Confidence, and Making a Move with Mike Lopez

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 10:00:55 +0000

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, Rachel sits down with Mike Lopez, burn survivor, amputee, and grappler who's turned his lived experience into a mission. 💪 From growing up as the youngest of eight in a tight-knit family to navigating the physical and emotional challenges of his burn injury, Mike shares how vulnerability became a key part of his healing.

Together, they dive into what it means to look confident vs. feeling confident, how body image has evolved throughout Mike's journey, and why embracing authenticity has been so powerful. 💛 He also opens up about using his Make a Move vlog to spotlight stories of everyday resilience, and offers meaningful advice for those attending Phoenix World Burn Congress for the first time!

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Martin Michael Lopez is the youngest of eight and a proud uncle to more than a dozen nieces and nephews. Rooted in family and shaped by their resilience, Mike carries his values with humility, knowing he’s had access to opportunities his loved ones did not.

His life changed forever after surviving a devastating car crash caused by a close friend. The accident left him in a coma, resulted in the loss of his left eye and hand, and caused burns over 30% of his upper body. Despite the odds, Mike left the hospital in just three months and went on to earn a degree in Economics from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo - juggling surgeries, recovery, and self-discovery along the way.

The traditional 9-to-5 world didn’t align with his values, but the burn community did. Inspired by mentor Dr. Ruth Rimmer, Mike began sharing his story to help others - showing up not for attention, but in service.

Today, he is a competitive grappler and the creator of Make A Move, a vlog series amplifying the voices of amputees, burn survivors, and others reshaping their communities. Through these stories, Mike is challenging assumptions and spotlighting the strength found in adversity

Links

👉 Follow Make a Move: https://linktr.ee/makeamove.mml

👉 Learn more about Mike’s journey: https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/from-the-ashes-my-journey-to-make-a-move

👉 Learn more and register for Phoenix World Burn Congress: https://events.phoenix-society.org/event/PWBC2025

👉 Learn more and get peer support through Phoenix SOAR: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/phoenix-soar

Podcast Sponsor

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

The Social Work Behind the Survivors: Maggie Gould's Impact on Burn Recovery

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 10:00:11 +0000

In this season premiere of Girls with Grafts, we’re sitting down with Maggie Gould—a powerhouse in burn recovery support and clinical social work. 💛 From ICU rooms to support groups, Maggie has spent years walking alongside burn survivors and their families, helping them navigate not just healing, but life beyond the hospital walls. Tune in to hear about her healthcare career, the importance of social work, and how social workers like her are critical to the healing journey. 💪 This is a story of compassion, community, and continuing care.

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories #Healthcare #BurnCare #SocialWork

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Maggie Gould is a licensed clinical social worker who has been with the University of Colorado Hospital since 2017, working across various medical settings, including the burn center, where she supported survivors and families from ICU to outpatient care. She now serves on the hospital’s palliative care team and continues to lead support groups for burn survivors and their families through Phoenix Society.  Maggie is passionate about educating others on the role of social work in healthcare, mentoring interns, teaching as an adjunct professor, and contributing to research and publications. She lives in Denver with her husband Chad and their Westies, Minnie and Daisy.

Links

👉 Learn more about Phoenix Society’s virtual support group: https://www.phoenix-society.org/what-we-do/virtual-support-group

👉 Find tools for burn care professionals: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/tools-for-burn-care-professionals

👉 Explore all of Phoenix Society’s tools for survivors and caregivers: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/tools-for-burn-survivors-and-caregivers

Podcast Sponsor

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

When the Unimaginable Happens: A Mother’s Journey of Healing with Carolyn Mae Kim

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In the heartfelt season six finale of Girls with Grafts, Rachel and Amber sit down with Carolyn Mae Kim - an accredited public relations professional, author, speaker, and, most importantly, the proud mother of a young burn survivor. 💛 Carolyn shares the powerful story of her son's injury at just 8 months old and the emotional road that followed.

With honesty and grace, Carolyn opens up about the weight of parental guilt, the challenges of navigating parenthood after trauma, and the strength it took to heal alongside her husband. She offers insight into how her son's recovery has evolved as he's grown, the importance of creating space for both grief and growth and how their family intentionally celebrates each milestone of the healing journey.

This episode is a must-listen for parents and caregivers! Join us as we close out the season with a story of family, growth, and the power of community. 💪

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories #Parenting #ChildBurnSurvivor #Healing #FamilyHealing

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Carolyn Mae Kim is an accredited public relations professional, speaker, and author recognized for leading teams and crafting purpose-driven communication that builds trust and advances meaningful impact. She’s also the proud mother of a resilient and inspiring fourth grader who is a burn survivor—a role that has profoundly shaped her perspective on advocacy, empathy, and authentic connection.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by the Donor Alliance Foundation and the Brookby Foundation! The Donor Alliance Foundation is dedicated to advancing education and awareness around organ, eye, and tissue donation, while the Brookby Foundation supports transformative programs that improve lives and strengthen communities. We’re grateful for their generous support in helping us share burn community stories. Learn more at DonorAllianceFoundation.org and BrookbyFoundation.org.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Finding the Strength in Our Scars with Kelly Woodhouse

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Kelly Woodhouse is no stranger to resilience. Burned on 75% of her body at just two years old, she has transformed a childhood marked by trauma and bullying into a life of purpose, strength, and inspiration. 🩷 In this episode, Rachel sits down with Kelly to explore her journey from surviving to thriving and how she found the courage to let her scars speak.

Together, Rachel and Kelly reflect on growing up with visible scars, navigating childhood bullying, and how those early experiences shaped their self-image. Kelly shares the moment she decided to stop letting others define her confidence and started owning her story.

From the TEDx stage to a viral Goalcast video with over 10 million views, Kelly talks about what motivates her to speak publicly and how she finds purpose in helping others embrace their own scars. Her message is clear: your pain can become your power! 💪

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Kelly Woodhouse is a burn survivor and was injured when she was 2 on 75% of her body. She found a way to go from near death to success, from the scar-faced girl to the TEDx stage, not once but twice. A documentary about her life story, called Still Beautiful launched on TV plus Goalcast launched a video that has over 10 million views. Global TV announced Kelly as one of the Most Inspirational People of 2020. You have to ask yourself HOW? How did the Scar-Face girl find the strength in her scars?

Podcast Sponsor

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

THINK WIN: A Burn Survivor’s Guide to Strength and Resilience

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this powerful episode, retired U.S. Air Force Colonel and burn survivor Jim Wall joins host Rachel to share his story of survival, resilience, and purpose. 🌟 After sustaining a burn injury in 2022, Jim drew on the strength and discipline from his military career to forge a new path forward, one rooted in what he calls the 4 Fs: faith, family, fitness, and fire.

Jim opens up about the road to recovery and how his military mindset became a cornerstone of his healing. He introduces listeners to his motivational framework, THINK WIN, a powerful acronym built on principles that have guided his post-injury life: Trust the coach, Harness the hurt, Ignite the fire within you, Never tap out, Kneel before you rise, War and will, Internalize your mission, Never alone.

We close out the conversation with Jim's inspiring fitness journey as he trains for a full Ironman this fall, a mission driven not just by personal challenge but by a deep commitment to raise awareness and support the burn community. 💪

#BurnSurvivor #GirlsWithGrafts #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Jim Wall is a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel with 24 years of service as a C-130 and KC-135 pilot, leading organizations and bases around the world, including in combat zones. He now works as a Client Partner at Slalom, guiding enterprise-level transformations across industries.

Jim is a certified executive leadership coach with the John Maxwell Team, committed to personal growth and development. He actively volunteers with Phoenix SOAR at the Regions Burn Center in St. Paul, MN, and mentors students at Minnetonka High School in leadership, aviation, and international relations.

He also leads a men’s faith formation group and is currently training for Ironman Wisconsin in September 2025. A burn survivor since August 13, 2022, Jim channels his experience into service, resilience, and purposeful living.

Podcast Sponsor

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Stories Behind the Data: Insights from the 2024 State of the Survivor Report with Amy Acton

Tue, 20 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, we’re joined by Phoenix Society CEO, Amy Acton, to explore the stories behind the data in the 2024 State of the Survivor Report! 📊Together, we unpack key findings that shed light on the current needs, challenges, and resilience of burn survivors.

Special thanks to our 2024 report sponsor, Mölnlycke Health Care, for their continued support in advancing burn care and championing survivor-centered research.

We wrap up our conversation by highlighting the Top 10 Priorities in Global Burns Research, spotlighting the areas where research and advocacy can make the biggest difference. 🌎

Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, burn care professional, or ally, this episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to improving burn survivor outcomes!

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlsWithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

#BurnSurvivor #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories #Research #BurnCare #Advocacy

Meet Our Guest

Amy Acton is the Chief Executive Officer for Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, where she has served the organization for over 25 years. Amy is a burn survivor, former burn nurse, and a leading advocate for the burn community. She has dedicated her career to promoting the expansion of burn recovery services and resources for burn survivors and their loved ones.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Mölnlycke Health Care! Mölnlycke is a world-leading MedTech company that specializes in innovative solutions for wound care and surgical procedures. Mölnlycke products and solutions are used daily by hospitals, healthcare providers, and patients in over 100 countries around the world.

Mölnlycke Health Care’s advanced wound care dressings, such as Mepilex Ag, are enabled by Safetac® technology, a gentle silicone adhesive that reduces pain and minimizes skin trauma of burn survivors at dressing change. For more information about burn care solutions, you can visit their website at https://www.molnlycke.us/solutions/burns/.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Face Equality Week: Advocating for Authentic Representation in Media with Charlene Pell

Tue, 13 May 2025 16:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, Rachel sits down with Charlene Pell, a burn survivor and the founder of Facing Forward, a nonprofit dedicated to advocating for individuals with visible differences. ✨ Charlene shares her journey, from surviving a burn injury to advocating for face equality.

Rachel and Charlene also dive into Face Equality Week, this year’s theme, “My Face is a Masterpiece,” and why shifting the perception of beauty and identity is so important. 🫶 They discuss the representation of survivors in the media, the challenges of living with a visible difference, and the importance of advocacy. This episode celebrates resilience and the beauty of every survivor!

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlsWithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

#BurnSurvivor #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories #FaceEqualityWeek #IFEW #FEW #FacingForward

Meet Our Guest

Award-winning author, Charlene Pell is the founder and executive director of Facing Forward, a 501©3 nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals with congenital or acquired facial or physical differences contend with staring, improve control of social interactions, and communicate confidently. Thirty years ago, Pell survived a catastrophic plane crash that burned 64 percent of her body, severely injuring her face and hands. She shares her compelling story of physically and emotionally surviving, recovering, and resurrecting her identity in her new book, In This Altered Body: A Survivor’s Story of Resilience and Love.

As a result of her disfigurement and the lack of psychosocial resources available to her during her recovery, Pell researched and created programs and resources to help herself and others adjust to their changed appearance and circumstances. Since 1998, she’s shared her insights internationally as a keynote speaker at conferences for burn survivors and healthcare professionals. She created a nationwide program titled “What to Do When People Stare: A Workshop to Teach Individuals with Disfiguring Conditions to Contend with Staring and Improve Control of Social Interactions.” Her work has been published in Skin, Psychology Today, the American Burn Association’s Journal of Burn Care & Research, and other periodicals.

Before her accident, Pell was vice president of communications for one of the most prominent design centers in the United States, the Design Center of the Americas. She managed and administered its marketing strategy and created extensive public relations programs in cooperation with Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Interior Design, and many other publications. Pell has a master’s in communication studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She lives in Greensboro, North Carolina, with her husband.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by our new Phoenix Partner, Kerecis! From a small town in northwest Iceland, Kerecis develops, manufactures, and sells patented fish-skin soft tissue regeneration products. Kerecis GraftGuide is their intact fish-skin especially developed for the management of burn wounds.

Kerecis fish-skin grafts contain fat, protein, elastin, glycans and other natural skin elements and are supplied in multiple shapes, variants and sizes. Learn more about Kerecis by checking out their website www.kerecis.com or reach out to info@kerecis.com if you are interested in using our products.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

From Violence to Resilience: Davina’s Journey of Strength & Purpose

Mon, 05 May 2025 20:30:00 +0000

Trigger warning: In this episode of Girls with Grafts, we have an important and heartfelt discussion about domestic violence, including personal experiences and the journey to healing. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline by visiting www.thehotline.org, calling 800-799-7233, or texting BEGIN to 88788.

In this deeply moving episode of Girls with Grafts, Rachel and Amber sit down with Davina Licon, a survivor of an acid attack. With vulnerability and courage, Davina shares the story of her attack and the emotional and physical aftermath that has followed. 💛

Through it all, she has found power in resilience and strength in physical activity. As a bodybuilder, she shares how fitness has impacted her journey and offers empowering tips for other survivors looking to reclaim their strength. 💪 Davina also opens up about her journey with faith and believing everything happens for a greater purpose.

This episode is a raw and inspiring testament to the power of burn survivors.

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlsWithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

#BurnSurvivor #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories #Survivor #Strength

Meet Our Guest

Davina Licon is an acid attack survivor as well as a bodybuilder. Being a burn survivor Davina aims to raise awareness of acid attacks and domestic violence by shedding light for survivors. She wants people to understand that acid attacks and domestic violence are more common than we think and it can happen to anyone. Along with being a bodybuilder she hopes to inspire and motivate others to become a better, healthier version of themselves. If she can do it with more than 30% burns anyone can. There is no excuse.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by the Donaldson Foundation! Led by a board comprised of employee volunteers, the mission of the Donaldson Foundation is to positively impact our communities by supporting education. We’re honored to have the Donaldson Foundation as a long-standing Phoenix Society Partner.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Celebrating National Volunteer Week: Jeanette Johnson’s Journey of Healing and Helping

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 20:30:00 +0000

In honor of National Volunteer Week, we're joined by Jeanette Johnson - burn survivor, Phoenix Society volunteer, and a voice of hope and healing. 🤝 In this heartfelt episode, Jeanette shares her journey of recovery over the past five years and how finding connection through Phoenix Society's Virtual Support Group changed everything.

She opens up about the friendships she's formed, including with our co-host Ambe and the community that has grown from a virtual space into a true support system. ✨ Jeanette also shares her experience as a Phoenix SOAR Peer Supporter, including her very first in-person visit just last week.

We dive into what it means to build community in a virtual world, the importance of getting connected early in recovery, and how volunteers like Jeanette are making a lasting impact. A heartfelt thank you to Jeanette for giving back as a volunteer - your compassion, time, and support are helping others feel seen, heard, and never alone on their healing journeys! 💛

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlsWithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

#BurnSurvivor #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories #NationalVolunteerWeek #NVW #Volunteer #PhoenixSOAR #PeerSupport

Meet Our Guest

Jeanette Johnson's journey as a burn survivor and her dedication to peer support have made her an integral part of the Phoenix Society community. Jeanette's story began on June 6, 2020, when she was burned in a smoldering firepit while on vacation in Oklahoma during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her experience in the Burn ICU during such an isolating time helped her realize the value of peer support—such as a smile, a listening ear, or a shared story.

Motivated by her healing journey, Jeanette has been an active member of Phoenix Society's Virtual Support Group for over four years. This community became a lifeline for her, offering not only support but also lifelong friendships. Over time, she has expanded her involvement, becoming a Phoenix SOAR Peer Supporter, a CLIMB instructor, an advocate and speaker for mental health, and a support group leader. She strives to help others know they can rise and thrive after a burn injury.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by the Pritzker Hageman Law Firm! The Pritzker Hageman burn injury legal team helps burn survivors and their loved ones pursue compensation and justice throughout the United States. Learn more at: LegalJourney.guide.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Powering Up: Lithium-Ion Battery Safety with Brian O’Connor, P.E.

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 20:30:00 +0000

In our latest episode of Girls with Grafts, Rachel sits down with Brian O’Connor, a Senior Engineer in the Technical Services department at the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), to discuss lithium-ion batteries. 🔋

From powering our everyday devices like our cell phones, laptops, e-bikes, and more, lithium-ion batteries are everywhere. ⚠️ But do you know the warning signs of battery fires? Or how to stay safe when using them? Brian shares expert insights into what lithium-ion batteries are, where they’re used, and most importantly, how to protect yourself and others from potential hazards.

Listen now to power up your knowledge and stay safe!

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlsWithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

#FireSafety #BatterySafety #FireProtection #LithiumIonBatteries #BurnSurvivor #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast

Meet Our Guest

Brian O’Connor is a Senior Engineer in the Technical Services department at the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and a Past President of the New England Chapter of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers. A licensed professional engineer in Texas and Massachusetts, Brian holds a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Rowan University and a Master’s degree in Fire Protection Engineering from the University of Maryland. His expertise spans batteries, water-based fire protection systems, healthcare facilities, and fire extinguishers, with a focus on advancing fire safety through technical guidance and industry leadership.

Podcast Sponsor

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Burnaversaries, Reality TV, and the Story Behind Girls with Grafts

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 10:30:00 +0000

In this special episode of Girls with Grafts, hosts Amber Wilcox and Rachel Kudlak sit down for a light-hearted conversation! 💛 They share their personal burn survivor stories and the creation of Girl with Grafts. With their burnaversaries happening this week, they reflect on how far they’ve come and how they are celebrating—Rachel with a home-cooked meal today and Amber with an Easter Egg Hunt fundraiser in her local community later this month. 🐣

But it’s not all serious talk! The duo also catch up on their shared love of reality TV, including a deep dive into Traitors and what other binge-worthy shows have been keeping them entertained.

Join us for an episode filled with resilience, laughter, and a little reality TV obsession—because healing isn’t just about recovery, it’s about embracing joy, connection, and all of life’s moments. ✨

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlsWithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

#BurnSurvivor #Podcast #SurvivorPodcast #BurnSurvivorStories #Burnaversary

Meet Our Guests

Amber Wilcox is a burn survivor, yoga instructor, and marketing professional from Ormond Beach, Florida. After her kitchen accident in 2020, Amber faced burns on 20% of her body from a hot caramel spill. After two skin graft surgeries from Orlando Regional Burn Center, Amber experienced hypertrophic scarring and underwent a series of laser burn surgeries at Tampa General Hospital. As the RevOps Strategist for Impulse Creative, Amber helps drive the company's growth by operationalizing the experience throughout the customer lifecycle; from prospect to delight. When not marketing, Amber enjoys volunteering for Phoenix Society as a Phoenix SOAR Peer Supporter, teaching yoga for Kula for Karma supporting youth in Florida detention centers, or providing free yoga for peers on her website, yogaamber.com.

Rachel Kudlak is a burn survivor and marketing professional residing in Charleston, South Carolina. As the Marketing Lead, Rachel manages and leads Phoenix Society’s marketing and digital strategies. She develops online marketing tactics, creates dynamic content, and maintains consistent engagement across online platforms. Before joining Phoenix Society’s team, Rachel served as the Marketing and Communications Phoenix Fellow and worked in the SEO/ORM industry. When not working, Rachel enjoys going on walks with her dog Remy, trying a new recipe, or binge-watching reality tv.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Summit Fire & Security! Summit Fire & Security is your trusted partner for all your fire protection and life safety needs. From fire extinguishers and alarms to security systems, suppression solutions, and special hazard protection, Summit Fire & Security supports you at every stage—from design and installation to ongoing maintenance and inspections. Learn more by visiting www.summitfiresecurity.com.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Empowering Confidence Through Hair Restoration with Lee Hoff & Morgan Moore

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 21:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, we sit down with Lee Hoff and Morgan Moore, the dynamic duo behind Morgan & Moore Non-Surgical Hair Replacement and Inclusive Crowns, to discuss their mission to provide hope, healing, and holistic support through cranial prostheses and hair loss solutions. 💛 Lee and Morgan share the heartfelt inspiration behind their business and nonprofit, their journey in the world of hair restoration, and what makes a cranial prosthesis different from a standard wig.

We also explore the emotional healing and confidence their clients experience through personalized hair solutions, as well as their passionate advocacy for insurance coverage of cranial prostheses. 💇‍♀️ Tune in for valuable tips on navigating the insurance process and insights into their work in inclusivity and accessibility!

Ready to take the next step toward confidence and healing? ✨ Morgan & Moore Non-Surgical Hair Replacement offers free consultations and complimentary insurance verification to help you navigate the process of getting a cranial prosthesis covered. Visit www.morganandmoorenhr.com to get connected today!

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlsWithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guests

Lee Hoff and Morgan Moore are the Founders of Morgan & Moore Non-Surgical Hair Replacement and Inclusive Crowns

Lee Hoff, a Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of oncology experience and a certified Trichologist, and Morgan Moore, a licensed cosmetologist and hair loss expert, co-founded Morgan & Moore Non-Surgical Hair Replacement and Inclusive Crowns, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, to support women affected by alopecia. Their mission is inspired by a shared faith and a heartfelt understanding of the emotional and mental toll hair loss can have.

Motivated by the belief that restoring normalcy and confidence is as vital as any other form of healing, Lee and Morgan work to provide cranial prostheses that help women feel like themselves again. They also advocate for increased awareness and insurance coverage, ensuring these medical wigs are recognized as essential prosthetics and accessible to all who need them.

Links

Visit Morgan & Moore’s website: https://www.morganandmoorenhr.com
Learn more about Morgan & Moore’s nonprofit, Inclusive Crowns: https://inclusivecrowns.org
For more information on the National Alopecia Areata Foundation and Bill HR 4034, please email gary@naaf.org.
Inclusive Crowns is a 501c3 nonprofit organization and donations will go to free custom human hair cranial prostheses for women in need (on average $1500-$2000 per unit), advocacy efforts, our CultivateHER training program, and innovation! Donate at: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LSUV79PAYXCNC
Learn more about their Financial Assistance Application: https://inclusivecrowns.org/financial-assistance/

Podcast Sponsor

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Fueling Recovery: Hypermetabolism & Nutrition with Dr. Victoria Miles

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 20:30:00 +0000

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, we sit down with Dr. Victoria Miles to explore the fascinating and complex world of hypermetabolism—the body's heightened metabolic response after a burn injury. 🚑 Dr. Miles, who started her career as a paramedic, shares how her experience in emergency medicine shaped her approach to burn care and patient recovery.

We dive into nutrition's critical role in healing, including how the entire burn care team—dietitians, therapists, and more—works together to meet patients' nutritional needs. 🍎 Dr. Miles also breaks down the science behind protein shakes, the latest research she's working on, and what it's like working with her husband, a trauma surgeon.

This episode is packed with valuable insights on how proper nutrition fuels recovery! 💪

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using #GirlsWithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Dr. Victoria Miles is an Assistant Professor of Burn Surgery at University Medical Center New Orleans in association with Louisiana State University Health Science Center New Orleans. She was born and raised in South Mississippi. While completing college and medical school, Dr. Miles worked full-time as an EMT-Paramedic in Hazelhurst, Mississippi. She continues to serve as an adjunct instructor for the Holmes Community College Critical Care Paramedic program. Dr. Miles graduated from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine and completed her general surgery residency and research years at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine Chattanooga. Dr. Miles then completed her Surgical Critical Care and Burn Surgery Fellowship at University of Texas Southwestern, Parkland Hospital, in Dallas where she received the Top Knife Award for Best Fellow Technical Skills. Her research interests include military and EMS burn education, burn hypermetabolism and nutrition, limb salvage, and acute burn resuscitation and coagulopathy. Dr. Miles directs the American Burn Association Mentorship Program and serves on the American Burn Association's Reconstruction and Membership Advisory Committees. In addition, Dr. Miles was elected to the International Society of Burn Injuries' Burn Care Committee and International Burn Center Assessment Team. She is a scientific reviewer for the Journal of Burn Care and Research and the American Journal of Surgery. An early career burn surgeon, Dr. Miles has authored over 35 publications, given over 20 national podium presentations, and authored a book chapter. In her free time, Dr. Miles enjoying traveling with her husband, Dr. Daniel Miles, who is an Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon for Tulane University in New Orleans.

Podcast Sponsor

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Healing Through Touch with Burn Survivor & Massage Therapist Jen Hartley

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In our latest episode of Girls with Grafts, we sit down with burn survivor, massage therapist, and instructor Jen Hartley to explore the transformative power of touch in scar healing. Jen opens up about her personal burn injury and how it led her to a career in massage therapy. 💆 She shares insights into her massage therapy business, the different types of scars she works with, and the key differences between burn scar massage and traditional massage.

Beyond the physical benefits, Jen discusses the emotional healing that happens through massage, offering advice for caregivers who want to support their loved ones through touch. ✨ She also shares recommendations for oils and lotions that work best on survivor skin. Whether you’re a survivor, a caregiver, or simply curious about the healing power of massage, this episode is filled with valuable knowledge and inspiration!

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Jen Hartley is a burn survivor, author, massage therapist and massage therapy instructor.

Jen was born to a 16 year old mom and the trajectory of both their lives changed on May 30th, 1973. Jen’s mom was giving her a bath in the kitchen sink and left her unattended briefly to answer an emergency phone call. In her absence, Jen accidentally bumped the hot water faucet. It was later discovered that the hot water heater in the rental home was set at 180 degrees. She sustained 3rd degree burns over 56% of her body.

Jen Hartley developed Burn Scar Massage Therapy and has been passionately sharing her knowledge with therapists for 18 years. She is a 49 year survivor and is deeply rooted in the burn scar community. She has won CA AMTA Educator of the year and is a CA AMTA Community Service Award Recipient.

Podcast Sponsor

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Healing Hands: Pediatric Burn Care & Reconstructive Surgery with Dr. Shaun Mendenhall

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 17:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, Rachel and Amber sit down with Dr. Shaun Mendenhall, a board-certified hand and plastic surgeon specializing in pediatric burn care and reconstructive surgery. 🩺 Dr. Mendenhall shares his journey in burn care, balancing patient treatment, teaching, and research while advancing surgical techniques that transform lives.

Together, we explore the challenges of hand mobility and functionality, innovations in reconstructive surgery, and the critical role of caregivers and parents in a child's recovery. 💛 Rachel also opens up about her own experience as a pediatric burn survivor, leading to an important discussion on caring for amputations and the long-term impact of these life-changing procedures.

Whether you're a survivor, caregiver, or medical professional, this episode offers valuable insights into the impact of reconstructive surgery to regain function, confidence, and improved appearance! ✨

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Dr. Shaun D. Mendenhall, MD, is an Assistant Professor at the University of Utah's Department of Plastic Surgery. He specializes in pediatric hand and upper-extremity surgery, addressing conditions such as congenital differences, injuries, trauma, tumors, spasticity, limb loss, and paralysis. His expertise extends to microvascular reconstruction and the treatment of peripheral nerve conditions in both children and adults.

Dr. Mendenhall earned his medical degree with honors in surgery from the University of Utah School of Medicine. He completed his residency in Integrated Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, where he received multiple teaching awards and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha honor medical society. Pursuing his passion for hand surgery, he completed an Orthopaedic Hand and Microvascular Surgery fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine.

Throughout his career, Dr. Mendenhall has been recognized for his contributions to hand surgery. In 2018, he received the F. William Bora Jr., MD, Excellence in Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery Award. The following year, he was selected for the American Society for Surgery of the Hand's Young Leaders program. His research earned the Joseph H. Boyes Award in 2021 and the Outstanding Paper Award at the American Association for Surgery of the Hand annual meeting in 2023. Recently, he received the Service Excellence Award from the Healthnetwork Foundation for exemplary care of severely injured children.

Dr. Mendenhall's research interests include improving hand surgery techniques and outcomes, developing innovative solutions for common hand surgery problems, utilizing synthetic skin substitutes for soft tissue reconstruction, exploring hand transplantation, and studying the outcomes of partial hand prostheses. He is also dedicated to student and resident surgical education.

Podcast Sponsor

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

From Addiction to Advocacy: Crystal Raye’s LMFAO-Inspired Journey

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In this powerful episode of Girls with Grafts, Amber and Rachel sit down with Crystal Raye, a self-inflicted burn survivor, to explore her incredible journey of healing and growth. 🫶 Crystal opens up about her struggles with substance abuse, the importance of being honest with herself on the road to recovery, and turning pain into purpose.

Together, we dive into how Crystal found her tribe within the burn community, her unique LMFAO mantra, and the transformative power of owning her narrative. ✍️ We also chat about Crytstal's upcoming memoir and the many ways she continues to stay involved and give back to the burn community.

Tune in to hear Crystal Raye's inspiring story and the powerful lessons she shares about healing and embracing your truth!

➡️ If Crystal's story resonates with you, we invite survivors and caregivers to join our Special Topic Virtual Support Group on February 24, 2025, at 7 pm EST, where we'll dive deeper into the challenges of substance abuse and replacement addictions with Jerry and Diana Tenney-Laperriere. This is a safe space to connect, share, and support one another. Sign up today at: https://www.phoenix-society.org/what-we-do/virtual-support-group.

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Crystal Raye is a passionate advocate for the burn and visible difference communities, dedicated to empowering burn survivors and promoting resilience through her personal journey.

As a self inflicted flammable liquid burn survivor, she has transformed her pain into purpose, using her experiences to uplift others facing similar challenges.Crystal is also a peer support volunteer providing guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear to those navigating the emotional and physical aftermath of burn injuries.

She is also an aspiring author. Her upcoming book “The Burned, The Broken, & The Beautiful - A Memoir of Me,” shares her story of triumph and healing, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their own journey to find the beauty even through their darkest moments. With her authentic voice and unwavering commitment, Crystal Raye is a beacon of hope and a welcomed face to those struggling to navigate their many challenges after tragedy.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Jensen Hughes! Since 1939, Jensen Hughes has been a global leader in fire protection engineering and safety solutions. Jensen Hughes combines expert knowledge, innovative strategies, and groundbreaking research to help clients protect lives, property, and reputations—making the world a safer, more resilient place.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

From Burn Survivor to Beauty Queen: Danette Haag’s Story of Resilience

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the season six premiere of the Girls with Grafts podcast! This episode features an inspiring and heartfelt conversation with the incredible Danette Haag. 🩷 Burned at the age of 10, Danette opens up about her journey getting to where she is today, sharing how she internalized her pain and trauma while ultimately learning to love herself and embrace her beauty from within.

Danette's story is a testament to resilience and transformation. From becoming Mrs. Colorado to helping others on their journey as a mindset coach, she demonstrates the courage it takes to overcome adversity and redefine what it means to be beautiful. ✨

This episode is not just a story of survival but one of thriving—a perfect way to kick off the new season! 🎙️

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

#burnsurvivor #girlswithgrafts #podcast #survivorpodcast #burnsurvivorstories #selflove

Meet Our Guest

Danette Haag is an inspiring woman whose life is a testament to resilience, faith, and courage. Her expertise, as a speaker, author, and mindset coach, is rooted in her own powerful story of surviving a severe burn injury from a house explosion as a child and her journey of healing both inside and out.

Danette has been honored with the 2019 Woman of Courage Award in Colorado and proudly holds the prestigious title of Mrs. Colorado 2021. She is the first severely scarred woman to win a state beauty pageant title – she’s the first but hopes she’s not the last. Danette’s mission is clear: to inspire others to see their own incredible value by sharing all she has learned from walking with courage, healing her soul, and redefining her beauty. Danette is ‘Beauty From Ashes’ and believes no one needs to get stuck behind any life scar.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Buses by the Beach! Buses by the Beach is a community of VW bus enthusiasts based in West Michigan. They come together to camp, host amazing events, and raise funds to support Phoenix Society. And mark your calendars for the 2025 Bus Benefit, happening May 23rd-26th in Trufant, Michigan.

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Dressing Changes and Lifting Spirits: Burn Care Expertise from Cat Eustace

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 14:00:00 +0000

In our last episode of Season 6 of Girls with Grafts, Rachel and Amber sit down with Cat Eustace, a dedicated burn care professional and current Outpatient Burn Clinic Supervisor. We start our conversation by learning how Cat got involved in burn care and how her love for our community has developed over the years. 🏥❤️

Together, and thanks to today's podcast sponsor, Mölnlycke Health Care, we delve into the art and science of burn wound dressing changes, exploring best practices and innovations that make a difference in healing. 🩺 Cat also offers invaluable advice for preventing burnout in burn care, emphasizing the importance of self-care and support networks.

Whether you're a survivor, caregiver, or burn care professional, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspiring stories to empower and uplift. 🫶 Tune in to learn how Cat's expertise transforms the lives of those in the burn community!

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Catherine Eustace first worked in the music industry at a major record label. When her now husband was hit by a car and required surgery and full-time care during his recovery, she quit the music industry to take care of him. That resulted in changing careers to become a nurse.

After getting her BSN from the University of Miami, Catherine worked for years in the ER, then transitioned to Burn care 7 years ago. The Burn ICU was not in the plan, but after starting, she didn’t want to work anywhere else!

Over the last few years, she took over the Outpatient Burn Clinic and has enjoyed the transition. Getting to educate patients, working with burn patients of all ages, and doing community outreach as well.

She is married with two small children and lives in the Los Angeles suburbs with her family and 13-year-old terrier, Marshall.

Podcast Sponsor

Mölnlycke Health Care’s advanced wound care dressings are enabled by Safetac® technology, a gentle silicone adhesive that reduces pain and minimizes skin trauma of burn survivors at dressing change. For more information about burn care solutions, you can visit their website at https://www.molnlycke.us/solutions/burns/.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Emotional Scars and the Power of Support with Dr. Tam Pham

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 22:30:00 +0000

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, we’re honored to sit down with Dr. Tam Pham, the Program Director at the University of Washington Medicine Regional Burn Center. Dr. Pham opens up about his personal journey when he sustained a burn as a young child. Rachel and Dr. Pham discuss the topic of imposter syndrome among some burn survivors and caregivers, highlighting that while we may not all have physical scars, we do all carry emotional ones.

Dr. Pham also shares the critical role of aftercare and support services in helping survivors reclaim their lives and thrive beyond their injuries. He also reflects on his connection with Grace Athena Flott, a local artist, fellow survivor, and former patient, whose powerful artwork he proudly displays in their burn clinic.

This episode is a moving tribute to the resilience of the burn community, the power of support, and the art of turning pain into purpose. Don’t miss this inspiring and heartfelt conversation!

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Dr. Tam Pham is a highly accomplished surgeon specializing in burn and trauma care, with extensive academic and clinical experience. Currently, he is a professor and director of the University of Washington Medicine Regional Burn Center at Harborview Medical Center.

A graduate of the University of California, Dr. Pham pursued rigorous postgraduate training, including a General Surgery residency, and fellowships in burn care and surgical critical care at the University of Washington. His academic contributions are significant, with numerous published research papers, including studies on critical care and telemedicine applications in burn care.

Dr. Pham has also been honored with numerous awards and is dedicated to advancing burn care. He has volunteered internationally as well as holds board certifications and is a member of many professional organizations, including the American Burn Association.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by the National Fire Sprinkler Association! NFSA aims to protect lives and property through the advancement of fire sprinklers. Learn more about fire sprinklers, fire advocacy, and how to get involved by visiting nfsa.org.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

We Are All Capable with Clinical Counselor and Survivor, Alexi Pyles

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 13:00:00 +0000

In today's episode of Girls with Graft, we’re honored to feature Alexi Pyles—a burn survivor, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC). Alexi's journey began halfway around the world when she was just six months old, and her experiences have fueled a lifelong passion for helping others.

Join us as we dive into Alexi's career as a therapist, her invaluable advice for fellow survivors considering therapy, and her reflections on what it truly means to be "healed." We also explore her love for stunts and gymnastics, her expertise in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and how creativity plays a vital role in the healing process.

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Alexi Pyles is a child burn survivor. She was burned at six months old with second and third degree scald burns on her neck and chest. Alexi was abandoned by her parents shortly after the incident. She stayed in an orphanage until the age of two when she was adopted by a single parent mother who brought her back to the states. Alexi doesn't have any memories of her burns, other than what was told. She received extensive burn care from the ages of three to her teens. Due to the lack of immediate care, Alexi did not have the typical burn treatment like skin grafts, expanders, or spending time in a hyperbaric chamber. She had steroidal injections, pressure garments, stitching, and lasers.

Today, Alexi is a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC) and certified rehabilitation counselor (CRC) with a speciality in DBT therapy modality and trauma informed care. She has worked in many mental health settings including residential, IOP/PHP, hospital, and low acuity outpatient. She currently works for Kaiser Permanente as a psychiatric social worker focusing on their high acuity cases by connecting them to higher levels of care. During her free time, Alexi likes to do stunts and acting, gymnastics, going on hikes especially the beaches and anything creative.

Podcast Sponsor

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Building A Safer Future: A Conversation with Raj Arora, CEO of Jensen Hughes

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 21:30:00 +0000

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, host Rachel sits down with Raj Arora, CEO of Jensen Hughes, to delve into the inspiring new partnership between Jensen Hughes and the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. Raj begins by sharing his professional journey in the fire engineering industry and what drew him to this critical field. He also recounts his impactful first connection with the Phoenix Society, including a transformative experience at the Phoenix World Burn Congress, and how everything fell into place to bring about this meaningful collaboration.

Together, Rachel and Raj explore the shared mission of both organizations: to support burn survivors and promote a safer, more resilient world. They discuss the tangible ways this partnership aims to advance fire prevention and safety standards, as well as the powerful role community plays in recovery and empowerment.

Tune in to hear how Jensen Hughes and the Phoenix Society are coming together to make a lasting difference for burn survivors and set a new standard for fire safety!

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

As CEO of Jensen Hughes, a global market leader, Raj Arora guides the company’s rapid expansion while ensuring a steadfast commitment to technical excellence and exceptional client service. Through his leadership, he has transformed the company culture, helping to accelerate growth and inspire its 1,700+ engineers, consultants, data scientists and functional experts to develop and deliver innovative solutions that make our world safe, secure and resilient.

Throughout his two decades in the fire, security and risk engineering industry, Raj has built a reputation as a skilled engineer and a strategic business leader with a passion for fostering a positive organizational culture. Earlier in his career, Raj held leadership positions as Vice President and General Manager of Johnson Controls’ $1 billion Fire Detection and Special Hazard Product division, headquartered in Switzerland. As an equity partner at Arora Engineers, he helped catapult the firm from a small operation to an industry leader in MEP Engineering within the aviation and rail industries.

Raj is a licensed Professional Engineer and holds a Bachelor of Science in Fire Protection Engineering from the University of Maryland. Over the course of his career, he’s received multiple awards, including Consulting-Specifying Engineer’s Top 40 Under 40 honor and Early Career and Distinguished Alumni awards from his alma mater. Moreover, he was recognized at Tyco with prestigious performance awards for accountability, teamwork and technical acumen. He currently serves as a board director for the National Fire Protection Association.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Jensen Hughes! Jensen Hughes has been a global leader in fire protection engineering since 1939. Their diverse team of more than 1,700 engineers, scientists, and consultants tackles complex risk, safety, and security challenges, helping clients protect lives, property, and reputations. Together, they blend expert knowledge, innovative solutions, and cutting-edge research to make the world safe, secure, and resilient. Learn more by visiting www.jensenhughes.com.

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Holding on to Faith, Leaning on Family With Kimaree Lewis, a Mother of a Burn Survivor

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 21:00:00 +0000

In this heartfelt episode, Rachel and Amber sit down with Kimaree Lewis, the resilient mother of a burn survivor, to hear her powerful story of navigating trauma, healing, and hope. Kimaree opens up about the day her family's life changed forever, her son and family's emotional and physical challenges, and how her family's faith got them through the toughest times.

Join us as Kimaree shares insights on caring for her family and also herself, how giving back as a Phoenix SOAR Peer Supporter has impacted both her and her son, and her advice for other caregivers. Tune in to hear how one mother's journey can offer hope to anyone facing life's most challenging moments.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Kimaree Lewis is the mother of five children and the wife to an awesome husband. She is a Human Resources Manager and in 2024, she received the Human Resources Professional of the year. Kimaree lives by the motto: “Lead others to look up to the person they see in the mirror.” She wants to help others create a reflection that they are proud of and a shadow they don't mind lurking behind them. Helping people is her passion and she feels full and accomplished when she knows she’s helped better another's situation or circumstance.

Podcast Sponsor

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Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Honoring the First World Burns Week on a Global Scale

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 21:00:00 +0000

It's World Burns Week, and today's podcast episode features a special takeover by Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors' CEO, Amy Acton! Amy, who has been actively representing the organization on the World Burns Week steering committee, welcomes two incredible guests from Nigeria: Dr. Onuh and Patience. Dr. Onuh is a passionate and skilled surgeon dedicated to advancing burn care, while Patience is a courageous burn survivor eager to share her story.

World Burns Week envisions a future where burns are prevented and everyone—no matter their location, income, gender, age, or ability—has access to timely and effective care. In this inspiring episode, Dr. Onuh and Patience discuss the realities of burn care in Nigeria and survivors' unique challenges in achieving equitable treatment. As a special surprise, Patience's role model, Kechi, joins the conversation, creating a heartfelt and unforgettable moment.

Listen in today to learn more about World Burns Week and discover ways to get involved in the global movement to reduce inequality in burn care and support survivors worldwide!

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guests

Dr. Onuh is a dedicated burn, plastic, and reconstructive surgeon from Nigeria with a passion for burn care. She advocates for multidisciplinary burn care and is actively involved in managing burn patients. Dr. Onuh is also committed to research, education, and prevention to reduce the burden of burns in her country. Through her work, she aims to improve outcomes for burn patients, burn survivors and advance the field of burn care. Patience is also from Nigeria and sustained a burn injury not that long ago.

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Exercise is a Medicine with Physical Therapist and Rehabilitation Researcher, Ingrid Parry

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, Amber, and Rachel are joined by the incredible Ingrid Parry, a passionate physical therapist and rehabilitation researcher with years of experience supporting burn survivors on their recovery journey. Ingrid's unique perspective, gained from her extensive research and leadership roles, adds a valuable dimension to our discussion.

Together, we explore physical therapy's vital role in burn recovery, the importance of exercise and movement, and the benefits of yoga. Ingrid also shares insights from her numerous research projects, her work with Cutaneous Functional Units (CFUs), and her time as president of the American Burn Association (ABA).

Tune in for practical insights, inspiration, and tips on integrating movement into your burn recovery!

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Ingrid Parry MS, PT, BT-C, PhD candidate, is a Physical Therapist and a Rehabilitation Researcher at Shriners Hospitals for Children, Northern California, and the University of California, Davis. She has worked in burn care for 29 years. Her study interests are diverse within burn rehabilitation and include facial scar management, cutaneous functional units, burn scar contracture, pediatric burn rehabilitation, and early exercise with burn survivors. In 2022-23, she was named president of the American Burn Association as the first non-surgeon to lead the organization. She has published over 53 peer-reviewed publications and volunteers extensively with various domestic and international burn organizations. She is presently working on her Ph.D. at the University of California, Davis, School of Nursing and Healthcare Leadership with a focus on using cutaneous functional units to predict contracture risk. In her free time, Ingrid enjoys yoga, dancing, paddleboarding and loves to travel with her husband and three sons.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Buses by the Beach! Buses by the Beach is a group of VW bus lovers, based in West Michigan. They camp, host events, and raise funds for Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. Learn more about them and save the dates for their 2025 events by visiting https://busesbythebeach.org/.

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Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

A Fire Prevention Week Special: Commercial Fire Safety 101 with Steve Rice from Summit Fire & Security

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 14:00:00 +0000

In this special Girls with Graft episode, we’re spotlighting Fire Prevention Week with Phoenix Partner Summit Fire & Security! Rachel sits down with Steve Rice, a seasoned expert with years of experience as the Operations Manager of the Installation Department at Summit Fire & Security, to discuss all things commercial fire safety.

Steve shares practical information on how Summit Fire & Security works with commercial spaces to design, install, and maintain fire systems. He provides valuable insights on prevention systems, the importance of routine safety checks, and what you need to know to stay safe in commercial spaces. Whether at work, staying at a hotel, or going out to eat, this episode equips you with critical information to help you be prepared and protect what matters most.

Fire Prevention Week 2024

This year’s FPW campaign, “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!™” strives to educate everyone about the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home. Learn more about FPW and how to keep you and your family safe by visiting: https://www.nfpa.org/events/fire-prevention-week

🔗 Looking for links? Check out our show’s description on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

With a robust 22-year tenure in the fire protection industry, Steve Rice brings a wealth of experience to the table. Currently serving as the Operations Manager of the Installation Department at Summit Fire & Security in Cleveland, Ohio, he has been instrumental in overseeing all installs and major repairs in Northern Ohio since 2005. Previously, he worked as a fire protection systems installer for Custom Engineered Fire Systems in Willoughby, Ohio.

Steve holds many specialized trainings and certifications such as NICET III Special Hazard Suppression Systems, NICET III Fire Alarm Systems, OSHA 30 Safety Trained, Previously Wind Energy Competent Climber Certified, Vice Chair of the Installers Division for the FSSA (Fire Suppression Systems Association)(Previously the Program Committee Chair for five years), Committee Member of the NFPA 409, 415 and 423 - Standards on Aircraft Hangars, Manufacturer Training from many companies such as Notifier, Ansul, Firetrace, Kidde, Minimax, Janus, and Hochiki.

Podcast Sponsor

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Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

The Anatomy of a Burn Injury Case with Jason Nelson and Matt Cunningham

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 20:00:00 +0000

In today's episode, Rachel and Amber sit down with burn survivor Jason Nelson and experienced burn injury attorney Matt Cunningham to explore the complexities of navigating a burn injury legal case.

Jason shares his inspiring story of resilience and recovery, showcasing firsthand how you can turn a tragedy into triumph. Matt provides expert legal insight, breaking down the anatomy of a burn injury lawsuit—from the importance of contacting an attorney quickly and assessing damages to the critical steps in building a strong case.

Together, they shed light on the challenges survivors and families face and how the legal system can offer a lifetime of support. Tune in to learn about the intersection of personal experience and legal expertise in burn injury cases and how justice can help rebuild lives.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guests

Matt Cunningham is a trial attorney who has been handling burn injury cases for over 25 years. He is recognized as one of the top burn injury lawyers in the United States. He is the owner and President of the Cunningham Law Firm which is recognized as America’s top burn injury law firm.

Since 1996, Matt and the Cunningham Law Firm have represented over 124 clients involving burn related injuries. Matt is a member of the National Fire Protection Association, American Burn Association, Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, and previously a guest speaker at the North American Burn Society. During his career he has obtained some of the highest verdicts and settlements involving burn related injuries. In 2008 he obtained the highest burn injury verdict in Arizona state history.

Matt and the Cunningham Law Firm are recognized as true advocates on behalf of burn survivors, their families, and generously supports the work of burn foundations across the United States. Matt is recognized as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers Association, Best Lawyers of America, Elite Lawyers of America, Arizona’s Finest Lawyers, and Southwest Super Lawyers.

Dr. Kevin Foster, Director of the Arizona Burn Center, stated about Matt, “Matt Cunningham has earned the respect of the burn community through his hard work, compassion, and deep understanding of the true impact of burn injuries.” Matt is honored to be a part of the burn community and a champion of justice for burn survivors and their families.

Jason Nelson, a Phoenix, Arizona native, experienced a life-altering event on February 9, 2014. A natural gas explosion in a rental home he owned left him with a staggering 80% Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) burn. The trauma was immense, but Jason's resilience shone through.

After enduring countless surgeries, enduring grueling therapy sessions, and navigating the long road to recovery, Jason found a purpose beyond his own healing. Driven by a deep-seated desire to give back to the organizations and individuals who supported him through his ordeal, he dedicated his life to advocating for burn survivors.

Jason's involvement with the Arizona Burn Foundation is a testament to his commitment. As a member of the Board of Directors, he actively contributes to shaping the foundation's mission and strategies. His personal experience provides invaluable insights into the unique challenges faced by burn survivors, enabling him to advocate for programs and initiatives that address their needs effectively.

Moreover, Jason's fundraising efforts have been instrumental in generating over a million dollars to support burn survivors' journeys. His passion and dedication have inspired others to contribute to this worthy cause, ensuring that burn victims receive the necessary resources to thrive.

Jason Nelson's story is a powerful reminder of the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. His unwavering commitment to helping others recover from the devastating impact of burns serves as an inspiration to countless individuals. Through his tireless efforts, he continues to make a significant difference in the lives of burn survivors, transforming their experiences from tragedy to triumph.

Podcast Sponsor

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Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

We Can Do Hard Things with Medley Zeigler Bokun

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 15:30:00 +0000

Medley Zeigler Bokun and her husband, Kevin, were just three weeks into their marriage when tragedy struck, and they were both involved in a home gas explosion. The two newlyweds found themselves spending what typically is considered the "honeymoon phase" in the ICU.

In today's podcast episode, Medley joins Rachel and Amber to talk about her burn injury, the struggles she faced after going home from the hospital, and how she and Kevin navigated their journeys with their unwavering family and friends by their side. ❤️ We also chat about motherhood and fears Medley had before having her son Levi, the common struggle of overheating, and the fantastic drink Body Armor.

Tune in today to see how Medley truly embodies the word resilient!

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Medley Zeigler Bokun, BSN, RN graduated from nursing school at Southeastern Louisiana University at the end of 2017 and immediately began her career at a Women’s Hospital in Baton Rouge, LA working as a med-surg and oncology nurse. In June of 2019 she married her wonderful husband, who at the time was a third year medical student. Just three short weeks after their wedding, they were in a gas explosion in their home. It was nearly fatal for both of them, but Medley especially sustained second, but mostly third degree burns across 96% of her body. Her chance of survival was not high, but God had other plans. Now Medley and her husband, Kevin, feel that God has called them from a place of medical ministry to a ministry that’s focused on spiritual and emotional healing. Medley and her husband now travel and speak at conferences, churches and social gatherings sharing their story of survival. And most recently in February of 2024, they welcomed their first baby into the world, a sweet baby boy named Levi.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Exsurco Medical! Exsurco engineers high precision products for both the healthcare and tissue bank professionals and are dedicated to advancing the healing power of skin to patients who need it the most. Learn more at www.Exsurco.com.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

No Hands? No Problem! How to Live Life to the Fullest with Samoana Matagi

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 16:30:00 +0000

What's something that rhymes with no-handed? Bandit!

In today's podcast episode, podcast hosts Rachel and Amber are joined by Samoana Matagi, better known as the No-Handed Bandit. Sam talks about the high-voltage electrical accident that caused him to lose both arms and how the No-Handed Bandit was born. We also chat about Sam's first time through a toll booth, his recent encounter with a moose, his experiences wakeboarding, and the power of peer support. Tune in today!

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Samoana Matagi earned a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism in 2004. After two years in the field of Broadcast Journalism, he changed career paths to a high-voltage electrical line worker. Three years into his apprenticeship, he was involved in an electrical work accident that cost him his hands. He then became critically acclaimed for his recovery story, which drove him to create a YouTube channel to help other amputees. Now, he speaks to audiences about resilience. Learn more at www.nohandedbandit.com or by connecting with him on YouTube, Facebook, or Instagram.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by UL Solutions! A global leader in applied safety science, UL Solutions transforms safety, security and sustainability challenges into opportunities for customers in more than 110 countries.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Turning Pain into Passion: The Drive Behind a Survivor’s Giving Spirit with Michael Van Every

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 17:30:00 +0000

Play and work with joy is a mantra Michael Van Every lives by. In today's episode, Rachel and Amber are joined by Michael, who was injured in a house fire as a child. Growing up, Michael knew he was different from his peers but never let that stop him. Over time, he found his own voice through playing sports, from the support of his parents, and believing in himself.

Now, Michael is the President and Managing Partner of Republic Urban Properties and is deeply committed to giving back. His journey has led him to reconnect with the Regional Burn Center at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, where he was once a patient. Through fundraising events and advocacy efforts, Michael is dedicated to helping survivors overcome their emotional and mental battles. His unwavering dedication is a moving testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit.

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Michael Van Every is the President and Managing Partner of Republic Urban Properties, the Bay Area flagships of the Republic Family of Companies. Mr. Van Every works with Federal, State and Local governments on the creation and development of ‘smart growth’ projects, such as master-planned communities near transportation hubs; urban mixed-use projects near major employment centers; and innovative, public-private partnerships. The Republic Family of Companies is known for developing institutional-quality real estate throughout the United States, from land development, to historic adaptive reuse to shopping malls.

In his 25 years of working experience representing major institutional and private real estate developers in the greater Bay Area, Van Every has earned the reputation as a man with the leadership, the knowledge, the experience, and tenacity to see complicated projects through from land acquisition to completion. Under Van Every’s leadership, RUP has gained national attention for its Transit Orientated Development (TOD) projects at key transit stations working as the premier public-private partner with many transit authorities across California.

Since 2006, as the managing partner of RUP, Van Every has been involved with the planning, financing, construction and delivery of 1,238 multifamily units and 145,000 square feet of mixed-use commercial space. In addition to the multifamily pipeline, RUP has approximately 380 hotels rooms, 151,000 square feet of office, and 120,000 square feet of retail in various stages of development. The estimated hypothetical market value among projects is projected at $1.5 billion in value.

A third-generation San Jose native, Van Every holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from California State University at Fresno. Van Every is an active member of the Silicon Valley Leadership Group, and he serves as a Board Member on San Jose Stage Company. Michael is married and lives with his wife Jennifer and Jacob in the Willow Glen Neighborhood of San Jose.

Podcast Sponsor

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Catching Up with Burn Survivor & America's Got Talent Finalist, Kechi Okwuchi

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 21:00:00 +0000

Kechi Okwuchi, a living example of resilience, faced a life-altering plane crash that left her with burns over 65% of her body. However, Kechi's story is not one of despair, but of hope and positivity.

During our live episode, Amber and Rachel caught up with Kechi and learned more about her America's Got Talent experience (including who her favorite judge is!), and what's next with her singing career. Kechi also shared her experience writing a book and tips for others who want to share their story. We closed the episode by talking about how Kechi keeps it real on social media and how she handles negative comments.

⭐️ Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Kechi is a Nigerian-born author and powerful singer. She is an inspirational and TEDx keynote speaker, MBA student, and bullying prevention advocate. Her dramatic story, as well as her impactful messages of resiliency and overcoming combine powerfully to inspire personal and cultural transformation.

Kechi found her true voice after her accident- a plane crash that took the lives of 107 of 109 passengers in Nigeria in 2005. Throughout the difficult journey of burns recovery, Kechi was sustained by her Christian faith, her family and her music. She resumed high school in 2009 and in 2015 she graduated First Class from University of St. Thomas, Houston, with a Bachelors in Economics.

Becoming a finalist on America’s Got Talent 2017 was Kechi’s truest dream realized, and on June 10th 2018, she released her debut single, ‘Don’t You Dare’ on all digital music platforms. She became a burn survivor advocate for multiple organizations, including the hospital she herself was treated at- Shriners Burns Hospitals for Children- now Shriners Children’s TX- Galveston, Texas.

In 2019, Kechi became a finalist on the premiere season of America’s Got Talent: The Champions through Simon Cowell’s golden buzzer. Since then, she has become an active ambassador for multiple organizations such as WEMovement, Be Strong Global and the United Nations Foundation #TOGETHERBAND project, advocating for various global causes such as youth empowerment, bullying prevention advocacy, and sustainable living.

Kechi’s memoir ‘More Than My Scars’ released on March 29th, 2022 under Baker Publishing Group, and her self-titled debut album is currently streaming on all digital music platforms. Kechi hopes to use her voice and her story to ignite hope all over the world within those that need it.

Podcast Sponsor

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Becoming an Advocate & Ally for the Burn Community with Diana Tinney

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000

We say it all the time: nothing heals survivors like other survivors. In today's podcast episode, Diana Tinney joins us again to discuss research, advocacy, and helping other survivors. Diana shares how she got involved with research, sheds light on common survivor struggles with nutrition, and opens up about overcoming addiction.

Upon her return from the hospital, Diana found solace in peer support visits, a transformative experience that underscored the healing power of survivors sharing their stories. This realization, coupled with her proactive curiosity, connection with the local burn care team, and the strength of peer support, propelled Diana into the realm of research and advocacy for the burn community. Over the years, she has actively participated in various research studies, including the recent CLIMB study. Her active involvement in these initiatives, irrespective of the research project or advocacy issue, has always been driven by her goal to enhance the lives of future survivors.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

In 2010 at the age of 54, Diana Tenney was burned 94% of her body, which consisted of mostly third degree burns. Dianna spent over a year recovering from her injury in the hospital and then went on to have reconstructive surgeries for the next seven years.

She has spent most of the last 10+ years working with other burn survivors and medical researchers. She is the past president, secretary, and treasures of Burn Survivors of New England, co-coordinator of Knowledge Translation for the Boston-Harvard Burn Model Systems, trained Phoenix Society peer supporter, previous speaker with the American Burn Association, former Wellness Room Leader at Phoenix World Burn Congress, and so much more. She is extremely active in burn research and advocacy. Diana has also been sober for many years and is active in AA.

Diana married her sweetheart, Jerry, in 2023 and has currently relocated with her husband, dog Barney, and cat Pebbles, to Tennessee to help care for her mother. Additionally, Diana is very physically active and participates in ZUMBA and yoga.

Podcast Sponsor

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Meet the Girls Behind Girls with Grafts

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 16:45:00 +0000

We're kicking off Season 5 of Girls with Grafts with a fun Q&A with your hosts, Rachel Kudlak and Amber Wilcox! Rachel and Amber start today's podcast by sharing their burn survivor stories, how they're doing now, and how they got connected with Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. They also chat about their love of reality TV before running through ten rapid-fire questions. Whether you are an OG listener or a new fan, you're bound to learn something new about the girls behind Girls with Grafts!

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guests

Amber Wilcox is a burn survivor, yoga instructor, and marketing professional from Ormond Beach, Florida. After her kitchen accident in 2020, Amber faced burns on 20% of her body from a hot caramel spill. After two skin graft surgeries from Orlando Regional Burn Center, Amber experienced hypertrophic scarring and underwent a series of laser burn surgeries at Tampa General Hospital. As the Solutions Marketing Manager at United Rentals, Amber helps drive the company's growth by operationalizing the experience throughout the customer lifecycle; from prospect to delight. When not marketing, Amber enjoys volunteering for Phoenix Society as a Phoenix SOAR Peer Supporter, teaching yoga for Kula for Karma supporting youth in Florida detention centers, or providing free yoga for peers on her website, yogaamber.com.

Rachel Kudlak is a burn survivor and marketing professional residing in Charleston, South Carolina. As the Marketing Lead, Rachel manages and executes Phoenix Society’s marketing and digital strategies. She develops online marketing tactics, creates dynamic content, and maintains consistent engagement across online platforms. Before joining Phoenix Society’s team, Rachel served as the Marketing and Communications Phoenix Fellow and worked in the SEO/ORM industry. When not working, Rachel enjoys going on walks with her dog Remy, trying a new recipe, or binge-watching reality tv.

Podcast Sponsor

Ad: Today’s podcast is powered by Gropper & Nejat! Gropper & Nejat is a personal injury firm with offices in New York and New Jersey. They take pride in fighting to achieve the best results for those who have suffered fractures, surgeries, amputations, severe burns and other injuries.

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Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Living Life with Intent with Burn Survivor, Actor, and Author J.R. Martinez

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 18:56:52 +0000

In our final episode of Season 4 of Girls with Grafts, Rachel and Amber are joined by survivor, actor, and author J.R. Martinez. If you don't know J.R., you'll learn quickly that he is full of energy and living his best life post-burn injury – but that doesn't mean he hasn't had challenges along the way.

As humans, we often underestimate our potential, see limitations, and settle for less than we truly deserve. But setting daily intentions is a powerful tool that allows you to shift your focus from doubt to your inherent abilities, empowering you to believe in yourself and strive for more.

In this episode, we have a candid conversation with J.R. Martinez about his journey of living life with intent after a burn injury. We delve into his experiences with the grieving process, his journey to feeling confident and comfortable in his new skin, and the common concerns burn survivors face. We also touch on the pros and cons of ongoing medical procedures and the importance of decompressing and living in the moment.

Living with intent is not about grand gestures but the consistent effort to achieve something greater each day, even if it's just a tiny step. This approach can lead to significant personal growth and transformation, offering hope and encouragement on your journey.

Meet Our Guest

J.R. Martinez is an Army veteran, burn survivor, actor, motivational speaker, New York Times best-selling author, Dancing with the Stars season 13 winner, and former Phoenix World Burn Congress emcee. J.R has traveled the world speaking with troops at various bases, as well as serving as keynote speaker for numerous major corporate events, non-profits, universities and Fortune 500 companies. J.R. devotes himself to spreading his message of resilience and optimism.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by YOU! Phoenix Society is 67% funded by donor support – that means we can’t do this work without our community. We just launched a Friends of Phoenix Campaign and encourage you to help generate additional support for our mission by creating your own fundraising page. You can learn more at www.phoenix-society.org/friends.

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Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Shaping the Future of Burn Care Research and Making the Little Things Count with Burn and Trauma Surgeon, Dr. Callie Thompson

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 12:00:00 +0000

If you’re subscribed to Phoenix Society’s mailing list, you’ve most likely received at least one email asking you to partake in a burn care research study. As survivors, our stories and voices are crucial in providing true lived experience on the physical, emotional, and social recovery after a burn injury. However, most studies simply ask survivors to complete a survey - and once the survey is complete, the outcomes are hard to find or even harder to understand. But Dr. Callie Thompson is on a mission to change that.

In today’s episode, Burn and Trauma Surgeon, Dr. Callie Thompson, talks about her recent burn care studies and how she involves survivors from start to finish. She also discusses why involvement throughout the entire research process is important, what factors make a “good” research project, and how other researchers can follow a similar format. Dr. Thompson also shares insight on her role as a surgeon and her passion for helping survivors thrive after a burn injury.

Looking for links? Check out our show’s description on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Dr. Callie Thompson is a burn and trauma surgeon by training. She specializes in the care of the thermally injured patient and other skin and soft tissue diseases that require surgical intervention. Her research is focused on implementing changes to care delivery that improve patient-centered outcomes for burn survivors and engaging burn patients as equitable partners in the entire research process.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by the D.C. Firefighters Burn Foundation. The D.C. Firefighters Burn Foundation is dedicated to assisting in the recovery and rehabilitation of injured firefighters and burn survivors. Learn more by visiting www.dcffburnfoundation.org.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

There is Hope in Hair: Hair Prosthetics are Transforming the Lives of Survivors

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 20:25:00 +0000

A burn injury often changes how we feel about ourselves, and for survivors who lose their hair, their whole identity can feel different. The emotional impact of hair loss is significant, and it's a journey that many survivors can relate to. When a survivor does experience hair loss, they usually turn to wigs as a solution to help them feel like themselves again—however, wigs are not the only option anymore!

In today’s episode, Amber and Rachel are joined by non-surgical hair replacement specialist Emily Gutierrez. Emily, with her deep empathy and dedication, shares insights on what hair prosthetics are, the process for installing and maintaining a prosthetic, and who would benefit from them. She also recounts her touching experience working with a young burn survivor, highlighting her passion for instilling hope and restoring confidence through hair for those experiencing hair loss.

Looking for links? Check out our show’s description on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Emily Gutierrez is a licensed cosmetologist and IAT certified trichologist. She is the owner of Advanced Hair Loss & Scalp Solutions LLC, a certified hair replacement brand who caters to those who have been impacted by hair loss. Emily and her team work with men, women, and children who have been affected by genetic and traumatic types of hair loss. They utilize modern technology to help prevent hair loss, reverse scalp disorders, and restore one's appearance while building a long-lasting relationship with the clients.

Podcast Sponsor

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

A Caregiver’s Guide to Burn Camps with Two IABC Board Members, Daniel Chacon and Kristen Quinn

Tue, 21 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Summer is quickly approaching, which means summer camps are in full swing! Summer camp is usually an extremely positive and beneficial experience for any child - but for burn survivor children, camp offers more than just fun. It provides a supportive community where they can share feelings and experiences with other children who have experienced similar trauma, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding.

In this episode, Rachel is joined by two esteemed guests, Daniel Chacon and Kristen Quinn. Both are renowned burn camp experts and board members of the International Association of Burn Camps (IABC). They delve into the benefits of burn camps, offer valuable tips on preparing your children (and yourself as a caregiver!), and guide you on selecting the right camp. Rachel and her guests also share cherished camp memories and ways to keep the 'camp magic' alive long after camp ends.

Looking for links? Check out our show’s description on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guests

Kristen Quinn has been a passionate advocate for burn survivors and meaningful aftercare programs since 1993. She started her career as a burn center Child Life Specialist, earned her Masters in professional counseling in 2000 and spent the next 24 years as a mental health clinician at the burn center, with aftercare and burn camp as her focus. Kristen believes that every interaction, activity and discussion at camp has the ability to foster emotional growth and that camp provides challenges that allow campers to push beyond perceived limitations.

Kristen has two children who are now forging their own lives as young adults. She has been married to a fire fighter for the past 30 years. There is always at least one dog in the house. Joy is found on rivers, hiking trails, in a good book or over a great meal. Friendships mean the world to Kristen.

Daniel Chacon is the Executive Director of the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation, a California-based nonprofit organization that is committed to preventing burns and fires, and providing services to those who have been affected by burn injuries. Before joining AARBF, Daniel worked as an emergency dispatcher, firefighter, and high school teacher.

Daniel is a proud member of various organizations such as the American Burn Association, the American Camp Association, and the International Association of Burn Camps, where he served on the board of directors in 2016 and was the immediate past president. He is passionate about discovering outcome measurements and has partnered on numerous research studies for burn survivors. He has also presented dozens of conferences throughout the United States.

Podcast Sponsor

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

From Hiding to Highlighting with Birthmark Advocate, Model, and the Face Behind “The Flawless Affect,” Paige Lauren Billiot

Tue, 14 May 2024 19:20:00 +0000

After years of hiding a prominent birthmark on her face, Paige Lauren Billiot now proudly highlights her facial difference. She was born with a port-wine stain birthmark on her face, ear, and neck, and now hopes to inspire others to embrace their imperfections.

Paige Lauren Billiot is Face Equality’s newest ambassador and in honor of Face Equality Week, we invited her on the podcast to talk about using art and creativity as a tool for social change! This year's theme is #MyFaceIsAMasterpiece, but we're taking it further and celebrating all visible and hidden differences with #MyBodyIsAMasterpiece.

Rachel and Paige talk about the challenges growing up with visible differences, how to craft a spicy response when strangers ask rude questions, and how to embrace our flaws (hey, we all have them!). Paige also shares how she started her Instagram, The Flawless Affect, her experiences working in Hollywood, and what advocacy projects she has in the works (including a doll with visible differences!).

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Paige Lauren Billiot is a birthmark advocate, model, and producer from Seattle, WA. Growing up in Las Vegas she began pursing her love for acting as a theatre major at Las Vegas Academy of Performing Arts & International Studies. In 2014 she moved to Hollywood to create representation in the film and beauty industry for others who looked like her, facing industry resistance to her unique diversity. Undeterred, Paige carved her path on Instagram, using makeup, props, and VFX to celebrate her birthmark as her Superpower.

Her influence has been recognized in many magazines including Seventeen, Glamour, and Women's Health, earning her a spot on Glamour's "50 Instagrammers You Need To Follow Right Now."

When she isn’t advocating for the birthmark community, she loves taking her four cats on walks in their strollers, while expanding her chai tea latte palate and Scooby Doo collection.

Podcast Sponsor

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Advancing the World of Burn Care Nursing on National Nurses Day with Emily Werthman, PhD(c), BA, RN, CBRN

Tue, 07 May 2024 12:30:00 +0000

Most burn survivors and caregivers can remember a special burn nurse who truly impacted and changed the trajectory of their healing journey. In honor of National Nurses Day, we’re celebrating all of the wonderful burn care professionals with Emily Werthman, Ph. D. (c), BA, RN, CBRN!

After losing her mother to a house fire, Emily was drawn to burn care and began her career as a bedside nurse. Over the past 10+ years, she has advanced her career and now holds many positions within the field, including burn program coordinator at the Johns Hopkins Burn Center.

In this episode, we talk with Emily about the trauma, compassion fatigue, burnout burn care nurses face, the recently launched burn nursing specialty certification (CBRN), and research projects involving acute burn pain and childhood adversity. Tune in to hear more about the advancements in burn care nursing!

Looking for links? Check out our show’s description on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Emily Werthman is the burn program coordinator of the Johns Hopkins Burn Center, where she has been a nurse since 2012. A graduate of the Allegany College nursing program, she also holds a BA in History from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, as well as a BSN and MSN from the University of Notre Dame of Maryland. She is a PhD candidate at the University of Maryland where she studies the relationship between acute burn pain and childhood adversity. Emily is the lead nurse planner for the American Burn Association where she also holds a national committee appointment to the Nursing Committee. She is a subject matter expert, item writer, and exam content review committee member for the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing’s Certified Burn Nurse (CBRN) exam. She also serves as a member of BCEN’s board of directors. She was recently appointed a special advisor to the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA)’s burn and blast injury special advisory group. Additionally, she holds adjunct faculty positions in the Johns Hopkins and Stevenson University Schools of Nursing. She publishes and lectures frequently on burn resuscitation, critical care nursing, and burn pain.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Johns Hopkins Medicine! The mission of Johns Hopkins Medicine is to improve the health of the community and the world by setting the standard of excellence in medical education, research and clinical care. Learn more by visiting: www.hopkinsmedicine.org.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Finding the Miracle of the Day with our Volunteer of the Month, Xiomari Castro

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 15:05:00 +0000

In honor of National Volunteer Week, Rachel and Amber are joined by our Volunteer of the Month, Xiomari Castro! Whether she's helping survivors and caregivers find their miracle of the day or providing hope through hugs, Xiomari's passion for helping the burn survivor community is truly inspiring. Her commitment and dedication are evident in her roles as Phoenix SOAR Coordinator and Spanish Instructor, and Patient Services Coordinator at the Burn and Reconstructive Centers of America (BRCA).

During the episode, Xiomari shares how she first got involved with the burn community, her favorite part of her job, and the importance of peer support. She believes we all have a role in helping others and embodies what it means to give back with a humble heart. Thank you, Xiomari, for all that you do for our community!

Looking for links? Check out our show’s description on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Xiomari Castro is the Patient Services Coordinator at Burn and Reconstructive Centers of America (BRCA) in Augusta, GA, where she has worked since March 2015. She has been an invaluable source for patients and their families at Joseph M. Still Burn Centers at Doctors Hospital of Augusta. Xiomari works to help patients, their families, and colleagues through positivity, encouragement, and compassion. She first became a Phoenix SOAR Coordinator in 2018, and in 2023, she became an Instructor, including instructing the first Spanish Phoenix SOAR Peer Supporters class. Xiomari is a native of Puerto Rico and lives with her husband and best friend, Robinson, in Augusta, GA. They have two children and four grandchildren. Outside of work, she loves to spend time with her grandkids church family, serving God, and preaching the word of God.

Podcast Sponsor

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Transformation After Trauma: A Couple’s Perspective on Post-Traumatic Growth

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000

We've all heard of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but have you heard of post-traumatic growth? Post-traumatic growth is all about the positive transformations people can undergo after experiencing trauma. During this episode of Girls with Grafts, we hear from Christopher Gage, a burn survivor, and his caregiver and wife, Holly, on how post-traumatic growth impacted their healing journeys.

You'll also get a behind-the-scenes look at Chris and Holly's Healing Phoenix Arts Program, designed to provide a post-traumatic growth experience by introducing a new perspective on healing from a traumatic event. Through the dynamic and engaging program, Chris and Holly help survivors recognize the progress they have made towards their future and healing.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guests

Holly Gage is the creator and instructor of the Warrior Scar Jewelry workshops and co-founder of the Healing Phoenix Arts Program. Holly is a world-renowned jewelry artist and has instructed students of all ages and abilities with a soulful brend of creating during in-person workshops, interactive online classes, and retreats worldwide for almost 25 years. After her husband and son were involved in an explosion and fire in 2018, she became trained to support burn survivors and their families through the Phoenix SOAR program and certified in the Post Traumatic Growth program from the Boulder Crest Foundation. Together with her husband, Christopher Gage, they combine art with discussion as a healing modality for a Post Traumatic Growth experience.

Christopher Gage is the Group Discussion Facilitator of the Warrior Scar Jewelry Workshop and Co-Founder of the Healing Phoenix Arts Program. Christopher is a burn survivor whose recovery experience from his accident in 2018 is the number one event that has driven him to his current line of work. The explosion, fire, and destruction of his mobile restaurant has completely reshaped Christopher’s life for the better, in a positive way, resulting from working through the Post Traumatic Growth (PTG) process. Christopher learned there is a teaching component to PTG, and he has a need to give hope to those who have suffered trauma. Christopher is peer support trained and certified in Burn Survivor and PTG. Christopher speaks about PTG and is the author of a book detailing his journey to come later this year.

Podcast Sponsor

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Got Mail? A Behind the Scenes With Phoenix Society's Community Resource Coordinator

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 19:05:00 +0000

Have you ever filled out our "contact us" form? If you have, then you've already met today's podcast guest: Liliana Palacios, Phoenix Society's Community Resource Coordinator! Liliana is a burn survivor who has worked with trauma survivors in various capacities throughout her career. She discovered her passion for community service after sustaining a major burn injury when she was 19.

In our conversation, Liliana provides a behind-the-scenes look at her role with Phoenix Society, reveals some of the frequently asked questions she hears from survivors and caregivers, talks about her own struggles as an amputee, and offers tips for those who are interested in giving back.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Liliana Palacios grew up in Los Angeles and is a proud mother to three grown-up kids. She studied at San Francisco State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Health Education with a minor in Holistic Health and Women's Health Issues. Over the years, Lili has mainly worked supporting trauma survivors in various capacities. She discovered her passion for community service through her own experience as a burn survivor. Forty-one years ago, at the age of 19, Lili was in a house fire (she's on OG, y’all!). She attended Phoenix World Burn Congresses throughout the years. Through a fellow burn survivor and her mentor, she learned about the different resources available to the survivor community - which inspired her to get involved in community service. Her other interests include art, photography, cooking, and gardening, among other things.

Podcast Sponsor

Mölnlycke Health Care is a world-leading MedTech company that specializes in innovative solutions for wound care and surgical procedures. Mölnlycke products and solutions are used daily by hospitals, healthcare providers, and patients in over 100 countries around the world. Learn more by visiting: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace/molnlycke.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

The Latest Trends in Burn Care with Burn Surgeon and Survivor Dr. Jason Heard

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 20:00:00 +0000

Ever wondered about donor-less skin grafts? Or how cryotherapy is used for pain control? What about spray-on skin? In this captivating podcast episode, we're joined by burn survivor and burn surgeon Dr. Jason Heard to explore these intriguing topics and more, as we delve into the latest trends and treatments in burn care.

Dr. Jason Heard, a burn survivor turned burn surgeon, brings a unique perspective to the field. At the age of 12, he experienced second and third-degree burns over 40% of his body. This life-altering event inspired him to dedicate his career to caring for others. Now a faculty member at the UC Davis Firefighters Burn Institute and Shriners Children's Northern California burn units, Dr. Heard's journey from patient to practitioner is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Join us as we delve into the cutting-edge world of burn care with Dr. Heard. We'll explore the latest trends and treatments, from revolutionary laser surgeries and donor-less skin grafting to innovative cryotherapy for donor-site pain control and the game-changing foam dressing.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

After sustaining a burn injury on almost half of his body at the age of 12, Dr. Jason Heard was drawn to the medical field and knew he wanted to help other burn survivors in the future. He completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Genetics and Biotechnology at the University of Iowa in 2011. During his undergraduate years, Jason completed many burn related research projects leading to multiple peer reviewed publications. He was also able to be heavily involved with a regional burn non-profit organization, Saint Florian Fire and Burn Foundation. Through this organization, Jason was able to not only attend but develop programming for multiple burn survivor programs. He was fortunate to serve on their Board of Directors from 2012-2014.

He enrolled into medical school at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine in 2012 and matched into general surgery residency at UC Davis in 2016, and ultimately completed his residency at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in 2021. Jason's passion for burn care and my aspiration of doing a burn/critical care persisted throughout my training and he completed his fellowship at UC Davis in 2022. He is currently a faculty member at UC Davis/Shriners Northern California Burn Units, where he continues to care for burn survivors during their initial hospital admission and throughout their recovery, including reconstructive procedures/treatments. Jason is also on Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors’ Board of Directors.

Podcast Sponsor

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Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Just Smile: A Journey of Recovery with Diana Tenney-Laperriere

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 16:25:00 +0000

In this inspiring episode of Girls with Grafts, Diana Tenney-Laperriere shares her story of survival. In 2010, one surprisingly warm early spring day turned into tragedy when Diana was burned over 90% of her body. At the age of 54, Diana was given less than a one percent chance to live. More than 400 days later, Diana returned home.

Years and countless surgeries later, Diana and her husband, Jerry, found a new calling to advocate and support burn survivors nationwide. In this episode, we talk with Diana about her struggle with alcoholism, how she and Jerry navigated their relationship post-accident, the importance of physical fitness in recovery, and how to advocate for yourself and loved ones.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

In 2010 at the age of 54, Diana Tenney-Laperriere was burned 94% of her body, which consisted of mostly third degree burns. Dianna spent over a year recovering from her injury in the hospital and then went on to have reconstructive surgeries for the next seven years.

Dianna married her sweetheart, Jerry, in 2023 and has currently relocated with her husband, dog Barney, and cat Pebbles, to Tennessee to help care for her mother. Additionally, Diana is very physically active and participates in ZUMBA and yoga.

Podcast Sponsor

Today's podcast is powered by Solvita (formerly Community Blood Center/Community Tissue Services). Solvita comes from “sol” meaning sun and “vita” meaning life. As sunlight nurtures new life, Solvita takes the donor gift and transforms it into new hope, bringing the light of healing to patients through blood donations and tissue transplants. Learn more about them here: https://solvita.org/

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Supporting and Empowering Burn Survivors From Hospital to Home With Barbara-Anne Hodge

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 20:25:00 +0000

Retired Occupational Therapist and dedicated burn survivor ally, Barbara-Anne Hodge joined today’s episode of Girls with Grafts! We talk with Barb about her experience working on the burn unit for over 25 years and what led her to help establish the Mamingwey Burn Survivor Society. Although retired, her work with the burn community has not slowed down! Barb is now a dedicated volunteer, ally, and supporter to burn survivors around the world.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Barbara-Anne Hodge is a retired Occupational Therapist who worked for over 25 years on the Burn Unit at the HSC Hospital in Winnipeg, MB. In the course of her work, she came to know many burn survivors who were dealing with changes to their appearance and to their daily lives due to the burn injuries long after they left the hospital. To address these needs and alongside other Burn Unit staff, she helped establish the Mamingwey Burn Survivor Society in Manitoba in 2003. Today, this organization is known as the Mamingwey Burn Society Inc, and she continues in the role of Board Chair.

Barbara-Anne is also a member of the Canadian Burn Survivors Community and is the Secretary of the Board at the Canadian Skin Patient Alliance. She is a past board member of the Firefighters’ Burn Fund Inc. in Manitoba. She is now retired from hospital work and enjoys time spent with burn survivors and others as a volunteer through these various organizations. She is mom to 4 grown kids and a grandmother to 2, and spends as much time as possible with her family.

Podcast Sponsor

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Laughing Through the Pain: The Healing Power of Comedy for a Burn Survivor and Amputee with Dan Gropper

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 16:20:00 +0000

It's true: laughter is strong medicine.

Scientific studies have shown a direct correlation between humor and the diminishment of pain. In addition to easing tension and comforting others, comedy and laughter have been shown to help in various medical and psychological ways, including combatting fear, reducing stress, and even boosting the immune system.

In this episode of Girls with Grafts, Amber and Rachel are joined by burn survivor and quad amputee, Dan Gropper. Dan shares how humor and comedy has impacted his healing journey, shares his experience relearning how to walk, drive, and complete everyday activities after losing all four limbs, and how to keep a positive outlook on life.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Dan Gropper is a burn survivor and quad amputee since December of 1989.  He’s a  peer supporter for fellow survivors, speaks and gives demonstrations to PT and OT students as well as doctors. Dan sits on the Nassau County advisory board to help improve the lives of the physically challenged.  He loves to travel, exercise, box, and plays golf, go to concerts and games.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Gropper & Nejat. For over 25 years, the team at Gropper & Nejat have helped individuals who have suffered fractures, surgeries, amputations, severe burns and other injuries get the financial reparations they deserve. If you are local to the New York, New Jersey, or PA areas, contact them today for a free evaluation of your case! https://www.groppernejat.com

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Beyond Survival: A Journey of Self-Love & Resilience With Michelle Escamilla Valladares

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 14:35:17 +0000

Join us for an inspiring episode of "Beyond Survival," where we welcome the remarkable Michelle Escamilla as our special guest. Michelle's life is a testament to the power of resilience, self-love, and unwavering determination in the face of adversity.

As a burn survivor, spouse, friend, and passionate advocate for self-love, Michelle's story transcends the boundaries of mere survival. Despite enduring life-altering challenges, she embraces each day with courage and grace, refusing to be defined by her past experiences. Instead, Michelle embodies resilience as she navigates life's uncertainties with resilience and purpose.

In this heartfelt conversation, Michelle shares her personal journey, offering insights into how she has found strength and meaning in the face of adversity. From her experiences as a burn survivor to her dedication to serving her community in various capacities, Michelle's story is one of hope, empowerment, and the transformative power of self-love.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Michelle Escamilla (she/ella) joins us to share about her life including being a burn survivor, a spouse and friend, an advocate for self-love, and as someone who pushes through life’s adversities and uncertainties. Though one of her identities includes being a burn survivor, she describes living a life beyond “just surviving”. Michelle dedicates her life to serving the community in a variety of roles and most recently has begun podcasting to share her story and experience with others.

Podcast Sponsor

Buses by the Beach is a group of VW bus lovers, based in West Michigan. They camp, host events, and raise funds for Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. Their first event of 2024, Buses BRRR, is coming up this weekend! Their main event, the Bus Benefit, will be held over memorial day weekend in Michigan. Learn more by visiting https://busesbythebeach.org/.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Honoring National Burn Awareness Week with the ABA's President, Dr. Robert Cartotto

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 16:50:00 +0000

We’re kicking off season 4 of Girls with Grafts during National Burn Awareness Week! National Burn Awareness Week is hosted by the American Burn Association and this year’s theme is spreading awareness about preventing flammable liquid burn injuries.

And who better to join us than the American Burn Association’s president, Dr. Rob Cartotto! In this episode, Dr. Cartotto and Rachel discuss what it’s like being a burn surgeon, common questions from burn survivors, and a behind-the-scenes look at burn care and research. Dr. Cartotto also shares his experience attending Phoenix World Burn Congress 2023 and what’s ahead for the American Burn Association in 2024.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us by leaving a 5-star review and sharing on social media using hashtag #GirlsWithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Meet Our Guest

Dr. Rob Cartotto is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon and burn intensivist at the Ross Tilley Burn Centre in Toronto, Canada. He is a Professor in the Temerty Faculty of Medicine, Department of Surgery, at the University of Toronto. He currently serves as the President of the American Burn Association. His research interests span the continuum of burn care and he has been particularly interested in burn shock resuscitation, lung injury and mechanical ventilation after burns, surgical techniques and outcomes for burns of the hands and face, and the development of clinical practice guidelines for burn care. Outside of work he prefers being at his cabin rather than the city, and he is an amateur artist and avid backcountry camper.

Podcast Sponsor

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Chat with the CEO: 2023 Review & Looking Ahead at 2024

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 23:00:00 +0000

During this episode of Girls with Grafts, Amber Wilcox rejoins Rachel Kudlak for the final episode of Season Three. They begin the episode with a quick life update from Amber. The girls are then joined by CEO of Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, Amy Acton, who shares a recap of 2023 and what’s ahead for the organization in 2024.

Meet Our Guest

Amy Acton is the Chief Executive Officer for Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, where she has served the organization for over 20 years. Amy is a burn survivor, former burn nurse, and leading advocate for the burn community. She has dedicated her career to promoting the expansion of burn recovery services and resources for burn survivors and their loved ones.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by Buses by the Beach! Buses by the Beach are a group of VW van lovers, and while they are based in the West Michigan area, they draw VW bus owners and their families from all over the USA and Canada. Since 2002, Buses by the Beach have combined our love of Volkswagen-style camping with raising money for the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. Learn more about them here: https://busesbythebeach.org/

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Understanding the Long Term Outcomes for Burn Survivors with Dr. Jeffrey Schneider

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 20:00:00 +0000

With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Jeffrey Schneider specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation and first had his opportunity to work with burn patients shortly after the Station Nightclub Fire occurred while he was completing his residency. It was during that time that Dr. Schneider became interested in the long-term effects of a burn injury, and has since dedicated time to researching to better understand the impact of a burn injury.

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Schneider about his research, discuss areas of opportunity for the burn community, and understand more about what it means to classify burns as a ‘chronic condition’.

About Dr. Jeffrey C. Schneider

Dr. Jeffrey C. Schneider is the Medical Director of Burn, Trauma, & Orthopedic Rehabilitation and Director of the Rehabilitation Outcomes Group at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital. In addition, he serves as Division Chief of Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Associate Chair of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Schneider’s research focus is on the long-term effects of burn injury. He is also the Principal Investigator and Project Director of the Boston-Harvard Burn Injury Model System (BHBIMS), a multi-institutional clinical and research collaboration between Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston University, and Shriners Hospitals for Children—Boston.

Resources from the Show

About Spaulding Rehab

Spaulding is one of our Phoenix Partners and is a world leader in advanced rehabilitation treatment and research – serving the greater Boston region and beyond. Learn more about Spaulding Rehab: https://spauldingrehab.org/research/programs-labs/burn-injury

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Be a Part of Something Bigger This Giving Tuesday

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 16:00:00 +0000

It’s #GivingTuesday! Giving Tuesday is a global generosity movement unleashing the power of radical generosity. In honor of Giving Tuesday, we want to highlight a few of the ways you can give back to Phoenix Society and burn community. We hope today’s podcast inspires you to find a way to give back that is meaningful to you.

Ways to Give Back

Double Your Impact & Become a Monthly Donor: By joining our monthly giving club today, your donations will be MATCHED dollar for dollar! Monthly gifts are especially meaningful because they ensure that Phoenix Society has the resources we need to reach survivors, caretakers, and healthcare partners - no matter where they are - all year round. Please visit https://give.phoenix-society.org/match23 to make a gift!
Join Team Phoenix: Whether you’re running your first 5k or training for a triathlon, fuel your cause by making every mile count for the burn community. Learn more by visiting https://www.phoenix-society.org/ways-to-give/team-phoenix.
Become a Phoenix SOAR Peer Supporter: Phoenix SOAR (Survivors Offering Assistance in Recovery) connects burn survivors and loved ones to a community of peer supporters who share similar experiences. Learn more by visiting https://www.phoenix-society.org/phoenix-soar or emailing phoenixsoar@phoenix-society.org.

Meet Our Guests

Robert Duval has been the Fire Investigator for the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), which is based in Quincy, Massachusetts, since 1997. Robert is responsible for conducting investigations of technically significant incidents in order to gather, “Lessons Learned” from each incident to apply those lessons to improving NFPA codes and standards. The investigation of these incidents includes documenting the emergency services response, the structure(s) involved as well as the events leading up to and following the incident.

Robert was named the New England Regional Manager for NFPA in 2003. His region recently expanded to include NY and NJ and is now referred to as the Northeast Region. As Regional Director, Robert is responsible for outreach within the northeast states regarding code adoptions, and training. He also serves as a point of contact for stakeholders in the NFPA process; including the fire service, engineering and safety professionals.

Tony Gonzalez was burned on 95% of his body in February 1997. The accident was caused by a propane gas explosion at a friend’s vacation cabin in Wisconsin. Tony spent the next nine months in the ICU before spending another two months in rehab before returning home to the Chicago area. He had over 80 surgeries total and thanks his strong, close knit family for their endless support and guidance throughout his recovery.

In 1998, Tony met the founder of Phoenix Society, Alan, and his wife, Delwyn during a peer support visit at Loyola Medical Center. He went on to attend Phoenix World Burn Congress one year later and was trained as a Peer Supporter in the pilot program of Phoenix SOAR in 2001. Since then, Tony has been actively involved with Phoenix Society and the burn survivor community. Tony currently serves on Phoenix Society’s Board of Directors and gives back to the organization in many ways, including his philanthropic support.

Shelby Mitchell currently resides in Wisconsin. She has a Goldendoodle named Josie who is her sidekick and goes everywhere that she can with Shelby. Shelby was burned in 2022 and has been involved with Phoenix Society since meeting a Peer Supporter while recovering in the hospital. Shelby recently completed the Phoenix SOAR training and has been a volunteer since September.

Podcast Sponsor

Today’s podcast is powered by YOU! As a nonprofit, we do rely on the support from our donors, volunteers, supporters, and advocates. We couldn’t do it without you and we sincerely thank you for all that you do for our community.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Wildfire Survivor Encourages Wildfire Preparedness Year Round

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 13:00:00 +0000

Every year, wildfires burn across the United States, and a growing number of people are living where wildfires are a real risk. According to NFPA, every year, wildfires burn across the U.S., and more and more people are living where wildfires are a real risk. Nearly 45 million homes and more than 72,000 U.S. communities are now at risk.

In today’s podcast, we sit down with Allyson Watson, a burn survivor of the 2003 San Diego Wildfires. Allyson shares her journey as a survivor, wildfire prevention tips, and advice for the survivors of the recent Maui wildfires.

About Allyson Watson

Allyson Watson is a burn survivor from the 2003 San Diego Wildfires. She lost her home, and was burned 2nd and 3rd degree over 86% of her body while trying to evacuate. She lost all 10 fingers, part of her upper lip, the tip of her nose, as well as her left ear due to the injuries. More devastating than her injuries; her 16 year old sister Ashleigh, was killed in the blaze.

Allyson has since rallied from that loss, went back to college, began a career in homeless outreach, got married, and is now the mother of two boys.

In her spare time, Allyson volunteers as a motivational speaker, hoping to educate the community on fire prevention and preparedness. She also enjoys photography, horseback riding, days at the beach, and any activities involving family. Interested in getting connected with Allyson? Contact Phoenix Society at info@phoenix-society.org.

Resources from the Show

About Gropper & Nejat

For over 25 years, the team at Gropper & Nejat have helped individuals who have suffered fractures, surgeries, amputations, severe burns and other injuries get the financial reparations they deserve. If you are local to the New York, New Jersey, or PA areas, contact them today for a free evaluation of your case! https://www.groppernejat.com

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Beyond The Burn: Defying The Odds On and Off the Water

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 23:00:00 +0000

Many burn survivors face the harsh reality after a burn injury of wondering if they will ever return back to ‘normal’. For many, the long journey to recovery can seem both overwhelming and uncertain—not knowing what the future can hold or how long recovery (both physical and emotional) may take. A burn survivor’s journey to recovery is not often quick—and it can be in these moments of uncertainty that finding purpose and motivation can help survivors overcome some of their darkest moments.

For Matt Manzari, a career in wakeskating that began at an early age seemed like what he was born to do. However, after two major traumatic events—a wakeskating water accident and an electrical burn injury, he was left not knowing what his future may hold. In this episode, we talk with Matt about his personal journey to recovery, how he found purpose after his accidents, and what returning back to ‘normal’ meant for Matt.

About Matt Manzari

Matt Manzari fell in love with water sports at an early age. He started wakeskating and before he knew it, he was sponsored by Nike and traveling the world doing what he loved at the age of 15! It seemed like his career was established, and Matt knew what he would do for the rest of his life! However, God had other plans and began to work on his heart.

Matt went on to school to study Theology and four years laters, he was about to graduate and he and his wife were excited to move into full-time ministry. The weekend before his final exams, and even though he had pretty much removed himself from the sport, Matt entered into the pro tour contests to earn some extra money. However, tragedy struck and he was involved in an accident that doctors were amazed he survived.

A year later, Matt began working in ministry. He was trimming trees at a local church and a power line arched over to the metal bucket he was standing in. 14,000 Volts shot through his body and caused 4th and 5th-degree burns, which melted most of the skin off of his chest and arms, going deep enough to kill muscle and bone. Matt was rushed to the emergency center and doctors were not sure if he would ever wake from the coma he was in.

Miraculously, a few days later he woke up from the coma and began to speak. After multiple surgeries of tissue removal, artificial skin placement, and skin grafts, Matt was released just over three months later.

Resources from the Show

About Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals

For more than 150 years, Mallinckrodt has been advancing the fields of science and medicine to improve the lives of people around the world. Learn more by visiting https://www.mallinckrodt.com.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Paramedical Tattooing: Can You Tattoo Over Burn Scars?

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 13:00:00 +0000

After a burn injury, many burn survivors are left with the appearance of visible burn scars that can sometimes make getting back out there after a burn injury difficult. There are several options that burn survivors may explore to help with the appearance of scars, all with a unique preference for the survivor and their own healing journey. While many survivors are comfortable with the appearance of scars as they are, every survivor’s journey and unique preference for how they manage the appearance of their scars is different.

In this episode, we talk with Murphy Miñoso, a paramedical tattoo artist, to learn more about this type of scar camouflaging and how it can impact the emotional and physical aspects of a survivor's burn recovery journey. We dive deep into the process of paramedical tattooing with Murphy as she shares with us more about what survivors can expect with choosing this type of treatment for burn scars.

About Murphy Miñoso

When Murphy Miñoso first learned about paramedical tattooing, she was immediately drawn to the power beyond its artistry. Its ability to change people both physically and emotionally was something that Murphy connected with on a very personal level. Through her tattooing services, she hopes to aid in the journey towards turning insecurity into confidence.

Seeing how artistic transformations could be so profound was always inspiring to Murphy. She originally began her career as a licensed cosmetologist, as well as a professional makeup artist. Murphy started her journey working in a high-end NYC salon and moved on to doing makeup for film and television in Louisiana and Chicago. After 11 years, she built a strong background in color theory and aesthetics and learned the deep importance of enhancing each individual’s unique beauty.

In a world with so much emphasis on physical appearance, it can be difficult to find the balance of inner and outer beauty. It fills her heart that she is now able to focus her passion for helping others and intertwine it with her affinity for nature and its ability to heal. This is where Willow & Birch was born. Murphy hopes to inspire some self-love and remind people that true happiness lies within themselves, regardless of the scars life brings along the way.

Resources from the Show

Visit Murphy’s Website.
Visit Willow & Birch: Wellness Boutique and Paramedical Tattoo Studio | 324 N River St. East Dundee, IL 60118
Email Willow & Birch: wellness@willowandbirch.com
Follow Willow & Birch on Instagram.
Follow Willow & Birch on Facebook.
Read the Article ‘What Does it Mean When Someone Stares at Your Scars?’.
Read More About Laser Treatment for Burns.
Watch ‘Makeup Application Tips for Burn Survivors’.
Watch ‘Skin Care After a Burn Injury’.
Read the article ‘Burns are Beautiful’.
Read the Article ‘I Don’t See Your Scars’.
Get Your Own Copy of Phoenix Society’s Journey Magazine.
For More Resources, Visit Us Here.

About Pye-Barker Fire & Safety

Pye-Barker is a nation leader in fire protection, life safety and security services to a wide variety of industries. Learn more and find a location near you by visiting www.pyebarkerfs.com.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Our Scars Shouldn’t Be Your Halloween Inspiration

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Halloween is a time for fun, but let’s not forget that it can be tough for those with facial and visible differences. Portraying a burn survivor or someone with physical disfigurements can be extremely disrespectful and triggering. Additionally, burn survivors see an increase of harmful and hurtful messages during the spooky season.

In today’s podcast, we sit down with influencer Tonya Meisenbach, better known as Burned Beauty 2018. Tonya shares her thoughts on Halloween and the negative comments and questions she’s been receiving. We also chat about how survivors and those with visible differences are portrayed in Hollywood. From Darth Vader in Star Wars to Scar in The Lion King, filmmakers have long made a link between physical disfigurement and evil.

About Tonya Meisenbach

Tonya Meisenbach, better known as Burned Beauty 2018, is a wife, mother of two adult children, luminary, and humanitarian currently living in Atlanta, GA.

Formerly a Paralegal and Realtor, Tonya has always enjoyed helping and elevating others. After being burned over 35% of her upper body and almost losing the battle, nothing has changed, Tonya turned her pain into purpose, and although Tonya's methodology is different, the end goal remains the same, elevating others.

Tonya now uses hair, makeup, tutorials, and social media to help inspire other burn survivors in their recovery. She wants all survivors to understand that their wounds will heal, and that with the right mindset, they can and accomplish anything and overcome any obstacle thrown in their path.

Resources from the Show

About the Cunningham Law Firm

Located in Phoenix, Arizona and helping clients nationwide, the Cunningham Law Firm specializes in personal injury, wrongful death and burn related cases. Learn more by visiting https://cunninghamlawfirm.com.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Embracing Your Scars & Never Feeling Ashamed

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 19:00:00 +0000

Taylor Campbell was just 8 months old when her burn injury occurred from a kitchen accident resulting in 64% of her body burned with a 7% chance of survival. Today, Taylor is 19 years old and has had over 30 surgeries since her accident. As a child burn survivor, Taylor has spent her life adapting to her burn injury, with countless surgeries and obstacles to overcome along the way.

In this episode, Taylor shares her journey as a child burn survivor to what life is now like as a 19-year-old college student and author. Taylor recalls details of her memories of facing school for the first time as a survivor, how she managed to overcome new challenges such as wearing a wig and provides advice for other survivors about getting back out there.

About Taylor Campbell

Taylor Campbell is a nineteen-year-old college student attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, majoring in Communications and minoring in Creative Writing with a focus on Journalism. She is the author of "Hope to the Third Degree" and is currently working on her second book, as writing is one of her true passions. She co-founded the Taylor Campbell Pledge Fund, located at the North Carolina Jaycee Burn Center Children's Hospital, aiming to raise funds to assist families with aftercare necessities.

Currently, Taylor is working towards becoming Leadership certified with John C. Maxwell and his team, which will be official this upcoming March. This certification will allow her to engage in coaching, speaking, and further, her writing career, as Taylor feels called to make a difference through sharing my story. In her free time, she enjoys the beach, staying active, engaging in outdoor activities, and spending time with her family.

Resources from the Show

About AlloSource

AlloSource is Phoenix Society’s Vision Partner and I want to take a quick moment and share a message from Dean Elliott, AlloSource’s president and CEO:

“AlloSource’s partnership with Phoenix Society has been a powerful extension of the physical healing we provide burn survivors through our allografts. It’s given our organization the opportunity to support the mental and emotional journey burn survivors face as part of their healing process. Whether it is providing speakers to share their personal stories of survival or offering a platform for community involvement through time or donations, the Phoenix Society partnership has played a role in helping our employees further connect to our important work honoring tissue donors by creating products to help surgeons save and enhance lives.”

Learn more about Allosource

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Celebrating NFPA®'s Fire Prevention Week™ with Telgian's Pamela Reno

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Each year, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®), hosts Fire Prevention Week™ (FPW) to help with educating the public about the importance of fire safety. For more than 100 years, NFPA, the official sponsor of FPW, has hosted a fire prevention campaign and themes the week around a particular aspect of fire safety. This year’s FPW campaign, “Cooking Safety Starts with YOU”, highlights the important actions that should be taken to stay safe in the kitchen. Join the NFPA to celebrate Fire Prevention Week on October 8th-14th and commit to kitchen and cooking safety!

In honor of Fire Prevention Week, in this special episode, we are joined by special guest Pamela Reno, Fire Protection Engineer & Regional Practice Leader at Telgian Engineering & Consulting, to discuss fire safety, learn more about her role as a fire protection engineer, and discuss key messages in honor of fire prevention week.

About Pamela Reno

Pamela Reno has more than 20 years of experience and knowledge of concepts, principles, and practices of fire prevention, fire protection, and life safety engineering in the healthcare, engineering consulting, and manufacturing industries. She facilitates process development, documentation, and technical leadership, and administers training to ensure company and regulatory policies are met. Mrs. Reno also oversees fire and life safety components of planning and design including resolving issues during construction and ensuring codes, plans, and standards are in compliance. She has developed new passive fire protection and life safety design standards for hospitals, family health centers, ambulatory surgical centers, and regional practice sites and has also performed life safety assessments in accordance with the 2012 Life Safety Code, Joint Commission Standards, and the Center for Medicaid and Medicare services regulations.

Mrs. Reno established and maintained a fire-safe environment by protecting patients, personnel, visitors, and property from fire, smoke, and other products of combustion for hospital campus buildings, family health centers, ambulatory surgical centers, and regional practice sites.

She has developed fire plans, which included:

Roles and responsibilities of employees during a fire emergency
How to use fire alarms and fire extinguishers
How to contain fire and smoke
Evacuation procedures

Additionally, she has designed fire evacuation signs, ensured fire evacuation plans were up-to-date and current, trained operating room (OR) staff on fire safety in the OR, and conducted fire drills to ensure OR staff knew roles and responsibilities in the event of an OR fire. Pamela also plays an integral role in codes and standards development.

Resources from the Show

About Telgian Engineering & Consulting

Telgian is committed to providing effective and innovative fire protection, life safety and security programs. Learn more Telgian at: https://www.telgian.com

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show?

Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Against All Odds: A Comeback Story

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 20:15:00 +0000

On Halloween in 1987, Anthony Razzano at the young age of 12 years old found himself influenced by peers huffing gas on a quad motorbike. In his recollection of a ‘split-second decision,’ Anthony decided to join his peers and later returned home with a friend to continue the activity. Not realizing the dangers around gasoline, Anthony’s friend lit a match causing burns to over 87% of Anthony’s body. Anthony was given a 0% chance at living and had his last rights read to him three times over the course of his recovery.

In this episode, we talk with Anthony about his journey to recovery as a child burn survivor, the role mental health plays in burn injury recovery, and discuss how he’s overcome obstacles to become who he is today. Anthony shares his advice for other burn survivors, and talks about what to expect when reading his memoir, “Against All Odds”.

About Anthony Razzano

Anthony Razzano is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), licensed sports agent, and an NFL-certified contract advisor. He has made a career out of negotiating successful contracts for his clients and providing expert tax and business advice since 2006. Born and raised in New Castle, Pennsylvania, Anthony harbored childhood dreams of becoming a professional football player.

However, at a young age, Anthony was tragically injured in a fire that resulted in burns covering 87% of his body, and he lost his left hand. Anthony was not expected to survive but defied all odds. After an intense recovery, he became the starting outside linebacker for the New Castle Red Hurricanes high school football team, demonstrating an unbreakable spirit and determination that has been a hallmark of his life.

Today, he is the author of the upcoming memoir, "Against All Odds," which tells his inspiring journey from the fire back to the football field, and his subsequent success in the fields of finance and sports management. Anthony is an embodiment of the power of resilience, fortitude, and tenacity.

Resources from the Show

About NFPA (National Fire Protection Association)

NFPA is a nonprofit that seeks to save lives and reduce loss with information, knowledge, & passion. Learn more about fire safety and explore their educational resources by visiting www.nfpa.org.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Preparing & Packing for Phoenix World Burn Congress 2023

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

We're just weeks away from Phoenix World Burn Congress 2023! To help attendees prepare for the event, we welcomed Megan Tinney, Phoenix WBC event manager, and Gina Russo, a key volunteer dedicated to ensuring that our first-time attendees are welcomed and supported at the conference, to the podcast!

About Gina Russo

Gina Russo was born and raised in Cranston, Rhode Island. She is a mother to two amazing sons and has worked at the local hospital for 32 years, In 2003, her and her fiancé attended a concert at the Station Nightclub in West Warwick that turned into a deadly blaze, killing 100 including her fiancé Alfred. Gina survived the accident with 3rd and 4th degree burns to 40% of her body - and she only learned about Alfred's death after coming out of a medically induced coma 12 weeks later.

In 2009, she self-published a book titled "From The Ashes." It was written for a therapeutic reason but wanted to share her story with others. She is proud to share that the book went on to sell for 3,500+ copies and opened up a world of public speaking about living and surviving such a tragic event.

Today, she is a Phoenix SOAR Peer Supporter and loves giving back and helping new survivors navigate their new life and get back to living. She has been married to her husband, Steven, for 15 years and loves her life as a burn survivor and what it has opened up for her. She is grateful for the opportunity to meet so many amazing person and the opportunity to help others.

About Megan Tinney

Megan Tinney is responsible for developing, managing, and planning Phoenix World Burn Congress. As the Program Manager of Community Engagement, Megan expands community outreach, engagement opportunities, and virtual offerings. She began her career as a Physical Therapist at Shriners Hospital for Children, Galveston after earning her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Shenandoah University.

Megan was first introduced to Phoenix Society at the 2009 Phoenix WBC before assisting with the conference next year in Galveston. Since 2010, Megan has held many roles within Phoenix WBC, including serving as the Event Coordinator Assistant for the past three years. In addition to her work with Phoenix Society, Megan also served as the Manager of Rehabilitation Services at Shriners Hospital for Children, Galveston and has worked in a variety of healthcare settings.

About Phoenix World Burn Congress

Phoenix World Burn Congress (WBC) is a program of Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, the leading national nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people impacted by a burn injury.

Phoenix WBC began in 1985, developed by burn survivors, for burn survivors, to identify and understand the issues that impact the daily lives of those associated with burn trauma. Today, Phoenix WBC is the world's largest gathering of survivors, their families, burn care professionals and the fire service industry.

This life-changing biennial event connects attendees with support resources, educational programming, workshops, and, most importantly, each other. It is through these shared experiences that healing begins, because we have learned that nothing heals survivors like connection with other survivors.

Resources from the Show

About MedStar Health

MedStar Health is a health system dedicated to caring for people in Maryland and the Washington, D.C., region, while advancing the practice of medicine through education, innovation and research. Learn more at www.medstarhealth.org.

About the D.C. Firefighters Burn Foundation

The D.C. Firefighters Burn Foundation is dedicated to assisting in the recovery and rehabilitation of injured firefighters and burn survivors from the Washington metropolitan region. The foundation supports burn research, treatment, and rehabilitation programs at Washington Hospital Center and Children's National Medical Center. Learn more at

www.dcffburnfoundation.org.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

The Power of Art in Healing with Survivor & Artist Grace Athena Flott

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 21:00:00 +0000

At the age of 20, Grace Athena Flott was studying abroad in Paris when the apartment she lived in caught on fire causing burns to 45% of her body, a broken back and ankle, and the loss of two of her friends from the incident. Today, over a decade after her injury, Grace is an incredibly talented artist expressing and giving back to her community through her passion for the arts.

In this episode, we speak with Grace about her passion for art, and discuss with her how her art helps her advocate for appropriate representation of those with visible differences. Grace shares with us more about her current project featured in the Museum of Museums in Seattle, and shares vulnerable details about advice she has for survivors in accepting their own appearances.

Grace Flott

Grace Flott is a painter, arts educator, and burn survivor advocate. She is a member of the Jasmine Jahanshahi Fire Safety Foundation, a Phoenix SOAR volunteer, and a volunteer camp counselor for Camp Eyabsut, a camp for burn survivor kids of all ages. She grew up in eastern Washington State and now resides in Seattle, where she holds drawing and painting classes in her private studio and online

Resources from the Show

About Pritzker Hageman

The Pritzker Hageman burn injury legal team helps burn survivors and their loved ones pursue compensation and justice throughout the United States. Learn more more at: LegalJourney.guide

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Advocating for the Burn Survivor Patient

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 13:00:00 +0000

Navigating the hospital as a newly injured burn survivor can be overwhelming, and frightening, and leave many feeling like they have an extreme loss of control. The role a burn nurse plays in this journey is a critical component of a survivor’s healing—both mentally and physically. The burn nurse often spends great lengths with survivors, spending time in countless dressing changes, helping them navigate pain management and much more.

In this episode, we speak with Joey Lavallee, Family Nurse Practitioner, at the Warden Burn Center in Orlando, Florida, and former Trauma Burn Stepdown Unit nurse at Orlando Regional Medical Center. Joey shares his passion for caring for burn patients—that Amber, Girls with Grafts host, has witnessed first-hand as his patient during her 2020 hospital stay after her burn injury in Orlando, Florida. Girls with Grafts chats with Joey about his experience in the role that physical activity plays in burn recovery and asks for his advice for caregivers, fellow burn nurses, and survivors.

About Joey Lavallee, APRN

Joey Lavallee is a Family Nurse Practitioner working in the outpatient clinic at the Warden Burn Center at Orlando Health, in Orlando, FL with close to a decade of burn experience. He began his nursing career as a bedside nurse first in Orthopedics and then in the Trauma Burn Stepdown Unit at Orlando Regional Medical Center where his passion for burns flourished. He graduated with his BSN from the University of Texas at Arlington, then completed his MSN at the University of South Florida. As a nurse practitioner, he contributed to the development of a preoperative medicine clinic to improve the clinical outcomes of surgical patients. Recently he was able to fulfill his dream of caring for burn patients again, now on an outpatient basis. He is particularly interested in the long-term care of burns and getting patients back to an active lifestyle, promoting mental and physical wellness through rehab, exercise, and physical fitness. He is an Advanced Burn Life Support instructor (certified by the American Burn Association). When not at work he enjoys going on adventures with his wife and two young children, CrossFit, and cooking.

Resources from the Show

About The Bert Martin Foundation

The Bert Martin Foundation was established to assist those who help others and provide financial support for nonprofit organizations. We’re honored to have the Bert Martin Foundation as a long-standing Phoenix Society Partner. Learn more at: https://bertmartinfoundation.org/

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Dennis Gardin Shares His Journey from Victim to Survivor

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 14:30:00 +0000

For nearly 20 years, Dennis Gardin referred to himself as a ‘victim’ of his injury, rather than a survivor. It wasn’t until he was asked by a friend to visit someone with a burn injury in the hospital that he began his transformation from victim to survivor. Shortly after visiting his first-ever burn survivor, Dennis connected with a community of other survivors and began his journey to healing.

In this episode, Dennis chats with us about his injury, what it was like to be a child burn survivor, how his own perceptions led his journey of recovery, and how he overcame adversities to become the person he is today.

Dennis Gardin

Dennis Gardin burned over 70% of his body in a horrific gasoline explosion as a child, resulting in extensive hospitalization, dozens of surgeries, and years of therapy and rehabilitation. Prolonged pain and profound disfigurement caused him to hide in isolation for years in the confines of his parent’s home.

Dennis has grown along his journey of self-discovery to become a successful businessman, professional speaker, ministrant, former television talk show host and radio personality, workshop facilitator, and consultant. He is currently privileged with the honor of serving as the Executive Director for the Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation.

Dennis hopes to inspire individuals to face their inner scars and self-limiting beliefs to begin creating an abundant, fulfilling life of purpose.

Resources from the Show

About NFSA

NFSA aims to protect lives and property through the advancement of fire sprinklers. Learn more about fire sprinklers, fire advocacy, and how to get involved by visiting nfsa.org.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

The Importance of Good Sleep with Dr. Sheera Lerman Zohar

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 18:00:00 +0000

According to estimates from the Sleep Foundation, roughly 50 million to 70 million people suffer from sleep disorders in the United States. Sleep is a very powerful tool for the human body, and in fact, sleep has a direct correlation to how we feel pain in the body.

In this episode, we chat with Dr. Sheera Lerman Zohar, a sleep expert sharing with us not only her tips for getting better sleep, but how sleep specifically affects burn survivors on their road to recovery. Whether you’re looking for the secret to better sleep, or are just interested in learning more about how bad sleep can affect you—this episode is packed with helpful hints to catching some zzz’s!

Dr. Sheera Lerman Zohar

Dr. Sheera Lerman is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in Rehabilitation Psychology. She is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and is the director of Burn Psychology Services at the Johns Hopkins Adult Burn Center.

Dr. Lerman has always been interested in the psychological aspects of health and illness and how people can overcome hardship and adversity. She strongly believes that we cannot fully heal the body without also addressing the mind and advocates for the importance of mental health services in medical settings. She has been a rehabilitation psychologist for almost 15 years and has worked with individuals with a variety of medical conditions with a special interest in conditions that involve chronic pain. She started her position as a burn psychologist in 2019 and works with burn survivors in the continuum of care from their inpatient admission to the outpatient setting.

Resources from the Show

About Johnson Controls

Johnson Controls is dedicated to saving lives and protecting people around the world through reimagining the performance of buildings to make them safer and smart. Learn more about Johnson Controls by visiting their website: https://www.johnsoncontrols.com.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

In Sickness and In Health: A Modern Dating App for Disabilities, Introducing Dateability

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 02:29:56 +0000

Shortly after graduating college, Jacqueline Child decided to give mainstream dating apps a try—hoping to find her perfect match. Unfortunately for Jacqueline, what she had hoped would be a positive experience to find love while also managing a chronic illness—usually ended with disappointment and discouragement. After a series of bad experiences with many online ‘matches’, Jacqueline and her sister teamed up to create an online dating experience for those with a disability or chronic illness.

Thus, Dateability was born. The only app for those dealing with chronic illness or disabilities, this modern dating experience is available across the country to those with an iPhone or Android or via a web application at dateabilityapp.com. In this episode, we talk with Alexa and Jacqueline about creating Dateability, advice for those looking for ‘the perfect match’, and learn more about living with a chronic illness.

About Alexa Child

Alexa, the co-founder of Dateability, graduated from Georgetown Law in 2015 and currently works as a public interest attorney. Through witnessing her sister’s experience with disability, Alexa has become an advocate and ally for the disability community. She is passionate about social justice, enjoys TV and film, and loves all things Halloween.

About Jacqueline Child

Jacqueline, the co-founder of Dateability, has turned her experience with disability and chronic illness into a new venture. She created Dateability with her sister after years of discouraging ableist experiences on mainstream dating apps. When she isn’t managing her health, Jacqueline enjoys playing the guitar, reading, and volunteering at the local animal shelter.

About Exsurco Medical

Exsurco engineers high-precision products for both healthcare and tissue bank professionals and is dedicated to advancing the healing power of skin to patients who need it the most. Learn more at www.Exsurco.com.

Resources from the Show

Learn more about Dateability
Information About Intimacy and Sexuality After a Burn Injury
Dating After a Burn Injury
Ableist Attitudes Quiz
Carson Tuler’s Instagram
Tools for Social Empowerment
Contact Dateability:
Instagram
Facebook
Send an Email: alexa@dateabilityapp.com or jacqueline@dateabilityapp.com

‘To Struggle is To Be Human’: The Power of Peer Support with Jamie Nieto & Tony Gonzalez

Tue, 23 May 2023 14:30:00 +0000

Tony Gonzalez walked into Jamie Neito’s hospital room shortly after his burn injury at Loyola Medical Center to provide him Peer Support as a part of Phoenix Society’s SOAR program, and what began as a Peer Support discussion became a lifelong friendship for the two burn survivors. Sharing a love of golf, the two connected and describe their relationship as having developed into a “brotherhood” between the two.

In this episode, Jamie and Tony share their vulnerable truths about struggling with their independence, the power of peer support, why patient education and survivor awareness is important, and much more. Jamie and Tony also share exciting details about their annual Phoenix Society fundraiser, their golf outing held in Chicago, Illinois.

About Tony Gonzalez

Tony Gonzalez burned 95% of his body in February 1997. The accident was caused by a propane gas explosion at a friend’s vacation cabin in Wisconsin. Tony spent the next nine months in the ICU before spending another two months in rehab before returning home to the Chicago area. He had over 80 surgeries total and thanks his strong, close-knit family for their endless support and guidance throughout his recovery.

Since then, Tony has been actively involved with Phoenix Society and the burn survivor community. Tony currently serves on Phoenix Society’s Board of Directors and gives back to the organization in many ways, including his philanthropic support.

About Jamie Neito

Jamie Neito was burned on his 20th birthday in a backyard fire accident. He went on to spend six weeks in Loyola University Medical Center’s ICU and another five weeks in a rehab center. During his stay at Loyola, Tony visited Jamie through the Phoenix SOAR program - and the sole visit changed his outlook on life completely.

Since recovering, Jamie became a Phoenix SOAR Peer Supporter and tries to support the burn community as much as possible. He went on to finish school and become a member of the PGA of America.

Jamie married his wife in 2020 and Tony stood by his side as his best man. Jamie is proud of the work he has done with Tony’s guidance and this year he celebrates half of his life as a burn survivor.

Resources from the Show

About Johnson Controls

Johnson Controls is a global leader in fire safety and suppression technologies, helping to save lives and protect people around the world. Learn more about Johnson Controls by visiting their website: https://www.johnsoncontrols.com.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show?

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Face Equality Week | May 15-19, 2023 | We Will Not Hide

Wed, 17 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Over 100 million people worldwide have a mark, scar or condition which affects their facial appearance. This includes those that have suffered a burn injury. For many, having a facial difference means living in oppression dealing with negative stigmas, and a lack of strong representation in the media or online. During Face Equality Week, we honor, and spread awareness for facial inequalities as we work together to educate the world about the misconceptions and superstitions surrounding those with these differences.

In this episode, we talk with Lise Deguire and Niki Averton, representatives and advocates in our community who are working to help raise awareness and combat the negative stigma that surrounds those with facial differences. Lise and Niki talk about their personal passions for the project, and their work with Face Equality International, and advocate to inspire others to help drive positive change for face equality.

About Face Equality International

Face Equality International is an alliance of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), charities, and support groups which are working at national, regional, or international levels to promote the campaign for ‘face equality’. Learn more at https://faceequalityinternational.org.

About Lise Deguire

Dr. Lise Deguire is a clinical psychologist, author, and burn survivor. After being severely burned as a four-year-old, she spent much of her childhood in the hospital, undergoing countless surgical procedures. Dr. Deguire is the author of her multiple award-winning book, Flashback Girl: Lessons on Resilience from a Burn Survivor.

Dr. Deguire attended Tufts University, graduating summa cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa. She earned her doctorate in clinical psychology from Widener University and is in solo practice in New Jersey. Dr. Deguire has appeared on NPR, NBC, ABC, FOX, and Sirius XM. She is a national keynote speaker and has presented for Phoenix World Burn Congress, and the American Burn Association, amongst many others. She writes for Psychology Today and has been featured in Huffington Post, Thrive Global, and many other publications. Dr. Deguire blogs regularly about psychological resilience. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Linkedin, and her website, LiseDeguire.com

About Niki Averton

Niki Averton is a writer, editor, and lifelong member of the burn community. She earned an MFA in Writing for Children & Young Adults from Vermont College of Fine Arts, where her thesis examined the representation of scarred characters in speculative young adult literature. Her short fiction has appeared in Voyage YA Journal. Prior to becoming a full-time writer and freelance editor, she was a program manager at Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. Niki lives in Michigan with her wife and a small army of furry pals.

About Telgian

As a global leader, Telgian is saving lives through innovative fire prevention and life safety solutions. Together, Telgian and Phoenix Society unite to increase and raise awareness for fire prevention efforts.

Resources from the Show

National Nurses Week | May 6th-12th | Burn Survivor & Burn Nurse Brianna Blackwell

Wed, 10 May 2023 23:31:52 +0000

National Nurses Week is held each year beginning May 6th and ends 12th, during which Florence Nightingale’s birthday occurs. Nightingale played an instrumental role in shaping the role of the modern-day nurse. Celebrated annually, this event honors nurses around the world who have made contributions to our lives. For the burn survivor, nurses have played a vital role in recovery, and shape the experiences that are faced in the burn unit.

In this episode, we honor this special week by speaking with both a burn survivor and burn nurse, Brianna Blackwell. A burn survivor herself, Brianna shares with us her real-life experiences as both a survivor and a nurse, answers commonly asked questions she gets from burn survivors in the unit, and joins Girls with Grafts as we thank and honor nurses around the world.

About Brianna Blackwell

Brianna Blackwell is a childhood burn survivor who has gleaned passion and purpose from adversity. Her tragedy at the age of three years old has turned into triumph in a life of service. Brianna graduated with honors from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Her servant's heart leads her to travel to Africa twice to volunteer in a variety of healthcare settings. She currently works as a Registered Nurse at Eskenazi Health in Indianapolis, IN, working in Indiana’s only verified adult burn center. With a special focus on holistic and psychosocial concepts, Brianna continues to work in many capacities to advocate for burn survivors. Outside of the healthcare world, Brianna is a former four-time national champion and two-time member of Team USA for the sport of baton twirling. She currently serves as President of the Indiana Baton Twirling Association helping to propel the sport into the next generation. About Brianna: https://www.phoenix-society.org/team/brianna-bolinger

About Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals

Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals provides medicines to address unmet patient needs and helps improve people’s lives. They also released their “Focused On Burn,” which was created to help continue advancing burn care based on input from healthcare professionals. Learn more at www.focusedonburn.com.

Resources from the Show

Read articles about Brianna:
Western Herald
Detroit News
Learn More About National Nurses Week
Information About Brianna’s Project with Phoenix Society
Discovering Confidence As a Burn Survivor
Are you a hospital looking to contact Phoenix Society & Brianna about the psycho-social program discussed on the show? Email info@phoenix-society.org.
Phoenix Society’s Resource Marketplace
Phoenix Society’s Blog

Using the MAC Mentality to Survive & Thrive After a Burn Injury

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Connor McKemey, “CMAC” as he was known in college, burned 90% of his body, 75% in the third degree at 13 years of age, just before the Christmas holiday. In addition to Connor’s injuries, his mother also suffered burns that day due to aiding Connor in putting out the fire. Connor recalls a long road to recovery and shares that with a very low chance of survival, doctors aimed at keeping him alive just long enough to see his dad return home from Iraq over the holiday.

At 27 years old, Connor today shares his story of resilience, perseverance, and his ability not only to survive but thrive after his injuries. In this episode, Connor shares his own story of survival, one with both triumphs and tribulations—from both being afraid to look at his new self in the mirror to setting small goals to achieve big things (like walking at his middle school graduation)!

Connor’s positive outlook on life and his ability to thrive will leave listeners not only inspired, but wanting to learn more about what he now calls the “MAC Mentality.” As a motivational speaker and soon-to-be published author, Connor uses his Motivation, Attiude, and Courage as driving factors in his everyday life.

About Connor McKemey

A fire dramatically changed the trajectory of Connor McKemey’s life but would not define it.

At just 13 years old, Connor was burned over 90% of his body with third-degree burns and given less than a 1% chance of survival after a backyard explosion. After three months in a medically-induced coma, nearly two years of painful rehabilitation, and more than one hundred surgeries over a decade, Connor emerged triumphantly … not only to walk again and live his best life. He went on to play high school and Division I collegiate lacrosse and embarked on a career in coaching and managing an elite university lacrosse program. Through it all, he carved out a life-long mantra of mental resilience and toughness forged from years of dealing with the long journey back from the lowest possible points of just surviving … to thriving.

Connor sees his scars as symbols of survival rather than the wounds of a victim. His compelling message of courage and strength resonates with audiences long after an event is over. With brutal honesty and humility, Connor captures the hearts and minds of audiences, demonstrating how to move forward with grace, gratitude, and gut determination in the face of adversity. He inspires audiences to gain perspective and take action in their personal journey to attack life. His uncanny ability to share authentically and spark mind shifts in others is a testament to the power of his message and who he is as an individual.

Today, Connor travels the globe sharing his both powerful and inspirational message with companies and organizations large and small across a wide variety of industries.

Resources from the Show

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

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Donate Life Month: The Importance of Tissue Donation with Special Guest Jason Schechterle

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 13:00:00 +0000

With a lifelong dream of service and a family of military veterans, Jason had always felt a call to service. Jason gave up a high-school golf scholarship to join the U.S. Airforce, and later took a job with the Arizona public service where he worked while raising his family. It wasn’t until March 26, 1999, when Police Officer Marc Atkins was shot and killed after being ambushed by suspected drug traffickers that Jason decided to pursue a dream of becoming a police officer. Shortly after becoming an officer, however, Jason was struck while on patrol and burned over 40% of his body.

Inside this episode, we talk with Jason about his experience and recovery after the night of his accident, why he believes so passionately about the gift of tissue donation, and his journey to getting back out into the world as a burn survivor. Jason’s story will inspire, motivate, and encourage you to join forces this month in honor of Donate Life month to become an organ donor yourself!

About Jason Schechterle

Growing up, Jason had one dream - to serve as a Phoenix Police Officer. Inspired by the tragic loss of a local law enforcement hero, Jason worked persistently toward his dream. After serving four years in the Air Force, at the age of 26, Jason achieved his goal to work on the streets of Phoenix as a rookie police officer. Then, only 14 months into what was supposed to be a lifelong career, Jason's life took an unexpected, dramatic, and, at the time, tragic turn.

On the night of March 26th, 2001, a taxi cab crashed into the rear of Jason's patrol car. Upon impact, Jason's car burst into flames, trapping him inside with temperatures reaching over 700 degrees.

Through a series of miraculous and fateful circumstances, Jason survived the crash and the ensuing physical and emotional catastrophe. He suffered severe burns to over 40% of his body which drastically altered his appearance. He has undergone more than 55 surgeries just to have the ability to accomplish simple daily tasks we often take for granted.

Jason's journey chronicles his fight for life, his triumph over tragedy, and the inspiration that enables him to continue to overcome unimaginable adversity. His personal narrative exemplifies that the power of the human spirit can never be underestimated or extinguished.

His story is one of life, rebirth, and transformation. Jason represents the human experience at its very best - an ascent from despair to describing himself as the luckiest person alive!

Resources from the Show

About Allosource

AlloSource is one of the largest human tissue providers, honoring tissue donors by creating allografts to help patients heal from burn injuries, and they support burn survivors every step of the way.

https://allosource.org/

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show?

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Trauma Anniversaries: How to Honor Your ‘Burniversary’

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 16:00:00 +0000

The anniversary of the date of your burn injury trauma is a date for many that can be filled with lots of emotions, thoughts, and memories. For many, the date of your burn injury can bring both happiness of survival, while also mourning the loss and difficult tragedy that was the injury. In the burn survivor community, the ‘burniversary’ as it is called, doesn’t come with a set of instructions with the ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ ways to do it—the day itself is solely up to the survivor themselves how they choose to honor it.

In this episode, Amber and Rachel talk about their own burniversaries; Rachel celebrates 25 years on April 1st, and Amber celebrates 3 years on April 4th. The girls dive into what a burniversary is or is not, how it can be celebrated or mourned, and discuss all of the unique ways they have heard of other survivors choosing to spend that day. They take questions from the audience live and share their own personal thoughts about what a trauma anniversary is like from the point of view of a survivor.

About Rachel Kudlak

Rachel Kudlak is a burn survivor and marketing professional residing in Charleston, South Carolina. As the Marketing Lead, Rachel manages and leads Phoenix Society’s marketing and digital strategies. Before joining Phoenix Society’s team, Rachel served as the Marketing and Communications Phoenix Fellow and worked in the SEO/ORM industry. When not working, Rachel enjoys going on walks with her dog Remy, trying a new recipe, or binge-watching reality tv.

About Amber Wilcox

Amber Wilcox is a burn survivor, yoga instructor, and marketing professional from Ormond Beach, Florida. After her kitchen accident in 2020, Amber faced burns on 20% of her body from a hot caramel spill. After two skin graft surgeries from Orlando Regional Burn Center, Amber experienced hypertrophic scarring and underwent a series of laser burn surgeries at Tampa General Hospital. As a Revenue Operations Strategist, Amber enjoys helping a wide range of industry clients with their marketing and revenue needs. Amber enjoys volunteering for the Phoenix Society as a Peer Supporter, practicing yoga, and enjoying sunny Florida with her husband, dachshund Nala, and their soon-to-be baby boy!

Resources from the Show

About Gropper & Nejat

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show?

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Supporting Burn Survivors: An Occupational Therapist’s Perspective with Rebekah Allely

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 13:30:00 +0000

Just after college, Rebekah Allely was given the opportunity to intern for a short time in a burn unit in Wisconsin. It was in that single month of time in the burn unit that she fell in love with her experience and knew it was exactly what she was meant to do. To this day, the impact that the burn unit had on Rebekah is imminent—she still remembers her very first patient. Knowing she had found her passion, Rebekah sent letters to over 20 burn units across the country, and shortly after finding her home at MedStar Health in Washington, D.C.

In this episode, we talk with Rebekah about her experience as an Occupational Therapist in a burn unit, discuss her experience with Phoenix Society for Burn Survivor’s SOAR program, and hear firsthand from Rebekah about must-dos in Washington, D.C.—the location for the 2023 Phoenix World Burn Congress.

About Rebekah Allely

Rebekah Allely received her BA in Mental Health/Human Services from Franciscan University in 1983 and a BA in Occupational Therapy in 1985 from Eastern Michigan University. Rebekah has been a burn rehab therapist at MedStar Washington Hospital Center (MWHC) for 37 years. Rebekah works with patients across the continuum of care from the Burn ICU to the outpatient setting and throughout aftercare programming. Rebekah works closely with the MWHC laser program assessing and treating scars for years post-injury.

Rebekah is a Phoenix SOAR coordinator. She enjoys teaching social skills training and an overview of burn rehabilitation to new nurses. Rebekah volunteers with the DC Firefighter Burn Foundation providing aftercare programming including local outdoor events, taking patients annually to The Adaptive Sports Center in Colorado for a week of outdoor programming, organizing burn retreats, and taking burn survivors to Phoenix World Burn Congress.

Resources from the Show

Things To Do in Washington, D.C. While Attending Phoenix World Burn Congress

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show?

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Scars & Stars: Astrophysicist & Child Burn Survivor Hadi Papei

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Hadi Papei saw his first burn survivor at the age of 29 when he saw a post of Turia Pitt, an Australian Engineer, and fellow burn survivor on Facebook. Burned at the age of three, Hadi’s first-ever encounter with another survivor nearly 26 years later left him mind-blown and emotionally struck by what he had seen. Spending the next week searching the internet about his injuries, searching for other burn survivors like himself, Hadi found Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors and began to join a community of others that looked just like him.

In this episode, Hadi shares his experience as a child burn survivor growing up in Iran, and how uncovering the burn community many years later has changed his life. We also talk with Hadi about his experience as an Astrophysicist, what it means to study galaxies and the stars within it, and how he recently defended his Ph.D. publicly with the help of the tools he learned from his burn community.

About Hadi Papei

Hadi is an astrophysicist, teacher, and science communicator. Hadi was born and raised in Iran, where he finished his undergraduate degree in Physics while self-teaching himself English with a dream of coming to the US for graduate studies. He went to the US and received two M.Sc. degrees in Physics and Mathematics at the University of Minnesota Duluth. He later went to the Western University in Canada and obtained his Ph.D. in Astrophysics. At the moment, he is continuing his research at the same university. Hadi was burned in a kitchen accident with hot oil at the age of three on his face and shoulder and joined the burn survivor community only at the age of 29. Connecting with other burn survivors was a life-changing moment for Hadi and helped him to accept his scars for the first time.

Resources from the Show

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Beauty Influencer & Burn Survivor Tonya Meisenbach Shares Beauty Tips & Inspiration for Getting Back Out There After a Burn Injury

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 01:30:00 +0000

On December 17th, 2018, Tonya and her husband were enjoying an evening outside by the fire getting ready to make a meal, when her husband sprayed lighter fluid on the fire and the wind shifted, causing Tonya to burn 35% of her body. In this episode, Tonya talks about her journey after the injury, including how she became a beauty influencer, what it was like to recover from her injury after spending 2 months in a coma, and what it was like seeing herself in the mirror for the first time.

Today, Tonya has a global following on social media, inspiring her audience through beauty and a path of resilience after a burn injury. Join us as Tonya shares with us her inspiration, wisdom, and advocacy as a burn survivor and social media influencer in her community.

About Tonya Meisenbach

Tonya Meisenbach, better known as Burned Beauty 2018, is a wife, mother of two adult children, luminary, and humanitarian currently living in Atlanta, GA.

Tonya now uses hair, makeup, tutorials, and social media to help inspire other burn survivors in their recovery. She wants all survivors to understand that their wounds will heal and that with the right mindset, they can accomplish anything and overcome any obstacle thrown in their path.

Stay Connected with Tonya:

Resources from the Show

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show?

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Honoring the 20-Year Anniversary of the Station Nightclub Fire

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 16:00:00 +0000

On February 20th, 2003, the Station Nightclub Fire in West Warwick, Rhode Island occurred killing 100 people and injuring 230. The fire began when the band Jack Russell's Great White set off fireworks in the building which caused flames to quickly spread throughout the building. Today, we honor both the 100 that lost their lives because of the tragic event, while also honoring the survivors like Gina Russo, who are here today to tell their stories, and share the important message of advocacy for fire safety in our community.

In this episode, we talk with Gina Russo and Amy Acton, Phoenix Society’s CEO about the event, hear Gina’s account of what happened that evening, and dive deep into learning more about the importance of advocacy and fire safety awareness to prevent events like these from happening again. Gina shares more about her 20-year healing journey, and how she plans to both honor and remember the event on this monumental anniversary.

About Gina Russo

Gina Russo was born and raised in Cranston, Rhode Island. She is a mother to two amazing sons and has worked at the local hospital for 32 years, In 2003, she and her fiancé attended a concert at the Station Nightclub in West Warwick that turned into a deadly blaze, killing 100 including her fiancé Freddy.

Gina survived the accident with 3rd and 4th degree burns to 40% of her body - and she only learned about Freddy's death after coming out of a medically induced coma 12 weeks later.

In 2009, she self-published a book titled “From The Ashes.” It was written for a therapeutic reason but wanted to share her story with others. She is proud to share that the book went on to sell for 3,500+ copies and opened up a world of public speaking about living and surviving such a tragic event.

About Amy Acton

Amy Acton is the Chief Executive Officer of Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, where she has served the organization for over 20 years. Amy is a burn survivor, former burn nurse, and leading advocate for the burn community. She has dedicated her career to promoting the expansion of burn recovery services and resources for burn survivors and their loved ones.

Since 1998, Amy has served as a critical bridge to the communities of survivors and healthcare professionals alike, ensuring that both communities are seen and heard to help create positive outcomes for both. Amy began her career as a nurse and later nurse manager of the burn unit at Spectrum Health Regional Burn Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where she herself was treated at the age of 18 for an electrical burn injury. Since becoming the CEO of Phoenix Society, Amy has played a critical role in building the organization to the leading national resource it is today.

Read Amy’s Full Bio

Resources from the Show

About Our Partner, NFSA

For over a century, the National Fire Sprinkler Association has been advocating for a stronger industry and a safer world by promoting fire sprinklers in model codes and legislation. Their mission is simple: “To protect lives and property from fire through the widespread acceptance of the fire sprinkler concept.” NFSA is the premier resource for quality education in the fire industry.

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show?

Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Finding Love After a Burn Injury: Nasia Houvardas & Dan Plexman

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 17:00:00 +0000

For a burn survivor, dating and finding love after a burn injury may seem overwhelming and impossible. A ‘new normal’ may take many years to discover, and for many burn survivors, having confidence may be a skill that takes a long time to develop.

For burn survivors Dan & Nasia, this also rang true. As survivors living completely different lives in separate countries, love had not come to mind. At the time of their injuries, both survivors were in existing relationships that ended after their accidents. But what began as a supportive friendship for Dan and Nasia through their burn survivor experiences became a love story they’d never imagined.

In this episode, we celebrate Valentine’s Day, a day of love—with two burn survivors that have found love after trauma. Dan and Nasia’s inspiring stories of hope, passion for what they love, and compassion for one another is a journey you will not soon forget.

About Anthanasia (Nasia) Houvardas

Athanasia, which in Greek means eternal life, is a speaker, artist, art therapist, and advocator for road safety and burn trauma. She is originally from Greece, and since 2016, she has been traveling between Greece and Canada, where she happily lives with her husband, Dan Plexman.

In 2001, she watched her life change in one split second. She was involved in a horrific car accident where she lost two friends. Her body suffered 74% of 3rd and 4th-degree burns, and she came close to losing her life.

Reality hit her hard. Not only she lost her friends, but she also lost her identity. Fragments of her old self while looking in the mirror shattered her.

During the long road to recovery and to strengthen her injured hands, she was introduced to painting. She found the process to be a form of mental and emotional therapy. Bringing life to blank canvasses felt like she was returning to life herself.

This feeling sparked the desire to develop her skills further. Today she is a proud member of the Greek Artists Association and grateful for having her art displayed in numerous exhibitions in Europe and Canada. It is truly fulfilling.

But this was not the end. Since she experienced the emotional healing power of art, she decided to become a certified Art therapist. As an Art Therapist, she enjoys guiding her clients on a mindfulness journey, where they are relieved from stress and anxiety and reconnect with themselves to progress toward a positive change.

Her health challenges made her realize that life is fragile and precious. With the hope that no one else goes through what she and her family went through, she started sharing her story with different audiences in Greece, Italy, and Canada to promote road safety and road accident prevention.

About Dan Plexman

Dan is your average guy on a mission to keep workers safe! A preventable workplace accident changed Dan’s life forever. Now, he speaks from a depth of experience few know when he stresses:

Plan & Prepare. Prevent & Protect.

Dan was working alone in a man lift that came in close proximity to live overhead power lines. An electrical arc fire caught him in an inferno that caused 3rd to 6th-degree burns to 60% of his body.

Without a practiced emergency rescue plan, panic and mass confusion set in, and this made rescue efforts completely ineffective.

Since beating the odds of a 13% chance of survival and enduring over ten years of constant surgeries, Dan has learned to accept his “new normal” life.

Dan feels obligated to promote a safety culture that will keep everyone safe in the home, in the schoolyard, and at the workplace. Learn more about Dan’s story: https://www.danplexman.com/dans-story.html

Resources from the Show

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

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Hot Liquids Burn Like Fire: Discussing National Burn Awareness Week with Burn Survivor Jane Fayer

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 17:00:00 +0000

National Burn Awareness Week, by the American Burn Association, is a week dedicated to educating and sharing information with our communities about the prevention of burns. This year, National Burn Awareness Week is held from February 5th-11th and will focus on spreading awareness of preventing scald burn injuries with the title of the week “Hot Liquids Burn Like Fire,” focusing on scald burns. A scald burn, unlike other types of burns, is often caused by something wet, such as water or steam.

In 2015-2019, NFPA reported that cooking was the leading cause of reported home fires and home fire injuries and the second leading cause of home fire deaths. In addition, non-fire cooking-related burns far exceed the number of reported home cooking fires, with approximately 70,000 cooking-related burn visits to U.S. emergency departments annually from 2015-2019.

In this episode, we talk with a scald burn survivor about her healing journey, how she found Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, and what inspires her to give back through sharing her story as a Phoenix SOAR (SURVIVORS OFFERING ASSISTANCE IN RECOVERY) Peer Supporter. In addition, we’ll focus our episode on ways to prevent scald burn injuries and share tips from scald burn survivors.

About Jane Fayer

Jane Fayer was burned in a scald accident on her birthday and the day before her father’s funeral in October 2020 in the middle of the pandemic. She is a hidden burn survivor and was connected to the Phoenix Society a few months later, which played a large role in her recovery. She is a SOAR Peer Supporter and frequently moderates the Wednesday evening FB chats. Jane has been working in the pharmaceutical industry in various clinical development positions for the last 25 years. She is currently a consultant specializing in contracts for outsourced clinical trials. In her spare time, she loves walking, Pilates, reading, and kayaking.

Resources from the Show

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show?

Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

KECHI OKWUCHI: Burn Survivor, America's Got Talent Finalist, Nigerian-born Author, and Singer

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 17:01:00 +0000

On December 10, 2005, Kechi was flying home for the Christmas holiday in Nigeria with 60 other high school students and close friends when the plane crashed, leaving her one of only two survivors of the crash. Kechi sustained 3rd degree burns over 65% of her body, with a 30% chance of survival. In 2007, after beginning her recovery in South Africa, Kechi was brought to America to be treated at Shriner’s hospital for reconstructive surgery.

In this episode, we talk with Kechi about her road to recovery, how she discovered her love of song, what it was like to be on America’s Got Talent and learn more about her new album and memoir. Kechi shares intimate details about her road to recovery, gives her audience words of inspiration, and shares her joy of life with her audience.

About Kechi

Kechi found her true voice after her accident- a plane crash that took the lives of 107 of 109 passengers in Nigeria in 2005. Throughout the difficult journey of burns recovery, Kechi was sustained by her Christian faith, her family, and her music. Becoming a finalist on America’s Got Talent 2017 was Kechi’s truest dream realized, and on June 10th, 2018, she released her debut single, ‘Don’t You Dare’ on all digital music platforms. In 2019, Kechi became a finalist on the premiere season of America’s Got Talent: The Champions through Simon Cowell’s golden buzzer. Kechi’s memoir ‘More Than My Scars’ released on March 29th, 2022 under Baker Publishing Group, and her self-titled debut album is currently streaming on all digital music platforms.

Kechi hopes to use her voice and her story to ignite hope all over the world within those that need it.

Resources from the Show

Sponsor Girls with Grafts

Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

The Power of Peer Support Featuring Clinical Social Worker Jenn Harris & Rich Casias, Burn Survivor

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 21:33:35 +0000

In addition to the difficulties that burn survivors face in physical healing after a burn injury, burn survivors require assistance with the psychological challenges they face, such as a new identity and additional challenges with scarring and hospitalization. While it is important to have psychological assistance from trained mental health professionals, peer support has been clinically proven to aid recovery after a burn injury.

In this episode, we discuss with a clinical social worker and Phoenix Society’s Virtual Peer Support facilitator Jenn Harris, and burn survivor and trained Phoenix SOAR peer supporter Rich Casias about the various methods of peer support, why they’re important, and how to get involved.

About Jennifer Harris, MSW, LICSW

Jennifer Harris, MSW, LICSW, is a Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist working extensively with people impacted by trauma, loss, and grief for the past 15 years. Jenn began her Clinical Social Work career at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, MA, where she worked with people impacted by the onset of trauma, illness, end of life, and bereavement. While at MGH, she developed a curiosity about how trauma/loss impacts people’s emotional well-being. She completed a yearlong certificate program in Trauma Informed Care from the Simmons School of Social Work, which deepened her expertise to support people in coping to navigating “not what is wrong with me, but what happened to me”. Currently, she works in private practice. She has been involved with the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors for the past 9yrs in various capacities, including starting the virtual peer support group three years ago. She also facilitates support groups for trauma/loss survivors and provides consultation to organizations to support their programming impact on people coping with trauma and loss. For the past 12yrs, Jenn has been a volunteer Healing Circle Leader with Comfort Zone Camp, a weekend-long program to support children/families experiencing grief.

About Rich Casias

Rich Casias is a burn survivor and works as a California Professional Geologist in the northern California region. As a Phoenix SOAR Peer Supporter and Peer Support Trainer, he is energized by assisting burn survivors to learn to rebuild their self-confidence and advocate for themselves and others in the burn community.

Resources from the Show

Our Sponsor

A special thank you to our Season One Sponsor, Pritzker Hageman. The Pritzker Hageman burn injury legal team helps burn survivors and their loved ones pursue compensation and justice throughout the United States. If you have legal questions, the attorneys at Pritzker Hageman are ready to help. Find out more at LegalJourney.guide

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Zach & DJ Sutterfield Share Fire Safety Tips, Discuss Traumatic Brain and Burn Injuries, and Life After a Burn Injury

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 14:37:48 +0000

Zach Sutterfield drove early in his junior year of college in July of 2018 to visit his campus at Texas State University with plans to crash on his best friend’s couch while waiting to move into his own apartment when someone set fire to the apartment building. With 68% of his body burned, and a traumatic brain injury, Zach has spent the last four years receiving countless surgeries for his injuries.

In this episode, we’re joined by Zach and his mom, DJ, as we discuss the critical importance of continued education for fire safety, learn from Zach what it is like living with both burns and traumatic brain injury, and learn more about how Zach and DJ are doing today with Sons of the Flag, an organization helping first responders and military families with their burn injury recovery.

About Zach & DJ Sutterfield

Zachary Sutterfield is a 24-year-old college student, brother, friend, and son who is living his best life after receiving serious injuries when someone set his apartment on fire on 20 July 2018. Zach received 3rd-degree full-thickness burns to 68% of his body, a traumatic brain injury, and became a double amputee within weeks of the fire. Zach spent over 17 months in a medical facility where he had to relearn the fundamentals of life. Everything from feeding himself to learning to walk again. After recovering from his injuries, his mission in life has changed, but his tenacity has not. His mission now is to educate and promote fire safety. Zach dreams of becoming a teacher and working for Teach for America but now has devoted himself to the mission of fire safety and prevention. He is excited that he will still be an educator on such an important issue that impacts everyone. Today Zach receives his health care from Sons of the Flag. To date, Zach has had 33 surgeries. The latest of which provided him with a thumb. The Sons of the Flag continue to improve Zach’s life and well-being. Not only have they provided him with life-altering surgeries, but they have also given him brotherhood and friendship.

DJ Sutterfield is a wife, mother, veteran, caregiver, and fire safety advocate. She is married to her best friend and soul mate Karl Sutterfield. They have two wonderful boys, Danny and Zachary. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Angelo State University. DJ served as a medic in the US Army, the Hawaii National Guard and the Texas National Guard. She also trained and served as FEMA’s Surge Capacity Force member during Hurricane Irma. Serving her community has always been a passion for DJ. Today she has turned her passion into purpose. She hopes that by sharing her family’s story, she can educate others on the importance of fire prevention education and building safety.

Resources from the Show

Our Sponsor

A special thank you to our Season One Sponsor, Pritzker Hageman. The Pritzker Hageman burn injury legal team helps burn survivors, and their loved ones pursue compensation and justice throughout the United States. If you have legal questions, the attorneys at Pritzker Hageman are ready to help. Find out more at LegalJourney.guide

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Good Grief—Managing Your Feelings During the Holidays with Jennifer Harris, MSW, LICSW

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 15:45:00 +0000

The holiday season brings a lot of different and, at times, conflicting emotions. Why do we feel ‘grief,’ and why can grief feel more present, bigger, or deeper during this time of year? In this episode, we talk with Jennifer Harris, MSW, LICSW, about grief—in all forms. Grief, described by Webster’s Dictionary as “the pain of mind produced by loss, misfortune, injury, or evils of any kind; sorrow; regret”, is not an emotion we ever desire to feel—especially in a season pressured to feel immense joy.

As a self-proclaimed ‘grief’ nerd, Jenn Harris talks about why we feel it, how to manage it, and when to know when grief has become too much for us to handle. We dive deep into this topic and listen to Jenn’s wisdom about her own grief journey and working with and supporting others with grief. In a phrase she borrows from a friend, Grief is “not moving on, but moving with.” In the burn community, we may experience many different types of grief—from loss of self to loss of a loved one, or even feelings of grief over the idea of gathering with family during this time of year. Jenn shares with us her wisdom and knowledge from her experiences as a therapist, Phoenix Society Virtual Support facilitator, and her experience with volunteering at Comfort Zone Camp, a program supporting children and families that are experiencing grief.

About Jennifer Harris, MSW, LICSW

Jennifer Harris, MSW, LICSW, is a Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist working extensively with people impacted by trauma, loss, and grief for the past 15 years. Jenn began her Clinical Social Work career at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, MA, where she worked with people impacted by the onset of trauma, illness, end of life, and bereavement. While at MGH, she developed a curiosity about how trauma/loss impacts people’s emotional well-being. She completed a yearlong certificate program in Trauma Informed Care from the Simmons School of Social Work, which deepened her expertise to support people in navigating “not what is wrong with me, but what happened to me”. Currently, she works in private practice. She has been involved with the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors for the past 9yrs in various capacities, including starting the virtual peer support group three years ago. She also facilitates support groups for trauma/loss survivors and provides consultation to organizations to support their programming impact on people coping with trauma and loss. For the past 12yrs, Jenn has been a volunteer Healing Circle Leader with Comfort Zone Camp, a weekend-long program to support children/families experiencing grief.

Resources from the Show

Our Sponsor

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

She is a Fighter: Poet, Author, Burn Survivor, and Mother, Octavia Burney Talks Motherhood, Writing, and Recovery with Furry Friends After a Burn Injury

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 02:04:23 +0000

After a burn injury, burn survivors often face both emotional and physical pain that can make moving through trauma difficult. Following her burn injury, Octavia Burney’s husband decided to find her a furry friend to focus her attention on while she recovered at home alone. Marty, Octavia’s dog, became a great companion and aid in working through her trauma, and later, became an inspiration for her children’s book, Marty.

Octavia shares both triumphs and tribulations with her recovery and how she overcame the fear of showing her scars. In this episode, Octavia shares her burn injury story, reads an excerpt from her book, discusses becoming a mother after a burn injury, and much more.

About Octavia Burney

Octavia Burney is an author, burn survivor, poet, business owner, and speaker. She has over 15 years of experience in healthcare and infectious diseases. Originally from South Hill, VA, she grew up in a single-parent home with 4 sisters and 1 brother, she is the youngest of nine siblings.

She released her first book in February 2019, “The Storm Saved Me” where she shares her testimony and how her faith in God pulled her through. She is working on her master's in mental health counseling and professional writing. She believes faith, courage, and creativity equal excellence.

Resources from the Show

Get your copy of Marty
Read The Storm Saved Me
Visit Octavia’s Website
Follow Octavia on Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube
Rate, Subscribe, and Review Phoenix Society’s Girls with Grafts Podcast
Check out additional content here: Phoenix Society’s Blog or View Our Resources
Check out Phoenix Society’s Burn Community Bookshelf
Connect to Receive Peer Support
Purchase Your Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors & Girls with Grafts Swag

Our Sponsor

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

I'm a Fighter: NHL Player, Burn Survivor, and Visualization Expert, Aaron Volpatti

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 14:40:01 +0000

Setting a goal and visualizing his future kept Aaron Volpatti going when he burned 40% of his body at the young age of 19. Aaron’s passion and love of hockey came to what he thought would be an abrupt halt in 2005, but his determination continued, ultimately leading him to a 5-year career playing professional hockey.

In this episode, we talk with the former NHL player for the Vancouver Canucks and Washington Capitals as he shares his story as a burn survivor and the intimate details of his journey to playing for the NHL through his work with visualization. Aarons shares an example of what it means to ‘visualize’ your future and discusses how his passion for hockey continued to drive his ability to overcome adversity with his burn injury and beyond.

About Aaron Volpatti

Aaron Volpatti is an Author, Cognitive Performance and Injury Coach, Speaker, retired NHL player, burn survivor, and a Brown University- B.Sc Human Biology graduate. A pioneer in Cinematic Visualization and athletic performance, Aaron’s unique practice has helped athletes worldwide.

Born and raised in Revelstoke, British Columbia, he is a guitar aficionado and wannabe rockstar. He’s a professional dabbler—spending his free time fishing, hunting, camping, golfing, playing squash, or learning a new musical instrument or language.

Aaron resides in the beautiful Okanagan in British Columbia with his wife Michelle and his son Finn.

Resources from the Show

Get your copy of ‘Fighter: Defying the NHL Odds’
Visit Aaron’s website
Follow Aaron Volpatti: Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn
Download the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors State of the (Burn) Survivor Report
Rate, Subscribe, and Review Phoenix Society’s Girls with Grafts Podcast
Check out additional content here: Phoenix Society’s Blog, View Our Resources
Purchase Your Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors & Girls with Grafts Swag

Our Sponsor

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Season One Podcast Sponsor Pritzker Hageman Discuss Legal Action After a Burn Injury with Special Guest Host Hailey Boyce of Team Courage Rising

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 19:35:01 +0000

After a burn injury, many survivors and their loved ones seek to gather resources of all kinds—and for many, legal counsel is an area that may be sought out to understand if the injuries sustained warrant legal action. While there may be a lot happening for a survivor and their family during this early recovery time, many may have questions about what legal action after an injury may look like.

In this episode, we talk about commonly asked questions regarding legal action after a burn injury, seek to understand and learn more about the complexities of a personal injury case, and take real-time questions from burn survivors who seek to understand more about hiring a legal attorney.

With the help of our guest host and Courage Rising member Hailey Boyce, we talk with our Season One sponsor, Pritzker Hageman, and learn more about Hailey’s recent Mt. Kilimanjaro climb!

About Our Guests

Eric Hageman and David Coyle are burn-injury lawyers at Pritzker Hageman, P.A., a national law firm that helps burn survivors obtain justice. Eric has been a plaintiffs’ lawyer, exclusively representing injured people, for over 27 years, while David has almost ten years of experience. Along with the other lawyers at Pritzker Hageman, Eric and David work together with their clients to pursue accountability for people who have been harmed through the negligence of others.

Hailey Boyce is a burn survivor and a member of Team Courage Rising. Hailey’s accident happened in 2016. Her vaporizer malfunctioned and blew up, causing 2nd & 3rd-degree burns on 30% of her body. In June, she summited Kilimanjaro. The trek up Kilimanjaro was organized so seven other survivors and Hailey could help raise funds for the new Arizona burn center. The team at Valleywise did an amazing job taking care of me during my recovery, I wanted to give back in any way I could. There is also a documentary being released in April about survivorship, recovery, & the Kilimanjaro hike.

Resources from the Show

Our Sponsor

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Celebrating Giving Tuesday with Girls with Grafts— What’s New with Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, Getting to Know the Girls with Grafts Duo, and More!

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Known for the Season of Giving—the holidays provide an opportunity to celebrate the year and show appreciation for those around us. In this season of giving, we spend time with loved ones, shopping for that perfect gift, and taking time for gratitude during the season. On the heels of Black Friday—one of the busiest shopping days of the year comes Giving Tuesday—an opportunity for people worldwide to unite to thank, help, give, show kindness, and share what they have with those in need.

Giving Tuesday, held on November 29th, 2022, is a global generosity movement—that unleashes the power of radical generosity to transform communities and the world. Created in 2012, this day encourages people to do good—and has done just that for ten years! There are many ways to share your generosity on this day—and the Girls with Grafts team shares a few of the ways to do that with Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. Even in this time of economic uncertainty, we each have a deep reserve of generosity, which can be deployed in various ways on this special day, you can read a few in our resources below.

In addition to discussing Giving Tuesday, Girls with Grafts joins together for a special episode sharing their personal experiences with their burn injuries while highlighting the work they do daily as Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors’ Marketing team.

To donate to Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors & Girls with Grafts this Giving Tuesday, click here.

There are many ways to support Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors this Giving Tuesday—but for those that choose to give a monetary donation, we invite you to read the information below.

Your gift of $50 can provide personalized wellness services and support for two burn survivors through Phoenix Society's information and referral programs, reaching an average of 1,800 survivors every year.
With your gift of $100, you can provide 30 patients with a copy of Journey Magazine, a free publication for the burn community provided to more than 75 hospitals with resources, stories, and updates directly delivered three times/year.
Your gift of $250 can support one hour of Virtual Support Group. Virtual Support Group is a vital connection for burn survivors and loved ones located anywhere in the world.
Every donation of $25 or more given between November 23, 2022 - November 30, 2022, will receive a 10% off coupon to Phoenix Society's online store.

Resources from the Show

Our Sponsor

Child Burn Survivor, John O’Leary: Best-Selling Author, Inspirational Speaker, and Founder of Live Inspired

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 21:02:00 +0000

When John O’Leary was nine, a fire exploded, leaving him with burns on 100% of his body. Doctors gave him a 1% chance of surviving—yet he did. And after enduring months in a hospital bed and years of physical therapy, John woke up to what really matters.

Once expected to die, John now teaches others how to live. He uses his journey as a burn survivor and shares his perspective to awaken you to your life’s potential and energize you to live more thoughtfully and boldly.

About John O’Leary

In 1987, John O’Leary was a curious nine-year-old boy. Playing with fire and gasoline, John created a massive explosion in his home and was burned on 100% of his body. He was given 1% chance to live. This epic story of survival was first showcased in his parents’ book, Overwhelming Odds, in 2006. It was this book that first invited John to embrace his miraculous recovery and share it with the world.

Today, John is the author of the instant #1 National Bestselling book ON FIRE: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life and an inspirational speaker teaching more than 50,000 people around the world each year how to live inspired.

Our Sponsor

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Resources from the Show:

➡️ John’s Website

➡️ Speaker Request for John O’Leary

➡️ Live Inspired Podcast

➡️ John’s Books

➡️ Share Your Story with Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors

➡️ Resources from Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors

➡️ Support Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors

Parenting After a Burn Injury: Brittney & Henley Horton

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 21:15:00 +0000

Brittney Horton experienced the unthinkable in 2015 when her 10-month-old, Henley Horton, climbed up onto their brick hearth and placed her hand on a glass fireplace resulting in 3rd-degree burns. Henley’s journey to recovery began a week after her accident, where she has since received two surgeries to help repair her hand. In this podcast, Brittney and Henley share their own personal stories and how Henley is recovering today.

In addition to being a mom, Brittney is also a social media influencer with over 312K followers on Instagram. She shares her mommy tips, fashion tricks, and openly honest conversation on social media and in her blog. We dive deep into the conversation to discuss mommy guilt, being a parent of a burn survivor, and the power of peer support for other burn survivors and their parents.

About Brittney & Henley Horton

Brittney Horton is a wife, and mom of three and loves sharing her daily adventure of mommyhood, style, design, and all the messy stuff life has to offer! Henley Horton is a seven-year-old who loves gymnastics and coloring.

Our Sponsor

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Resources from the Show

➡️ Follow Brittney on Instagram

➡️ Brittney’s Blog

➡️ Henley’s Story

➡️ Tips for Parents & Caregivers of Child Burn Survivors

➡️ Tips for Parents: Advocating for Your Child’s Educational Needs

➡️ Moving Forward From Guilt, A Parent’s Perspective

➡️ Become a Peer Supporter

➡️ Find a Burn Center Near You

➡️ Rehearse Your Response Burn Survivor Tool

➡️ Donate to Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors

Phyllida Swift, CEO of Face Equality International

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 17:52:01 +0000

We’re talking today with Phyllida Swift, Chief Executive Officer of Face Equality International about her journey of survival, her role as a young, female leader for an international organization, and discuss areas of opportunity for support for facial equality across the globe. Phyllida shares campaigns she’s currently working on with her team, including her recent Halloween campaign highlighting facial scars and how they are represented publicly, how artificial intelligence is (or is not) recognizing facial differences, and invites the audience to stay tuned for an upcoming May 2023 Face Equality Week.

About Phyllida Swift

Phyllida is an appearance activist and the CEO of Face Equality International, an NGO campaigning to end the discrimination and indignity experienced by the global facial difference community.

After sustaining facial scars in a car accident in 2016, she set out to reshape the negative narratives that dictate the public perception of scars and disfigurements. Her TEDX explores the harms caused by disproportionately poor media representation of facial difference via villains and vulnerable people on screen.

About Face Equality International (FEI)

Face Equality International is an alliance of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), charities and support groups which are working at national, regional or international levels to promote the campaign for ‘face equality’.

Our Sponsor

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Resources from the Show

➡️ Face Equality International Website

➡️ Article about AI

➡️ Sign the Pledge For Face Equality

➡️ Share Your Story with FEI

➡️ Changing Faces Book

➡️ Phyllida’s TedX

Amber Escudero-Kontostathis: Burn Survivor, Lightning Strike Survivor, and Advocate

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 16:02:00 +0000

Amber Escudero-Kontostathis is the sole survivor of a deadly lightning strike. On August 4th, Amber was advocating outside the White House for Threshold Giving, a nonprofit organization through the International Rescue Committee that helps refugees. When it began to rain, Amber and three others took cover under a tree that would later be struck by lightning. Just a few months later, Amber is now sharing her survivor story, her struggles on the road to recovery, and continuing to advocate for others.

About Amber Escudero-Kontostathis:

Hailing from Thousand Oaks, CA, Amber graduated from Pepperdine University, majoring in International Studies with an emphasis on the Middle East and North Africa. After traveling the world to places like London, Spain, Jordan, Ireland, Cuba, Morocco, and the UAE, Amber lived in Jordan for over a year where she helped teach English to kids. Inspired to action through her travels, Amber started in the non-profit/fundraising world in 2016. She joined the Threshold team in August 2021 and overseas operations for Threshold’s IRC fundraising campaign in Washington, DC.

Resources from the Show

➡️ Watch Amber’s Interview with Good Morning America

➡️ Learn more about Threshold Giving

➡️ Learn more about MedStar Washington Hospital Center

➡️ Sign Up for Updates About Phoenix World Burn Congress

➡️ Subscribe to our newsletter or Journey Magazine

➡️ Donate to Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors

➡️ Share your burn survivor story, or read others

➡️ Information about Itching for Burn Scars

➡️ Join Phoenix Society's Virtual Support Group or Peer Support Chat

J.R. Martinez: Army Veteran, Burn Survivor, Actor, Motivational Speaker, Best-Selling Author, and Dancing with the Stars Season 13 Winner

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 16:00:00 +0000

For burn survivors like J.R. Martinez, telling his story to inspire was both a valuable and gratifying way to help others, and in turn, also help with his own healing. J.R. used what Phoenix Society calls the healing power of peer support that has helped thousands of burn survivors over the years.

When J.R. told his story, the local and national media listened—and his resilience, charm, and optimism were some of what earned him spots on both All My Children and Dancing with the Stars. In this episode, we talk with J.R. about his journey to motivational speaking, acting, and of course, Dancing with the Stars.

About J.R. Martinez

J.R. Martinez is an Army veteran, burn survivor, actor, motivational speaker, New York Times best-selling author and Dancing with the Stars season 13 winner. J.R has traveled the world speaking with troops at various bases, as well as serving as keynote speaker for numerous major corporate events, non-profits, Universities and Fortune 500 companies. J.R. devotes himself to spreading his message of resilience and optimism.

Our Sponsor, Pritzker Hageman

Resources from the Show

JRMartinez.com
Facebook: @iamjrmartinez
Twitter: @iamjrmartinez
Instagram: @iamjrmartinez
Buy Full of Heart: My Story of Survival, Strength, and Spirit

Resources from Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Cheering On Charlie: A Loved One’s Journey Supporting a Burn Survivor

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 19:44:36 +0000

After a burn injury, burn survivors often face a lifelong journey to healing. While the burn injury itself directly impacts the life of the survivor—caregivers, family members, and loved ones that support the burn survivor also face new challenges in the new roles they have taken on.

Today we’re chatting with the Xavier’s about their story of survival, and discuss Andre’s new book, I Almost Lost Her, now available on Amazon.

About “I Almost Lost Her”

I Almost Lost Her is the story of Charlie’s ongoing healing and André’s acceptance of his own vulnerability. Readers follow the couple’s journey through adversity, the highs and lows, and everything in between. Ultimately, in the face of great suffering, Charlie and André learn to feel fear and pain, then release it so they may remain focused on their new and beautiful life. In their highly-anticipated debut book, André and Charlie remind us that strength, faith, and love are the cornerstones of enduring partnerships—no matter how bleak the circumstance. No matter how difficult the fight.

About the Xavier’s

André Xavier

André Xavier is a successful entrepreneur and author from Sao Paulo, Brazil. In 2021, he was transformed through the trauma of nearly losing his wife, Charlie Anne, to a tragic workplace accident. While running their businesses and raising their two beautiful children while Charlie recovered, André revived his life through advocacy, vulnerability, and enduring love. When not active in the business setting, Andre enjoys spending time with his family and on his self-development.

Charlie Xavier

Charlie Anne Xavier, born in Bristol, TN is a mother of two boys and burn survivor from a horrific work accident, that left her with 85% of her body burned on the 3rd degree, Charlie Anne survival is a miracle and she is a inspiration to so many, Charlie’s incredible journey not only transformed her body, but her mind and soul, Charlie’s mission is to give back and inspire anyone struggling with life’s adversity, and her unique ability to connect and inspire is a gift and her words will be sure move you.

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Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Show Resources

Get Involved with Phoenix Society

Fire Safety: Celebrating 100 Years of National Fire Prevention Week

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 16:00:00 +0000

Today’s fires burn hotter and faster in homes, with a rising number of home fire-related deaths. Nearly 2,500-3,000 deaths occur annually due to home fires, with new challenges in prevention arising in today’s world. Join us as we talk with National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Vice President of Outreach and Advocacy, Lorraine Carli, and Executive Chairman and Board Member of Telgian Holdings, Inc.’s Russ Leavitt about 100 years of National Fire Prevention Week, fire prevention and advocacy, and quick tips to keep your home and family safe.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Resources Shared on The Show:

Check out National Fire Prevention Week (Courtesy of NFPA) fact sheets, information, and how to start your campaign here.

Join Sparky for online fun with NFPA Kids.

Donate to Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, Host of Girls with Grafts.

Subscribe to Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors.

Girls with Grafts Introduction with Special Guest, Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors CEO, Amy Acton

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 18:53:00 +0000

The journey for a burn survivor can be long and complicated, not only physically challenging but emotionally complex. Each week, your hosts, also two burn survivors, join as they talk with the burn community about prevention and advocacy and discuss their journeys to emotional and physical healing with survivors. The Girls with Grafts podcast, hosted by Amber Wilcox and Rachel Anderson, Phoenix Society’s marketing team, is a Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors podcast for survivors, caregivers, hospital staff, and corporate partners within the community.

Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors is the leading connector for those affected by a burn injury, the primary resource for quality information and education, and the trusted authority for all in the burn community. The organization sees a future where the voice of the burn community unites across the globe to profoundly advance lifelong healing, optimal recovery, and burn prevention. Together, we want to ensure that no one facing the life-changing effects of a burn injury is forced to journey through healing alone.

Enjoyed the show? Tell us on social media using the hashtag #GirlswithGrafts and tagging Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors!

Resources Shared on The Show: