Girls with Grafts

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 Read about ways survivors honor their burniversaries: https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/ways-to-celebrate-or-honor-your-trauma-anniversary What is the burniversary effect? https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/the-burnaversary-effect https://www.groppernejat.com/ Learn more about virtual support from Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors: https://www.phoenix-society.org/what-we-do/virtual-support Read Amber’s virtual open mic: https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/virtual-open-mic-amber-wilcox Share your burn story: https://www.phoenix-society.org/open-mic-submission Learn about providing peer support: https://www.phoenix-society.org/what-we-do/peer-support 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!

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. Links Listen to The Importance of Good Sleep with Dr. Sheera Lerman Zohar on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-importance-of-good-sleep-with-dr-sheera-lerman-zohar/id1646466634?i=1000623088494 Listen to Beyond Survival: A Journey of Self-Love & Resilience With Michelle Escamilla Valladares on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-survival-a-journey-of-self-love/id1646466634?i=1000645179665 Visit the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN)’s website: https://bcen.org/ Learn more about the Certified Burn Nurse (CBRN) exam: https://bcen.org/cbrn/ View the list of the American Burn Association’s verified burn centers: https://members.ameriburn.org/verified-burn-centers?_gl=1*k9s99h*_ga*MTEzNDI3NDQxLjE2OTc2NTMyMjM.*_ga_FPEW9Z01GV*MTcxMjI2NDM1My43Mi4xLjE3MTIyNjQ1NjkuMC4wLjA.*_gcl_au*MTAxMDE3OTY5LjE3MDU1MTAxNDg.&_ga=2.211312981.130195158.1712264353-113427441.1697653223 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.

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. Links Follow Phoenix Society on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhoenixSocietyforBurnSurvivors Learn more about Phoenix SOAR: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/phoenix-soar Contact Phoenix Society’s team: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/contact-us Join our Facebook group for survivors and caregivers (English): https://www.facebook.com/groups/phoenixsocietypeersupport Join our Facebook group for survivors and caregivers (Spanish): https://www.facebook.com/groups/phoenixsocietyspanish Learn how to watch our Youtube videos in your preferred language: https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/13339776?hl=en Learn more about Angel Flight: https://www.angelflight.com/ 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. Sponsor Girls with Grafts Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

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. Links Learn more about the Healing Phoenix Arts Program: https://www.healingphoenixlapidary.com Learn more about the Warrior Scar Workshop: https://www.healingphoenixlapidary.com/about-warrior-scar-jewelry Read Holly’s testimonial of Phoenix World Burn Congress 2023: https://www.phoenix-society.org/news/warrior-scar-jewelry-program-2023 Learn more about Phoenix SOAR (Survivors Offering Assistance in Recovery): https://resources.phoenix-society.org/phoenix-soar 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 more at: LegalJourney.guide Sponsor Girls with Grafts Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

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. Links Join our Facebook Group for Spanish-speaking survivors and caregivers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/phoenixsocietyspanish Download Sara’s STEPS in Spanish: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/saras-steps-e-book-spanish Sign up for Phoenix Society’s Virtual Support Group: https://www.phoenix-society.org/what-we-do/virtual-support-group Join our weekly Peer Support Chat: https://www.phoenix-society.org/what-we-do/peer-support-chat Contact Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/contact-us Visit our Burn Community Calendar: https://www.phoenix-society.org/community-calendar 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.

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. Links Laser Treatment for Burn Scars: What Burn Survivors Want to Know https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/laser-treatment-for-burn-scars-what-burn-survivors-want-to-know Will My Burn Skin Graft Go Away Over Time? https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/will-my-burn-skin-graft-go-away-over-time Learn more about Spray-On Skin https://www.templehealth.org/about/blog/spray-skin-technology-heal-severe-burns Learn more about the different type of skin grafts https://www.healthpartners.com/care/hospitals/regions/specialties/burn-center/skin-grafting/ 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. Sponsor Girls with Grafts Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

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. 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. 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. Links Get Your Copy of God Never Moved https://www.amazon.com/God-Never-Moved-Couples-Journey/dp/B0CFZ9P673 Information about Alcoholics Anonymous https://www.aa.org/ Burn Survivors of New England https://www.bsone.org/ Boston-Harvard Burn Model Systems https://spauldingrehab.org/research/programs-labs/burn-injury Volunteer for Phoenix SOAR with Phoenix Society https://www.phoenix-society.org/phoenix-soar-peer-supporters Research Opportunities with Phoenix Society https://www.phoenix-society.org/advocacy/research-opportunities Become a Phoenix Advocate https://www.phoenix-society.org/become-an-advocate 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.

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. Links Learn more about the Mamingwey Burn Survivor Society https://mamingwey.ca/ Get connected with the Canadian Burn Survivors Community https://www.canadianburnsurvivors.ca/ Sign up for the Go For the Burn Run 2024 https://www.events.runningroom.com/site/18166/go-for-the-burn-run-2024/?contentId=48394&vrindex=0 Explore the Canadian Burn Survivors Community’s Calendar of Events https://www.canadianburnsurvivors.ca/event-calendar Join Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors’ weekly Peer Support Chat https://www.phoenix-society.org/what-we-do/peer-support-chat Watch Girls with Grafts on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNcdzcciEFM_LNQMFQhQ3hA 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. Sponsor Girls with Grafts Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

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. Links Read: Reflecting on My Experience at Phoenix World Burn Congress 2023 https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/reflecting-on-my-experience-at-phoenix-world-burn-congress-2023 Watch: The Healing Power of Comedy https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace/healing-power-of-comedy Watch: The Healing Power of Laughter https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace/the-healing-power-of-laughter Read: Joshua Gropper: Attorney, Advocate, Ally https://phoenix-society.org/resources/joshua-gropper-attorney-advocate-ally Listen: Celebrating NFPA®'s Fire Prevention Week™ with Telgian's Pamela Reno https://redcircle.com/shows/3281f09f-40a0-43d9-ad81-1acce29f8de4/episodes/2f5cd9f6-9780-4089-9d88-41faf67edd6d 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.

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. Links Become a Phoenix SOAR Peer Supporter today: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/phoenix-soar Join our Facebook group, connect with other survivors and caregivers, and attend our weekly support chat: https://www.facebook.com/groups/phoenixsocietypeersupport Read Burns are Beautiful—Five Survivors on Scars and Self-Love: https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/burns-are-beautiful-five-survivors-on-scars-and-self-love Read Ask the Experts—Finding Love: https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/ask-the-experts-finding-love Read Positive Self-Love: https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/positive-self-talk Listen to the Make Believes Podcast (also on Spotify & Apple Podcasts) : https://rss.com/podcasts/makebelievesandcelluloids/ Listen to More Than A Survivor (also available on YouTube & Spotify): https://rss.com/podcasts/more-than-a-survivor/ Follow Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mescavalla/ 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.

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

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. Links Follow Paige Lauren Billiot on Instagram (Flawless Affect) https://www.instagram.com/flawless_affect Learn more about Visible Difference & Disfigurement in the Arts https://resources.phoenix-society.org/visible-difference-disfigurement-in-the-arts Read “What is Face Equality” https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/what-is-face-equality Access Our “Getting Back Out There, Tools for Social Empowerment” Course https://resources.phoenix-society.org/getting-back-out-there-tools-for-social-empowerment Follow Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/PhoenixSocietyforBurnSurvivors Learn more about Face Equality Week https://faceequalityinternational.org/about-fei/international-face-equality-week/ Follow Face Equality International on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/faceequalityint 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. Sponsor Girls with Grafts Interested in becoming a sponsor of the show? Email us at info@phoenix-society.org.

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 Learn more about the Station Nightclub Fire: https://www.thestationfirememorialfoundation.org/ Watch ‘Burns as a Chronic Condition’ featuring Dr. Schneider: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace/burns-as-a-chronic-condition https://spauldingrehab.org/ Checkout Research Opportunities for Burn Survivors: https://phoenix-society.org/advocacy/research-opportunities Information about the Libre Survey: https://phoenix-society.org/resources/libre-survey-offers-insight-into-social-recovery Understand more about the Burn Model Systems: https://msktc.org/about-model-systems/burn Read more about the Harvey Stuart Allen Distinguished Service Award: https://ameriburn.org/who-we-are/awards/#:~:text=The%20Harvey%20Stuart%20Allen%20Distinguished,Artz. Listen to Gina Russo, Station Nightclub Survivor on Girls with Grafts: https://redcircle.com/shows/3281f09f-40a0-43d9-ad81-1acce29f8de4/ep/c6933a0e-f1eb-4dea-bafb-6997ba13a615 Get articles to learn more about physical healing after an injury: https://phoenix-society.org/resources?query=&page=1&hierarchicalMenu%5Bfields.topics.lvl0%5D=Physical%20Healing For more resources, visit: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace 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!

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 Visit Matt Manzari’s website: https://www.beyondtheburn.life Purchase Matt’s book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Scars-Life-Defined-Circumstances/dp/1951492285 Learn more about Operation Wake Surf: https://operationwake.surf/ Follow Matt on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/10156455730860772 Follow Matt on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattmanzari/ Watch Matt on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWck38FEIziAbadLjBWAdAA Visit the Burn Community Bookshelf: https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/burn-community-bookshelf Learn more about Phoenix Society’s World Burn Congress: https://www.phoenix-society.org/phoenix-wbc/ Watch ‘Finding Purpose After a Burn Injury’: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace/finding-purpose-after-a-burn-injury Read the article ‘Pain Management After a Burn Injury’: https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/what-to-know-about-pain-management-after-a-burn-injury Watch ‘Telling Your Story to Make a Difference’: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace/video-telling-your-story Download Your Free Copy of ‘A Caregiver’s Guide to a Burn Injury’: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/a-caregivers-guide-to-a-burn-injury Share your burn survivor story online: https://www.phoenix-society.org/open-mic-submission Join the Online Burn Survivor Communities for Peer Support: https://www.phoenix-society.org/what-we-do/virtual-support Get Your Own Copy of Phoenix Society’s Journey Magazine: https://www.phoenix-society.org/journey-magazine For more resources, visit: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace 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!

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: https://www.willowandbirch.com 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: https://www.instagram.com/lovewillowandbirch/ Follow Willow & Birch on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovewillowandbirch Read the article ‘What Does it Mean When Someone Stares at Your Scars?’: https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/what-does-it-mean-when-someone-stares-at-your-burn-scars Read more about laser treatment for burns: https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/laser-treatment-for-burn-scars-what-burn-survivors-want-to-know Watch ‘Makeup Application Tips for Burn Survivors’: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace/toolkit-makeup-application-for-burn-survivors Watch ‘Skin Care After a Burn Injury’: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace/skin-care-burn-injury Read the article ‘Burns are Beautiful’: https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/burns-are-beautiful-five-survivors-on-scars-and-self-love Read the article ‘I Don’t See Your Scars’: https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/i-dont-see-your-scars Get Your Own Copy of Phoenix Society’s Journey Magazine: https://www.phoenix-society.org/journey-magazine For more resources, visit: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace 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!

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 Sharing Your Story as a Burn Survivor: https://phoenix-society.org/open-mic-submission Resources about Burn Survivors and Returning to School: https://phoenix-society.org/resources?query=school&page=1 Getting Back Out there After a Burn Injury: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace/getting-back-out-there-course Taylor’s Open Mic Submission: https://phoenix-society.org/resources/virtual-open-mic-taylor-campbell About the Taylor Campbell Pledge Fund: https://www.leatheritaliausa.com/taylor-campbell-pledge-fund Learn more about Taylor: https://www.linktr.ee/taylor_campbell 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 at: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace/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!

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 Join Phoenix Society in Advocacy Efforts: https://phoenix-society.org/advocacy What to Know About Home Fire Sprinklers: https://phoenix-society.org/resources/home-fire-sprinkler-separating-fact-from-fiction How to Read a Fire Extinquisher Tag: https://phoenix-society.org/resources/reading-a-fire-extinguisher-tag Read About Fire Safety Assumptions: https://phoenix-society.org/resources/fact-checking-fire-safety-assumptions Read About Embarking on a Journey of Healing Through Fire Advocacy: https://phoenix-society.org/resources/journey-of-healing-through-fire-advocacy Read About Understanding and Preventing Flash Fires: https://phoenix-society.org/resources/journey-of-healing-through-fire-advocacy Tips for Preventing Burns and Scalds in the Kitchen: https://phoenix-society.org/resources/5-tips-for-preventing-burns-and-scalds-in-the-kitchen For more resources, visit: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace Learn More About Telgian at https://www.telgian.com Learn More About NFPA’s Fire Prevention Week: https://www.nfpa.org/fpw 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!

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 Visit Anthony’s Website: www.Anthonyrazzano.com Purchase Anthony’s Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.ca/Against-All-Odds-Strength-Gratitude/dp/1394199716 Read more about helping child burn survivors reclaim life: https://phoenix-society.org/resources/helping-traumatized-children-reclaim-life Download the guide for parents and caregivers of burn survivors: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/guide-tips-for-parents-caregivers Watch ‘Building a Mindset that Serves You’: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace/video-building-a-mindset-that-serves-you Download the guide ‘Beyond Surviving’: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/beyond-surviving-whitepaper Visit the Burn Community Bookshelf: https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/burn-community-bookshelf Join the Online Burn Survivor Communities for Peer Support: https://www.phoenix-society.org/what-we-do/virtual-support Share your burn survivor story online: https://www.phoenix-society.org/open-mic-submission Become a Phoenix Society SOAR Peer Supporter: https://www.phoenix-society.org/what-we-do/peer-support Get Your Own Copy of Phoenix Society’s Journey Magazine: https://www.phoenix-society.org/journey-magazine Learn more about ways to give back to Phoenix Society: https://www.phoenix-society.org/journey-magazine?modal=give-back For more resources, visit: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace 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!

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 Learn more about Grace Athena Flott: https://www.graceathenaflott.com/ Finding an Audience for Your Story (Featuring Grace Athena Flott): https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace/video-finding-an-audience-for-your-story The Art of Healing: Creativity and Community in Pediatric Healthcare: https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/the-art-of-healing-creativity-and-community-in-pediatric-healthcare Painting Through Darkness: https://www.phoenix-society.org/resources/alexi-pyles-painting-through-the-darkness Read ‘Your Brain on Art’: https://www.amazon.com/Your-Brain-Art-Arts-Transform/dp/0593449231/ref=sr_1_1 For more resources, visit: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace 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!

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 Resources for physical healing after a burn injury: https://phoenix-society.org/resources?hierarchicalMenu%5Bfields.topics.lvl0%5D=Physical%20Healing&page=1 Watch Phoenix Society and Orlando Health ‘Ask the Experts’ Itching & Scar Management Video: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace/video-ask-the-experts-itching-scar-management Chair Yoga Exercises for Burn Survivors: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/hubfs/Chair%20Yoga%20Handout.pdf Learn more about Phoenix Society for Burn Survivor’s SOAR Program: https://phoenix-society.org/phoenix-soar Access Our FREE Online Burn Survivor Toolkit: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/burn-survivor-toolkit?utm_referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fphoenix-society.org%2F About Limbitless: https://limbitless-solutions.org/ About Orlando Health Warden Burn Center: https://www.orlandohealth.com/facilities/orlando-regional-medical-center/patient-care/burn-care For more resources, visit: https://resources.phoenix-society.org/resource-marketplace 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!