DiscoverThis Is Actually HappeningWhat if a horrifying loss led to a grand adventure? [Rebroadcast #179]
What if a horrifying loss led to a grand adventure? [Rebroadcast #179]

What if a horrifying loss led to a grand adventure? [Rebroadcast #179]

Update: 2024-08-275
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This podcast episode features the story of Dustin Reynolds, a man who lost his arm and leg in a motorcycle accident and subsequently embarked on a solo circumnavigation of the globe. The episode begins with an introduction and content warning, advising listeners to consult the show notes for details. Dustin shares his upbringing in Sacramento and Portland, describing his family's financial struggles and his experiences as an outcast in a wealthy neighborhood. He recounts a traumatic incident with a police officer at age 11 and his subsequent decision to leave the neighborhood. After moving to a different part of Portland, Dustin experienced a positive transformation, excelling in sports and academics. He developed a passion for scuba diving, which led him to move to Hawaii. The episode then details the motorcycle accident that resulted in the loss of Dustin's arm and leg. He describes the immediate aftermath, his decision to call 911, and the realization of the long and challenging recovery process ahead. Dustin shares his experience in the hospital, including the surgery to repair his injuries and the decision to amputate his foot. He describes the emotional toll of the situation and the support he received from friends and family. The episode continues with Dustin's journey of facing reality and finding purpose after the accident. He recounts the moment he saw himself in the mirror for the first time after the accident, realizing the extent of his physical changes. He describes the emotional impact of this experience and his subsequent focus on finding purpose in his new reality. Dustin shares his inspiration to sail around the world, driven by a desire to challenge himself and prove that anything is possible despite his disabilities. He describes his initial research, boat purchase, and preparation for the journey. The episode concludes with Dustin's experiences setting sail and facing challenges, including a storm that damaged his boat. He describes the unique experiences he had on remote Pacific islands, including the warm welcome he received from villagers and the unexpected connections he made with other sailors.

Outlines

00:00:00
The Inspiring Journey of a Double Amputee: From Tragedy to Triumph

This episode tells the story of Dustin Reynolds, a double amputee who sailed solo around the world after losing his arm and leg in a motorcycle accident. The episode explores his upbringing, the accident, his recovery, and his decision to embark on this extraordinary journey.

00:02:08
Early Life and Challenges

Dustin shares his upbringing in Sacramento and Portland, describing his family's financial struggles and his experiences as an outcast in a wealthy neighborhood. He recounts a traumatic incident with a police officer at age 11 and his subsequent decision to leave the neighborhood.

00:04:36
Finding Success and a Passion for Scuba Diving

Dustin details his positive transformation after moving to a different part of Portland, excelling in sports and academics. He discusses his passion for scuba diving, which led him to move to Hawaii.

00:07:10
The Motorcycle Accident and Its Aftermath

Dustin recounts the motorcycle accident that resulted in the loss of his arm and leg. He describes the immediate aftermath, his decision to call 911, and the realization of the long and challenging recovery process ahead.

00:13:22
Hospitalization, Surgery, and Amputation

Dustin shares his experience in the hospital, including the surgery to repair his injuries and the decision to amputate his foot. He describes the emotional toll of the situation and the support he received from friends and family.

00:21:37
Facing Reality and Finding Purpose

Dustin recounts the moment he saw himself in the mirror for the first time after the accident, realizing the extent of his physical changes. He describes the emotional impact of this experience and his subsequent focus on finding purpose in his new reality.

Keywords

Solo Circumnavigation


The act of sailing around the globe without any assistance from other people. It is a challenging and demanding feat that requires extensive planning, navigation skills, and physical endurance.

Double Amputee


A person who has lost both arms or legs. This condition presents unique challenges in daily life and requires the use of prosthetic devices and adaptive strategies.

Whale Shark


A large, filter-feeding shark that is known for its gentle nature and distinctive spotted pattern. It is a popular attraction for divers and snorkelers.

GoFundMe


A crowdfunding platform that allows individuals to raise money for personal projects, medical expenses, or other causes. It is a popular tool for people facing financial challenges or seeking support for their endeavors.

Seamanship


The skills and knowledge required to navigate and operate a boat safely and effectively. It encompasses a wide range of topics, including navigation, weather forecasting, boat handling, and emergency procedures.

Pacific Islands


A vast region in the Pacific Ocean that encompasses thousands of islands and atolls. These islands are known for their diverse cultures, stunning natural beauty, and rich history.

Disability Insurance


A type of insurance that provides financial protection to individuals who become disabled and unable to work. It can cover lost wages, medical expenses, and other related costs.

Adaptive Strategies


Techniques and modifications that allow individuals with disabilities to perform tasks and participate in activities that would otherwise be challenging or impossible. These strategies can include assistive devices, modifications to the environment, and changes in approach.

Crowdfunding


A method of raising funds from a large number of people, typically through online platforms. It allows individuals or organizations to access capital from a wide range of supporters, often for projects or causes that traditional funding sources may not support.

Q&A

  • What inspired Dustin to sail around the world after his accident?

    Dustin was inspired by a website listing solo circumnavigators and realized there was no double amputee on the list. He felt a desire to challenge himself and prove that anything is possible despite his disabilities.

  • What were some of the challenges Dustin faced during his solo circumnavigation?

    Dustin faced numerous challenges, including a storm that damaged his boat, the constant need for boat repairs, and the physical limitations of sailing with one hand. He also experienced periods of loneliness and isolation.

  • How did Dustin's experience change his perspective on life?

    Dustin's experience taught him the importance of human connection, vulnerability, and gratitude. He learned to appreciate the support of others and to find purpose in helping others. He also developed a deeper appreciation for the beauty and fragility of life.

  • What are Dustin's plans for the future?

    Dustin plans to complete his solo circumnavigation and then pursue other projects, such as working on research vessels, participating in plastic cleanup efforts, or providing hurricane relief. He hopes to use his experience and notoriety to make a positive impact on the world.

Show Notes

A horrific accident leaves a man severely disabled, but after hitting rock bottom in his recovery a new life opens he could never have imagined

 

Today’s episode featured Dustin Reynolds. Since this interview, Dustin has made it down to Colombia, and is planning on heading to Panama, Galapagos, and Polynesia before returning to Hawaii. To find out more about Dustin, see pictures and follow his journey or donate to help him complete the voyage, go to thesinglehandedsailor.com. You can follow him on Instagram and Facebook @thesinglehandedsailor. You can also support him on Patreon and GoFundMe:

 

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thesinglehandedsailor

GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/hngchb-support-the-single-handed-sailor


Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits


Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast


Content/Trigger Warnings: car crash, severe injury, amputation, explicit language


Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

  

Website for Andrew Waitswww.andrdewwaits.com


Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at https://wondery.com/plus


Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening


Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. 

 

Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com

 

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Cylinder Four/Cylinder Five” - Chris Zabriskie

 

Services

If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources.


National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 

National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264

National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

Crisis Text Line: Within the US, text HOME to 741741


See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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What if a horrifying loss led to a grand adventure? [Rebroadcast #179]

What if a horrifying loss led to a grand adventure? [Rebroadcast #179]