In this episode of The CARTI Hopecast, host Adam Head welcomes Thomas Cheney—athlete, contractor, father, and survivor—whose life changed forever after a devastating car accident in 2020. Just one day before his brother’s funeral, Thomas fell asleep at the wheel, resulting in a crash that would take one of his legs, shatter the other, and alter the course of his life.

What followed was a journey marked by pain, grit, and relentless determination. With over 30 surgeries in a matter of weeks and a pandemic-era recovery that limited access to physical therapy, Thomas faced seemingly impossible odds. Yet through every challenge, he found purpose—in returning to work, in parenting his children, and in becoming a source of support for other new amputees.

Thomas’s story is a powerful reminder that resilience is built one step at a time, and that even in the darkest circumstances, there’s always a path forward.

Takeaways:

• Thomas Cheney's journey from a vibrant athlete to an amputee demonstrates remarkable resilience and determination.
• The profound impact of losing a limb during a global pandemic serves as a backdrop for Thomas's story.
• Relearning basic movements such as walking after losing a leg underscores the challenges faced by amputees.
• Thomas emphasizes the importance of mental fortitude and support systems in overcoming adversity.
• The transition from being a professional in construction to facing physical limitations illustrates life's unpredictability.
• Helping others who have experienced similar trauma has become a crucial part of Thomas's healing journey.

Founded in 1976, CARTI delivers leading-edge cancer care in a compassionate, patient-centered environment. Our mission is to make trusted cancer care accessible for every patient we serve through compassion, innovation, and purpose.

The CARTI Hopecast shares authentic, meaningful stories that focus on human experiences. Every day, we see patients and families navigating unimaginable hardships, sometimes feeling alone in their journey. Through The Hopecast, listeners hear stories of resilience and transformation, fostering a sense of connection and hope.