Nicole Grehn

Nicole Grehn is a nurse practitioner, mentor, and advocate whose life story reflects resilience, purpose, and service. After surviving a life-threatening medical crisis that led to the loss of both legs above the knee, she dedicated her career to helping others navigate recovery and rebuild their lives.

Qualifications Summary:

Healthcare Professional with a Personal Perspective
- Trauma nurse and now nurse practitioner providing care to patients, including those who use prosthetics
- Previously worked at the same Milwaukee hospital that saved her life
- Brings lived experience to patient care, helping others navigate recovery and the healthcare system
Resilient Journey Following a Life-Threatening Medical Crisis
- Survived a rare genetic heart condition, catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT)
- Endured a nine-day coma during which her heart stopped 78 times
- Underwent bilateral above-knee amputations to prevent severe septic shock and save her life
Education & Medical Training
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology
- Master of Science in Nursing from Marquette University
- Continued advanced training to become a nurse practitioner
Advocate for Rehabilitation & Peer Support
- Attended Hanger Clinic’s Bilateral Above-Knee (BAKA) Bootcamp in 2016, where peer support and training helped her regain independence
- Transitioned from wheelchair use to walking independently with prosthetic devices
Dedicated Mentor & Community Leader
- Mentors children and teens who have limb loss and limb difference through Camp No Limits
- Serves as a mentor through Hanger Clinic programs, helping others learn to walk and regain confidence
Public Speaker & Story of Inspiration
- Featured on NBC Nightly News for her powerful recovery story
- Shares her journey to encourage others facing life-changing medical challenges

Nicole’s work as a healthcare professional and mentor reflects her deep commitment to helping others find strength, purpose, and community after limb loss.