Mark Lewis, Helmsman

27-year-old college graduate from Hingham, Ma

Mark Lewis

My doctor uttered the words "Life is what you make of it" as I lay paralyzed in the chaos of the intensive care unit in Johannesburg, South Africa. What he said resonates with me even more clearly today. I was dealt quadriplegia in October of 2001 from a swimming accident while on Semester at Sea.

I started sailing at the age of 12, taking lessons at the local sailing center and competing in local regattas. I joined the high school sailing team my freshman year and eventually became co-captain my senior year. During those four years I played a role in transforming the sailing team into a varsity sport.

Since my injury I have balanced a mixture of sailing, completing my undergraduate degree, and keeping my body fit. I have made progress in all three areas: I have been training and adapting as a disabled sailor at the Duxbury Bay Maritime School; I graduated cum laude from Northeastern University with a BSBA and I am also pursuing an MBA; and I have participated in physical therapy, combined with a rigorous workout routine, which have resulted in greater strength, better health, and increased function.

Currently, I work as a web developer on projects to benefit the disabled and sailing community. I am currently an active participant with US Sailing's Sailors with Disabilities Council where I serve as web liaison.