CAPTAIN INFORMATION
MARK HOLLEMANS, 23
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Mark is 23 years old and is the oldest of five children. He lives in the Forest Hills area and attends Lincoln School. He has cerebral palsy and is severely multiply impaired. He also has lung disease, a seizure disorder, obstructive sleep apnea, scoliosis, dysphagia, and is fed with a feeding tube. Mark uses a wheelchair to get around and can walk short distances with his walker. He is non-verbal, but still communicates with smiles and gestures.
Despite all of these challenges, Mark leads a very busy life. He rides horses in a therapeutic riding program and downhill skis in a sit sled. He loves to go for long walks in his jogger stroller and on bicycle rides with his siblings on his tandem bike. He loves being outside and on the move! A lot of his time is spent cheering for his siblings at their lacrosse, basketball, hockey and volleyball games. Mark loves music and movies, spending time with family and going anywhere in the van.
Special Note: Mark’s energy is amazing. When I first met him, he certainly did not sit still. He was able to transfer from the floor to his chair to the floor to the couch, and appeared almost amused by our meeting. When you speak, he looks right into your eyes, like he’s staring into your soul… such sweet innocence. And he gives great bear hugs!
Our passion for what we do helps us connect with individuals like Mark on so many levels. It is our honor to take him through this race as he allows us a short glimpse into his life. Our hope is that we remain open to the lessons people like Mark can teach us as we journey through life.
May your lives be touched too!
-- Terence Reuben