Speech Topics include:
The Role of Faith in Recovery
In addition to the hard work of physical therapy, the many medical professionals who bring their caring expertise to the case, and the love and support provided by family, Mark also credits his recovery to the support of family, the power of prayer, the scriptures that encouraged him, and the sustaining power of gospel music. Mark can share his personal journey, and how his faith kept his spirits high during the process of recovery.
From Acceptance to Surrender
Sometimes, when bad things happen, people say that God is “giving them a storm,” throwing difficulties in our way for a reason, perhaps to get our attention. Instead of cursing his ill fortune, Mark saw that it was all part of God’s plan. He realized that he needed to go beyond accepting his situation to surrendering his life to God, every day of his life. He learned that faith is hope in things not seen, and that he could stay the course and inspire others to be like Jesus; to selflessly serve and help others find hope and meaning in the midst of personal tragedies.
How to Support Someone in a Medical Crisis
Whether it’s a friend, family member, co-worker or fellow church member, we’re bound to know someone going through a medical crisis. Many struggle with how to offer support and encouragement to those facing medical challenges – especially when the situation seems dire. With personal insight from his own experience, Mark has advice for care-givers who are looking to support a friend or loved one in the midst of a medical crisis, as well as some of the things we should avoid saying or trying to do.
Mark credits his full recovery in part to his family and medical caregivers at INOVA hospital. His two strokes occurred in succession on Mother’s Day, when he was purchasing a Mother’s Day card for his wife with his son. During recovery, his wife, Brenda, and his children were by his side.
How to Renew Confidence and Find Meaning in a Near-Death Experience
Around the anniversary of his strokes, Mark ran in a 5k race. By listening to his healthcare professionals medical advice, dedicating himself to physical therapy, and finding confidence in himself again he was able to cross the finish line a stronger man.
As a successful businessman and philanthropist, Mark credits much of his learning to surviving two major strokes. With affection and humor, he learned to celebrate the small victories, life’s fragility, how to accept support from family, friends and caregivers, and how to truly live in a meaningful and enriching way. Now Mark is helping others find meaning in their personal tragedies.
The Importance of Giving Back
Mark is grateful that God has given him a second chance at life through his miraculous recovery, and has made it his personal mission to make each day count by giving back to others. Mark offers tremendous insight on the amazing benefits that have come with giving back to others, and can provide ideas on ways we can all get involved in our own way.
Mark and his wife, Brenda, founded The Mark & Brenda Moore and Family Foundation, which has helped grow organizations in education, health care, Christian groups, and culture & the arts. Mark is a founding donor for the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, and has also raised more than $2 million in contributions for INOVA’s Mount Vernon Hospital.
