Making a splash, one life at a time.
Make a Splash! Inc will work with the newly injured and their families on the transition to life in a wheelchair. We introduce life with a disability to able-bodied audiences and express the importance of making good choices in daily life.
"I share my story to make others aware of the dangers of shallow water diving — and to inspire others toward a positive perspective on life."
— Mark Cameron, Founder & Patient Advocate
Turning adversity into advocacy
Make a Splash! Inc. is a not-for-profit organization profiling Mark Cameron, a Patient Advocate who provides the newly injured and their families a conversation regarding life in a wheelchair.
In September 2004, Mark sustained a C4–C5 spinal cord injury in a shallow water diving accident. During his hospitalization, he set an ambitious goal: breathing independently before discharge. He achieved it in just 3½ months, surpassing all expectations.
Today, Mark lives independently at home with state-assisted technology and volunteer support, and dedicates his time to helping others navigate the same transition he did.
Patient Advocacy
Mark works directly with newly injured individuals and their families, offering home tours, remodeling ideas, equipment guidance, and living tips for wheelchair users.
Public Speaking
Mark speaks to schools and organizations about accident recovery, the importance of friendship, diving safety awareness, and making positive choices in daily life.
Medical Networking
Mark connects with hospitals, nurses, and caregivers to ensure newly injured patients and families know they're not alone, and to build a support network from day one.
A presentation that changes perspectives
Mark began his speaking journey in middle schools in Olathe, Kansas. He has returned annually to speak with eighth-graders about the transition ahead, and his message reaches students of all ages.
About the Program
Each engagement runs approximately 40 minutes for Mark to share his story, followed by 15 to 20 minutes of open Q&A, leaving ample room for direct interaction with the audience.
Mark challenges students to reflect on what it truly means to be a good person, and reminds them to surround themselves with good people. His message is especially powerful for young audiences facing major transitions.
Schools & Youth Groups
Middle and high school programs on friendship, character, and making good life choices.
Organizations & Community
Corporate and community groups exploring disability awareness and resilience.
Healthcare Settings
Hospitals and rehab centers looking to connect patients with lived experience.
Diving Safety Programs
Seasonal awareness presentations during warmer months, a critical time for prevention.
Patient advocacy in action
Mark is a strong Patient Advocate. As he puts it: "My quadriplegia would be taking me on a path I would not have found as a bi-ped."
He works with newly injured individuals and families, offering home tours, remodeling ideas, equipment demonstrations, exercise guidance, and practical living tips for those new to wheelchair life.
City of Olathe Persons with Disabilities Advisory Board (PDAB): appointed member since 2006, serving as a liaison between the Human Relations Commission and disabled citizens.
Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation Mentor: Central Plains division, connecting newly injured individuals with experienced advocates.
The Ability Experience: organizes stops in Olathe, Kansas, bringing adaptive sports and disability awareness to the community.
Resources for wheelchair users
Mark shares practical knowledge across these areas of daily wheelchair living. Click any topic to request more information.
Health & Exercise
📄 Download PDF
Wheelchair Backpack
📄 Download PDF
Around the House
📄 Download PDF
Work Station
📄 Download PDF
Bottle Opener
📄 Download PDF
Patient Handling
📄 Download PDF
Leaving the House
📄 Download PDF
Organization
📄 Download PDF
Bed Time
📄 Download PDF
Getting out of the Chair
📄 Download PDF
Keeping Warm
📄 Download PDFSupport this mission
Your tax-deductible donation goes directly toward educational programs for the newly injured and their families, and Mark's continued independence.
Get in touch
Whether you're interested in scheduling a presentation, looking for advocacy support, or simply want to send Mark a message, we would love to hear from you.
Book a Presentation
Schools, youth groups, organizations, and healthcare settings welcome.
Patient Support
Newly injured individuals and families can reach out directly for a conversation with Mark.
Feedback and Suggestions
Comments or suggestions for the Advocacy page are always welcome.
Send a Message
Thanks for reaching out — Mark will be in touch soon.