When not working for the State of Ohio I do public speaking to young people about Decisions and Consequences. In 1984, I drank two beers and smoked some pot got on a motorcycle, no helmet and was going 25 mph around a corner and hit the curb that’s how I ended up in a wheelchair (C6 quad).
I talk on the dangers of drinking and driving and how I thought, "It would never happen to me". The wheelchair really gets their attention. I have a promotional DVD I send out to promote my speaking engagements. I've had the good fortune to be able to use my disability to help others understand that people with disabilities are people first and our disabilities are second. I have been in a three nationally distributed training videos for people with a disabilities, doing my public speaking for twenty years to TABs (Temporarily Abled Body) and have even done some modeling.
What helps me cope with my situation is my faith in Jesus. I've been a Christian since I was a young teen but I put Jesus on the shelf quite a few times. He was always there it was I who strayed. I've been more serious about my walk since the early 90's, however, I have gone through some deserts, but he has always brought me through them.
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WHAT PEOPLE THOUGHT ABOUT DECISIONS AND CONSEQUENCES:
"Outstanding presentation! Very informative and allows students to see the obstacles that people with disabilities face daily."
-Roger Mace, Principal, Bloom Carroll High School
“Mac establishes a connection with students through his open and honest approach, leaving a solid message positive impact on his audience.â€
-Steve Wigton, Assistant Principal, Lancaster High School
“This message hits right to the heart of respecting life, minute by minute and reminds youth that the choices they make will indeed affect the rest of their lives.â€
-Bea Dorman, School-to-work coordinator, Logan Elm High School
“Mac shares his poignant life story that serves as a warning to all that no one fully controls their own destiny, and gives a message that with stamina and perseverance you can prevail and create a full and satisfying life.â€
-Barbara Riley, Director, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services
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