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A Voice For Those Who Are Suffering
Our Core
The Quadriplegic Writer
For years I’ve had this line in my head, “a voice for those who are suffering.” Now, admittedly, this line does relate directly to my personal experience, however, to go deeper, what this made me realise is that writing is a voice in and of itself. And for those who in peculiar spots, it’s very much a second voice.
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Yes, there’s something special about writing, it’s this textual voice that has a life all of its own. It can be funny or informative, direct or obscure, but what I find especially cool is that words have this rather strange in-built longevity. And nah, this isn’t about re-reading a social media post a few days later, this is like publish a book and your great granddaughter might read it.
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Writing has a unique and diverse spectrum of benefits.
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For example, one way I use writing is as a healing tool, another is to document my journey, then another to let people know how I’m feeling. A creative outlet, a tool to communicate; no wonder I often find myself saying that writing is life.
What does amaze me about the writer’s voice though, I believe that many people are underutilising this simple gift. People are focused on consumption, maybe on crafting fleeting fast-fashion type content, not a hearty meal. Honestly, this is what a functional writing practice can create – additional substance and fulfilment. That second voice.
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We want you to find and harness your unique writer’s voice. Be direct, obscure. We all have something important to say. Tell your story with pride and passion; words have power.
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Meet Mark
Inspiring, Determined, Dreamer
Hey, I'm Mark... writer, author, blogger and bullshit artist (hah). It's a bit weird actually, my arms and hands don't work yet I'm a writer; I type by using a sensor on my head.
Day-dreamer, larrikin and stubborn prick, I'm a private school nerd, I've studied life coaching, but my primary areas of study have centered around marketing and advertising, plus business strategy.
I always wanted to be an advertising copywriter. So, my forte is marketing and writing (which are also my two university majors), then I published a book not so long ago... and have a few more on the go. In these I write about the complexities of disability and overcoming adversity.
I don't let my disability stop me doing things, or achieving things.
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Writing as a healing tool
Twelve years ago I started my first blog - it changed my life. It gave me a voice. Before this, I had no idea of how powerful words could be, in fact, writing was just something that my mother did. Anyhow, after lightning and quadriplegia struck, it was through telling stories about my life and predicament on this blog that many people got to know me. It was how I entertained, expressed thoughts, only what I didn't realise until later was, I became a voice for those who are suffering.
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My vulnerability gave others permission to be the same, to embrace their flaws. As I've now been told, my stories helped give strength, ideas and the conviction for others to follow their own dreams, hence "my essence captured on the page" gave others the confidence to overcome what was holding them back. My ramblings served as a reminder as to what is truly possible - not just for me, but all of us..
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Our Projects
Within the Adversity Answered universe there are numerous working parts; and the plan is that these wll compliment your adversity journey. We provide podcast conversations offering-up a myriad of perspectives and ideas, writing tools to aid with self-discovery and self-expression (relating to what you're going through); plus, to offer more perspectives, we give direct responses to some of life's most puzzling questions
Quadcast
A podcast that discusses adversity, optimum health and diet; plus nursing, disability and a variety of topics within the healthcare space. You'll meet special guests, unpack some taboos, even find out what it's like for caregivers and "care-takers." If someone's health is dictating their life, this is in Quadcast's wheelhouse.
Quadriplegic Writer
The primary focus of Quadriplegic Writer is to promote using writing as a healing tool. Discover tips, tools and techniques, be inspired creatively, but most importantly you'll learn exactly how to embrace writing as an outlet. There are even a number of online courses to help you... find your voice, find freedom through writing.
Halfway Decent Advice
After a twenty year period of struggling with extreme disability, after losing everything and fighting to reaffirm his life, Mark has a very unique take on the world. So, the hope is here that he can apply this unique perspective to whatever queries you have about your life. Ask anything. The more bizarre the better.
Online Course
Our courses, we like to see them as leaning posts and support systems to help people get through, even as tools to help them "win." To educate and to serve as reminders that there is always a bigger picture and purpose. ​The journey is the prize. Peace of mind can be earned. Your experiences are everything
THE QUADRIPLEGIC WRITER IN YOUR INBOX
NOTABLE COLLABS
What People Are Saying
"Mark is so open and honest about his journey as a quadriplegic, which I for one have learned so much just by reading Mark's writings. Whether they be on a good day or bad. I feel so much more "educated" about the type of disability Mark has and that's because he's upfront and honest about how it is."
Lyn
"I have never been so affected by someone I have never met... ever. You reach out to people even through a screen. It says so much that a person can touch your life forever, without ever having to meet. The way you tackle adversity and still end up doing more with your life than most ever will is truly mind blowing to me."
Lorraine
"Mark is proof that we are more than our bodies and circumstances. His spirit and determination have transformed physical and life challenges that would defeat anyone, into success and inspiration for all of us. I am grateful to witness and benefit from his courageous sharing of his thoughts."
Sarah