Breaking Down Physical and Societal Barriers for People Living with Disabilities
Anyone’s life can change in a split second from a catastrophic accident, stroke or other tragic event.
Our guest, Mark Raymond Jr., Founder of the Split Second Foundation, had his life change in a split second when he broke his neck after diving into shallow water while boating with friends in 2016.
The accident resulted in him becoming a C-5 quadriplegic. During Mark’s immediate recovery from his injury--inpatient and outpatient therapy--he learned that there are extreme gaps in the recovery process and few resources available to people after being discharged from therapy.
He founded Split Second Foundation in 2018 and dedicated it to making people aware of the growing but oftentimes invisible population of people with disabilities, advocating for their rights, funding cutting-edge research, and providing clear cut steps to immediately impact their lives.
Within three years of starting the foundation, Mark was able to open Split Second Fitness, which is the first inclusive gym in Louisiana with an intentional focus on people living with paralysis, amputation, or other neurological conditions.
Because the majority of people with severe disabilities cannot afford traditional fitness programs, the organization charges a $50 monthly membership fee, providing access to the facility and equipment as well as access to a physical specialist to assist them with weekly training.
