Kids & Family

'A Miracle That I'm Alive'

New Life Academy graduate Mark Mann, who grew up in Woodbury, has a decidedly positive outlook on life despite having both his legs amputated below the knee. His family is helping him raise money for prosthetic limbs.

Mark Mann remembers looking into the lake and seeing the blood pump out of his legs.

The 25-year-old, who grew up in Woodbury, was severely injured in an accident on Balsam Lake in Wisconsin on June 16. A boat driven by his friend ran over his legs when was in the water while jet skiing (authorities said alcohol was not a factor).

After being airlifted to Regions Hospital, his legs had to be amputated below the knee.

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Mann remembers those first few moments after surgery.

“I was just glad I woke up,” he said. “I was so thankful to be alive. The odds were stacked against me.”

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As for not seeing the familiar bumps below his knees under the bed sheet, Mann, who grew up playing several sports, most notably basketball, said: “It was a little hard to swallow.”

Still, he has kept a positive outlook on things.

“It really isn’t a sob story. I’m grateful to be alive and breathing,” Mann said. “I’m a pretty positive person, and I’ve tried to keep that mind-set throughout.”

His family is helping him raise money for prosthetic legs, and fundraiser is planned for Aug. 9 at New Life Academy, where he graduated in 2006. Mann’s parents still live in Woodbury, near Prestwick Golf Club.

Just one prosthetic leg can cost $5,000 to $10,000, Mann said, and the helicopter ride from the lake following the accident cost $24,000. He has insurance, “but they don’t cover all of it.”

Family, friends and faith have helped him maintain an optimistic outlook, Mann said, noting the support of his wife Rachael (they celebrated their first anniversary June 8).

He called himself a “very strong Christian.”

“It’s simply a miracle that I’m alive,” Mann said. “When I look back on that, it’s hard not to be positive.”

He was released from the hospital Sunday, June 30. Doctors, Mann said, were “blown away” by his recovery.

The accident has allowed him to share his story and faith and how people should, despite their circumstances, look on the bright side.

“That little decision can impact how you live your life and how you view yourself,” he said.

To Help

There is a YouCaring page set up for Mann where people can donate. As of July 3, $8,446 had been raised of the $150,000 goal.

There is also a Facebook page where people can find more information.


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