On September 21st, 2018, Mark Lapansie Jr. was struck by a vehicle while riding home from work on his motorcycle. Due to his condition and the severity of his injuries, he was airlifted to Loyola University Hospital where he underwent emergency surgery. It was there he was diagnosed with transection of his spinal cord. This injury has sadly now rendered him paralyzed from the waist down. 



Since a young age, Mark has always had big dreams and is always determined to make them come true. Through hard work and dedication, he maintained a 4.0 grade point average through his grade school at St. Joan of Arc (2002) and High School at Grosse Pointe North (2006). Along the way he has grown to love sports, music, motorcycles, the outdoors, books, science, and anything that offers him a new puzzle to accomplish. His big heart and amazing work ethic finally paid off when he was accepted to the University of Michigan. At U of M, Mark graduated magna cum laude with a major in Materials Science Engineering and a minor in German. While attending the University, he was involved in many activities and became a member of the Delta Upsilon fraternity. He now lives outside of Chicago, working as an engineer. He has been performing as an amateur motorcycle racer and has become very involved in that community.



In light of this tragedy, Mark has a tremendous outpouring of support from his loving parents, family,  countless friends, coworkers, and fellow riders from the motorcycle riding/ racing community. He is staying very positive and determined to overcome the new challenges ahead.



Ultimately, Mark’s road to recovery will be lengthy, challenging, and costly. The purpose of this GoFundMe is to help him cover medical costs, therapy, and rehabilitation.  #504, which is Mark’s racing number, needs our support.  Please forward this fundraiser to as many people as you can so we can meet our goals.