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For Mark and Ellen, life has always been about staying active. Their journey from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, to Chicago’s south suburbs reflects a passion for physical activity and a commitment to family.
Mark's introduction to rowing began in high school in Marietta, Ohio. His involvement with the sport at the only high school in Ohio with a rowing program became a defining aspect of his life. Ellen shares that rowing "changed his life" by providing discipline and a sense of belonging.
Continuing his rowing career at Yale University on the Housatonic River further shaped Mark's resilience. Ellen explains that "rowing is one of the most complete workouts," building strength and endurance—qualities that have helped Mark manage challenges related to a progressive neurological disease.
After meeting in Harrisburg, Mark and Ellen married and eventually moved to Chicago for graduate studies. Later, they settled in Pittsburgh, where they raised their children. As empty nesters, they returned to rowing together. Ellen recalls joining after encouragement from Mark's coach.
Their love for rowing was complemented by an active lifestyle in Pittsburgh’s hilly terrain. After an initial misdiagnosis of Parkinson’s, they searched for a suitable home closer to family and found one in the Chicago suburbs during challenging conditions—a pandemic and heavy snowstorm.
In Illinois, they continued seeking outdoor activities as Mark's mobility declined. Victorian Village became their choice for care after exploring various options. They appreciated its welcoming environment: “From the moment we walked in, it didn’t feel like an institution—it felt like home,” says Ellen.
Family visits are frequent and cherished at Victorian Village. The couple’s youngest grandchild has become well-known there, bringing joy to residents with his energy.
Mark remains connected to rowing through therapy sessions using commands like “Power Ten.” Ellen reflects on how rowing taught Mark valuable lessons: “Rowing taught Mark discipline and endurance, but it also gave him peace.”
Though no longer actively rowing, their love for movement endures alongside their commitment to each other.
