DURYEA, PA – Mark E. Smith, M.A., general manager, Public Relations and Consumer Research, for Quantum Rehab/Pride Mobility Products, has died. He was 47 years old. In addition to his distinguished 17-year career with Quantum Rehab/Pride Mobility, Smith was a nationally recognized advocate for people with disabilities. The following bio is from Powerchair Diaries, essays by Mark E. Smith.

When Mark E. Smith [pictured right with his wife, Holly] was born with severe cerebral palsy, the doctors said that he was an absolute vegetable, void of cognitive skills. On top of that, Mark’s family was fragmented by alcoholism, divorce, incarceration, and suicide. But, Mark defied all odds, turning the insurmountable into accomplishing the impossible – transforming his life from the trials of a severely disabled child with little to the triumphs of an adult fulfilling dreams.

Today, Mark is among the most recognized disability figures in the world. His accomplishments are unmistakable as an icon within the wheelchair industry and serving as a General Manager for Pride Mobility Products Corporation and Quantum Rehab. Mark is the author of five books and countless magazine articles and columns, is a lecturer and sought-after inspirational speaker, and sits on numerous community-related boards. Of course, Mark’s most important role is that of a husband and father of his two daughters, living in Northeastern Pennsylvania. See, when Mark speaks of shifting one’s life from merely surviving to truly thriving, he doesn’t just talk about it – he’s lived it.

“The industry has lost a true legend in Mark E. Smith,” said Kevin Gaffney, group show director, Medtrade. “We are saddened by this news. Medtrade Monday will reflect more on Mark’s life in the upcoming Dec 3 issue. Our sincere condolences go out to Mark’s family, friends, and co-workers.”