A Tribute to Mark: Carrying on a Legacy of Compassion
A Note from Johnny Miller, CEO of Neural Science Institute:
"Let's go out for Sushi" I can still hear Mark calling out... He loved crab, uni, spicy tuna rolls, sashimi - all of it - he appreciated the whole Japanese experience. It didn't matter what day it was, there was always time for hamachi. Mark was definitely the instiGATOR.
Mark and I have known each other 30+ years, sharing a deep passion for our University of Florida Gators. Our seasonal tradition involved gathering at the local Gator Club to cheer for the team. Every game was an event, and Mark was well-known for his outgoing nature, engaging with everyone around him. This sociability extended to Ocean Beach, where he earned the unofficial title of 'mayor' due to his friendly demeanor and strong connections within the community.
Maybe it was his dad's motivational speeches that inspired Mark to became a stock broker in ATL. I think the honorable Dr. Johnny Savage DDS was also responsible for Mark’s great smile… as well as a deep desire to serve.
Mark was as fun and charismatic as he was kind. He was like a brother to me. He wouldn't just drive hours to pick you up at the airport. He would help you pack, loan you some Hawaiian shirts, give you a list of the best local restaurants, and call someone to pick you up at the other end!
When he was wasn’t surfing or immersed in military documentaries he was supportive of those who needed love and empathy. When he learned about a family who lost their home in a legal dispute, Mark applied his self taught Spanish and advised them how to fix their situation. He didn’t just help solve their problems, he made them feel important. Mark's charisma and selflessness left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.
"Don't leave your remains in the ground, leave your remains in the hearts of others" -Rumi
Carpe Diem > Mark Rex Savage
A few years ago, I started working on a technology called tDCS. It sends imperceptible electrical pulses to recalibrate the brain and stimulate better decision making, which reduces the cravings responsible for substance abuse. Mark was intrigued by this idea because he saw the power in giving people back control of their lives and the power of good decisions.
Mark had experience and knowledge of the recovery programs in San Diego, having lived in Ocean Beach, a hotbed of drug and alcohol addiction. Relapse is the biggest problem for recovery centers and tDCS while not widely adopted, has proven to be an effective, evidence based solution, backed by peer review studies and clinical trials. To both Mark and myself, tDCS was the answer- a truly great way to help recalibrate the brain. It was passive, inexpensive, and only took 10 sessions for results. It was Mark who was adamant that we pursue the addiction space - so off we went.
When we joined forces to start our company, it was clear that Mark was challenged. It was an old paradigm- one he has fought with his entire life. A part of him was driven by the desire to make a meaningful impact in people's lives. This commitment to service intrigued him, as he found purpose in the idea of assisting others and contributing to their well-being. In addition, Mark also recognized that he could personally benefit from the technology we were deploying, adding another layer of complexity to his fight.
Mark has been instrumental in the development of the Neural Science Institute leveraging tDCS to treat people for addiction. On Valentine's Day, we planned his return to San Diego the next week followed by a trip to Tahoe with my two boys for a snowboarding trip over Spring Break. Mark wasn't just our Business Development lead, he was here to serve and was our inspiration. He was headed back to San Diego to support the efforts but sadly he died in his sleep in Ebro on Sunday, February 16th.
Johnny Miller, Kaden Miller and Mark 2008
Our team is committed to carry the torch Mark helped light. Mark will always be remembered here. I can still hear him telling me to work hard and play hard, and help people live their best lives. To honor Mark's memory and continue his mission of supporting those affected by addiction, we are establishing a foundation in his name. This initiative will provide scholarships to individuals struggling with addiction, embodying Mark's spirit of compassion and his desire to make a tangible difference in people's lives
Our goal is to help 1000 people this year, who are stuck in the loop of perpetual addiction. Mark knew what was required to achieve this. We built the company, we have the tech, we need to deliver. Mark’s life was cut short, yet he wanted to help those still in the fight to have the treatments so they can live their lives to the fullest and take back that control. To treat the 1000 people we are raising $3 million.
Immediately after his tragic and way too early death, Alteri Fund, a Colorado-based impact fund, has generously committed $1 million to create this foundation in Mark’s name. This is the spark needed to launch Mark's vision of supporting addiction recovery to thrive and impact lives positively.
Moving forward, the Neural Science Institute remains committed to advancing the use of tDCS in treating addiction and other mental health issues. Mark's inspiration continues to guide our efforts in developing more effective, evidence-based treatments for those in need. By continuing the work Mark was so passionate about, we not only honor his memory but also extend his spirit, touching the lives of countless individuals struggling with addiction and losing control. Mark’s enduring legacy will be one of hope, innovation, and unwavering support for those seeking to overcome life's most difficult challenges.
Mark, we may not see you in the office Monday, but you’ll be with us. I’ll bring the sushi.