Many know Mark is a most colorful quilting personality who inspires his “cupcake” nation. He sought out untapped creative talent for inclusion in his internationally distributed magazine, Mark Lipinski’s Quilters Home Magazine. He was a successful television producer.  I chose Mark as my hero because I am fortunate to see beneath the public layers. I see his kindness, sense of humor and generosity but also Mark’s humility. Before we met, he led a trailblazing life in his days living in California. He was a social justice warrior who worked tirelessly with at risk youth at the Adolescent Day Treatment Center and halfway houses in San Francisco. He swam with the first LGBT water polo team in the country and made a mark by winning a silver medal in the International Gay Games 2. I admire his journey of adoption overseas. I witnessed his strength in his battle with kidney disease. He had major surgery to remove his kidneys this past winter yet through it all he continued to inspire by sharing ideas, support and thoughts with his legions of followers. A hero is someone who gives selflessly. That’s my friend Mark. Next up: A search for a new kidney donor.

Linda Lum DeBono is an author and designer in the crafting industry. She has written books for Martingale & Co. and Leisure Arts in the area of quilting, sewing, knitting and scrapbooking. Her designs have appeared in American Patchwork & Quilting, Quilters Home, Quilts & More, and Quilter’s Newsletter.  Linda has designed for Henry Glass & Co. and has held positions in the areas of social media and marketing in the textile industry.  She recently co-founded a new design house, Alex & Shirley. It is a fashion brand for kids, inspired by her boys Adam and Alex. www.lindalumdebono.com