Mark Bowra’s Story
After a distinguished military career, Mark Bowra’s life changed in an instant. His determination now helps stroke and brain injury survivors.
A moment that changed everything
Mark Bowra MBE was a decorated Royal Marines officer and UK Special Forces commander when he suffered a major stroke that ended his military career. It left him with right-side paralysis and affected his speech, reading, and writing. After a year in hospital and intensive rehabilitation, Mark began rebuilding his life step by step, applying the same focus and resilience that shaped his service.
WHAT’S INSIDE MATTERS
Turning recovery into purpose
During his recovery, Mark began collecting useful items in a small rucksack to help with movement, memory, and coordination. That simple idea grew into the BOWRA Bag, a practical toolkit now shared with stroke survivors and people living with brain injury to support everyday rehabilitation.
INSPIRING RECOVERY THROUGH SHARED ACTIVITIES
Building BOWRA Foundation
In 2019, Mark founded BOWRA Foundation, driven by the belief that recovery is stronger when shared. Working alongside members of the Armed Forces community and supporters, the Foundation helps stroke survivors rebuild independence through inclusive activities, from kayaking and golf to quiz nights and coastal walks.
Challenges for change
Mark and Team BOWRA have completed a range of challenges to raise funds and awareness for BOWRA Foundation, from cycling the length of the UK and climbing the Three Peaks to swimming the English Channel. In 2025, they took on Step by Step, a seven-day, 92-mile trek along the South West Coast Path, uniting stroke survivors, veterans, and supporters.
These challenges continue to grow, giving people the chance to get involved, get active, and show what’s possible.
Watch Mark’s story and be inspired!
Mark shows that barriers can be broken by anyone willing to challenge themselves. Today, he dedicates his time to helping others discover their own Invictus spirit and potential.
What Mark’s story means for you
Mark’s story is proof that recovery doesn’t end in hospital, it continues in life, through connection, shared experiences, and new goals. Whether you’re living with brain injury, a stroke survivor, or supporting someone close to you, BOWRA Foundation offers ways to stay active, meet others, and rediscover purpose.
Every challenge completed and every donation made helps BOWRA Foundation reach more people.
Support BOWRA Foundation and get involved with fundraising →
