I See The LIGHT

I am one of many individuals who prays for Randy and Marla Owens. They have been living in and walking through a very dark tunnel these past two years and some months. When their son, Ryan, collapsed on his way from the Henderson County High School football practice field and then died in the locker room, Randy and Marla's nearly idyllic life was plunged into a very dark and painful place. I am so pleased to finally say, there does appear to be a light at the end of this tunnel for them.

Since the recent death of Max Gilpin, a Pleasure Ridge Park football player, who also died following football practice, and the subsequent charges being filed against his coach, there is finally a bill in the Kentucky legislature to promote awareness, education and accountability on the practice fields in Kentucky sports. I urge educators and parents to pay close attention to this action in Frankfort. It is totally unneccessary for another child to lose his or her life playing in an extracurricular activity at school.

Marla and Randy, through discussions with Joni Jenkins and Derrick Graham, are finally going to be able to positively influence the direction of guidelines that protect Kentucky's children during school activities. I applaud these Kentucky Representatives for finally taking action and spearheading this needed initiative.

I will continue to pray for God to work through all of these individuals, and hopefully, Kentucky will be able to lead the nation in making sports safer for young athletes. Indeed, the Light of the world is there at the end of our dark tunnels. I also pray that you see Him as well. luv, Susan