Greetings from The Battle Born State,
I apologize up front for the somber tone of this newsletter. I only wish that the good news flooded in as fast as the bad news.
Just last week I found out that Don “9 Ball” Morris passed away. He was one of our most beloved Southern Route Riders, a Road Guard, and our 2006 Southern Route Coordinator. He and is lovely wife Della aka “Pocket” were mainstays for many years on the Run. Les “Easy” Williams wrote a beautiful tribute to Don in his most recent President’s Message.
Yesterday I learned that we lost Clyde “Rock” Luttrell one of Southern Route’s Tennessee State Coordinators. You may not remember his name, but you would surely recognize his face, and we all enjoyed the fruits of his labor. “Rock” was instrumental in organizing the Donuts & Coffee and PB&J stop in Knoxville, TN. Definitely one of the Riders’ most anticipated stops. Please Pray for their Families that they find Peace.
Today I was told that one of our Texas riders, Hal “Grumpy” DuPuy was t-boned by an inattentive cage driver pulling out from a parking lot. I spoke to his wife earlier; he is in stable condition and will be admitted to the hospital. He likely has a fractured bone in his elbow and endured several x-rays and CT Scan. They are awaiting the results. His ride did not fare so well. He can definitely use a whole lotta Healing Prayers.
As I write this, I realize that if my Dad was still alive, we would be celebrating his 100th birthday this month.
It is obvious that there are a great many things that are out of our control. But one thing we can control is how we take care if ourselves. I urge you to see your Primary Care Provider for a check-up before the Run and consider getting a Covid-19 Vaccination. With today’s technology doctors can detect many issued before they become more serious.
On a more positive note, planning and preparations for Southern Route are moving forward. Our State Coordinators are meeting with Supporters every day. #RFTWStrong
Stay Safe, Stay Healthy, Stay Positive.
