A Note From Justin Ringler

The Ringler family has been among the numerous examples of endless support, inspiration and hope to all who have known them. Justin Ringler, the oldest son, is participating in the 100-mile ultra-marathon in Leadville, Colorado and is dedicating his participation in memory of Brett Zamrzla of Sylvan Grove, Jen and "paying it forward". Please do not feel obligated in any way to contribute monetarily. A moment of silence in memory of Brett, a simple way to "pay it forward" and encouragement for Justin's adventure is what's important.

Dear friends and family,

In January of this year, Brett Zamrzla, formerly of Sylvan Grove, Kansas, and a student at Fort Hays State University, lost his life in a car accident. His family; Jeanette, Erin and Ben, requested in lieu of flowers, food, money, etc., that friends and family honor Brett by “paying it forward”.

They asked for us to consider who might best receive the gift we had to give and to give it in loving memory of Brett.

In March of 2007, Jennifer Whipple Griffin was admitted to a hospital in Dallas, TX, where she spent the next several months fighting for her life. She was eventually diagnosed with Septic Shock Syndrome. During the course of this extensive hospital stay, Jenny had to have her hands and legs amputated. Due to her tenaciousness and positive attitude, Jenny has gone through rehabilitation and now has returned part time to work. She has two artificial legs (named Fred and Ginger) and plans to one day have artificial hands.

On August 16 and 17, of this year, I will be running the 100 mile trail race in Leadville, Colorado. My gift is to run this race, in memory of Brett and to give any monetary support to Jenny’s fund, The P.L.A.Y. Foundation (Positive Living for Active Youth). Her website is getwelljen.blogspot.com. I would like to honor both my friends by “paying it forward” and have set a goal to raise $5,000. We are asking our closest friends and family to help us “pay it forward.”

For those of you who would like to support this endeavor, an account has been opened under “For the Greater Good” at Thunder Bank, 102 N. Main, PO Box 338, Sylvan Grove, KS. 67481. Please specify “Jenny’s Fund” in the memo. To find more information about this trail race, please visit leadvilletrail100.com. You can be kept up to date on the participants, the outcome, etc. with this website. My parents, Glenn and Sharon Ringler, and my wife, Angie, will be participating as my support team during this 30 hour run.

Brett’s life and legacy will be remembered during this special day, and Jenny’s fund will change lives with your monetary support as she too has committed to “paying it forward “ as her new foundation will benefit amputee youth by bringing sport activities into their world. Thank you for joining our team to help “pay it forward.”

Love,
Justin Ringler