Scotty's Riders

We often hear the phrase that "Time heals all wounds." While I am sure there is some truth to that, it just doesn't seem to be true when we are talking about our nephew and cousin, Scotty Ross. When it is time for bed and Geoffrey and Kaitlyn are ready for a story or to share the events of the day, we often look at family photo albums instead, with the kids paying particular attention to all of the pictures with Scotty and all the great times we had together. It is heartening for Renee' and I to see how much of an impact Scotty had on our children, ensuring that Scotty's life and all of the wonderful things he did with it will never be forgotten.

In another effort to ensure that Scotty is never forgotten and in the belief that Scotty's life had a purpose beyond his nineteen years with us, Scotty's entire extended family has joined together to work with the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation ("PBTF"). This group works to assist patients and their families who are dealing with this terrible disease and hopefully, one day, to find a cure. Most of you are probably not aware that brain cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in children. Although much work has been done, and new treatments are being researched and developed, there is still a lot of work to be done. With the assistance of grants from PBTF, researchers in Utah won the Nobel Prize for Medicine for their pioneering work in the field of brain cancer research.  This is just one of the many ways the PBTF has helped the research and medical community in their continual pursuit of the eventual cure for brain cancer.

At the top of this message you will find a link ("Scotty's Riders) to a website that is dedicated to the memory of Scotty Ross and the people who want to help find a cure for this disease (scottysriders.com). If you have 10 minutes, you can see a video of Scotty receiving the "Principal's Inspiration Award" at his high school graduation, or a slide show that provides a glimpse into the 19 precious years we had with Scotty. You may even find a short video of Scotty singing, "Jesus Loves Me" in the bathtub when he was 2 or 3. What you will definitely find is a lot more information about this incredible human being and his accomplishments in the short time that he had with us, including his achievement of Eagle Scout and his efforts for other people living with disabilities.

The PBTF raises virtually all of its funds through events called "Ride for Kids" which are motorcycle rides held throughout the country. This years' event in Los Angeles will be held on May 15. While we recognize that most of you don't ride motorcycles (although if you do and would like to join us, please visit rideforkids.org), we are hopeful that you will find this cause to be worthy of your attention and consider making a donation.

Donating through this site is safe and secure. Your donations are 100% tax deductible and you will receive a receipt immediately upon payment. If you would prefer to pay by check, please send checks made payable to "Ride for Kids" to Jack Watkinson, 7221 El Manor Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90045.

We know that most of you already have causes that are very important to you, but we hope that you will find this charity worthy of your support and that you will consider making it a part of your annual giving. Our family truly wants to thank you for taking the time to look at this information and for considering the PBTF for your support.

Thank you again for your support, and, "Scotty, we will find a cure."

Jack, Renee', Geoffrey and Kaitlyn