From: RUTHKES@aol.com

Sent: Sunday, August 06, 2000 8:59 AM

To: Openletter@mail.suite500.net

Subject: Scott at Rocky Raccoon

I was in a state of shock when I received Rick's message about Scott's

passing. Even more so when I heard the circumstances. My first thought was

that he was flying, and although this would be horrible, it doesn't begin to

be near the tragedy that was the reality of his death. I wish I could convey

some words to his family that would ease the pain. I only hope that all the

messages and people who Scott touched in his life help to relieve some of

your grief. It is such a senseless tragedy that I can't begin to understand

it myself.

I met Scott for the first and last time in Texas at the Rocky Raccoon 100

mile race. I had asked Rick Lewis if he might know someone who could pace me

and he provided me with Scott's name and e-mail address. We corresponded

and got to know a little about each other. I went back and looked at his

message and could feel his enthusiasm. It wasn't always a fun time. I can

assure you of that. I'm not so pretty 60 miles into a run. It being my

first hundred mile race I was very worried about being out there without a

pacer. Scott never stopped talking to me, the whole 40+ miles. We discussed

just about everything. I came to realize that he was a really adventurous

guy with high hopes for a bright future. What a positive individual!!! I

don't know if I could have done it without him. I was glad I didn't have to

try.

As a mother, I can't begin to say a word about the loss of a son. I think

that the only positive thought is at least have had someone so dear for any

length of time. But it's got to be like losing a part of yourself. Just

think about all the warm feelings that have been conveyed and you'll know

that you raised a fine young man.

With greatest sympathy,

Ruth Kessler

Burlington, MA

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