RIP Chad Rogers

On Monday July 22, 2013 Chad left his home (Liberty, MO) around 8:30pm to go for a run. It would be the last time he would see his wife and son for Chad never returned from his run. Family, friends, volunteers and local law enforcement searched for 4 consecutive days for signs of Chad. On Friday July 26 Chads body was found not far from home. Authorities have not released cause of death and I don't want to speculate here. My hope is that God wraps his loving arms around Chads' family, friends and fellow runners during this difficult time.

As a runner, this event frightens me. I pray Chad did not lose his life to foul play. Chad was a dedicated runner and I'm certain he wouldn't want his death to scare runners from enjoying running out on the roads and trails. I didn't know Chad personally but if you are a runner you know all runners feel a sense of community with other runners no matter where you live. In this case, it touches closer to home for I grew up in KC. I have been to Liberty, MO many times for cross country and track meets as well as CC camp at William Jewell College while I was a high school student. I was lucky enough to call many Liberty runners friends. I still live and run in the KC area. I was touched by the overwhelming amount of support the community provided Chads family. While I was not able to participate in the search for Chad I shared the info as much as possible and prayed for his safe return. Now it's time to pray for strength for his family and friends as they mourn and celebrate the life of a husband, father, son, friend, fellow runner taken too soon.

Run with the Angels Chad!