Jeremy (center) with his dad Greg, brother Jordan, Pastors Doug & Roxanne
This story was brought to my attention a few weeks ago. I emailed Mr. Franks and inquired if I could share his son Jeremy’s story on our blog. It is an incredible testimony of the human spirit, and how one child’s selfless act can make a difference.
“After reading your
email, Jeremy and I visited the web-site and we were both blessed to read about Jacob’s struggles, but more about his overpowering willingness to not only live, but live to the fullest possible and to share his joy with those around him. We were both very moved.
Jeremy is a great kid who five years ago decided to make a difference in other lives through his charity. You can read all about his story and the history of how he came about the idea at his web-site www.nthezone.embarqspace.com. He is scheduled this month to update his letter to all his friends, as we try to do something quarterly.
We both are very proud of Anthony (Jeremy’s friend) as for the last two years, he has paid it forward by donating his birthday gifts to a worthy cause as well. I hope that Gail will share a little about Anthony’s life (he suffered the loss of his mother at a very early age). Gail is doing a wonderful job in keeping her spirit alive and we couldn’t be more proud of the young man Anthony is becoming.
We would be happy to be a part of Jacob’s message and our hope would be that by doing so, we can inspire others to do the same.
Thanks for reaching out and may God continue to bless you!”
Greg Franks
Jeremy was recognized as one of the Top Ten Young People in Collier County for his idea to request monetary donations on his birthday instead of gifts. At his 5th Annual Birthday Bash, Jeremy raised $1,690.00 and donated it to the American Heart Association & St. Matthews House.
We were so inspired by Jeremy & to thank him, we sent him a DWR wristband. He’s proudly wearing it & spreading the message to his friends to “Do What’s Right”.
Tomorrow we will share his friend Anthony’s story.
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
I have been moved by reading the story of Jake and his mission. I have also been moved by the story of Anthony and Jeremy… I have also been intimately aware of these boys great deeds. I am intimately aware of Marie’s passing and the sadness and confusion it brought Anthony. I am still involved with Anthony and Jeremy throughout the year and in each basketball season (about 5 “seasons” a year) as my son Christopher plays with the boys and has been one of the “Three Amigos” since the boys were about 5-6 yrs old. They play on together to this day. I am also very aware of Gail’s generous nature as his Grandmother and NEW Mother. The service and love shown, her dedication to Anthony and his life’s pursuits are as much an example of good guidance and stewardship of children as anything can be. His Grandad toddles onto nearly every basketball game as well. His Coach Greg Franks, Jeremy’s father, and my friend, has been a beacon of guidance and direction and orgainzation, and great love shown – I assist and have since our boys were about 7 yrs old, and they ALL are exmples to me. I am proud to call all my friends – I am proud that Christopher learns and plays with the best people around. Chris joins the boys in their causes and as friends will do, plays hard, competes hard, but laughs harder with his mates. Jake’s Mission is alive and well in the hands and hearts of so many. Not the least are these two boys and the examples of caring, involved adults that surround them!
Brian Nelson