Each year, the Rogerson family selects two Granville High School senior student-athletes to receive $2,000 scholarships.
GRANVILLE, Ohio — Four years after losing their son to suicide, a Granville family is honoring his life and legacy through a 5K race to raise funds for a scholarship awarded in his name.
Jamie and Chrisi Rogerson lost their son, Theron, on May 13, 2022. Theron died by suicide at 19 years old.
“As Chrissy and I sat on the floor that night after we found out, just crying, we didn’t want to let Theron’s light end that day,” Jamie said.
The couple created an evening 5K in Theron’s memory.
Jamie said the race is held at night because “Theron hated mornings,” and the finish line is lined with hurdles to reflect his love of track and field.
Proceeds from the event help fund a scholarship awarded in Theron’s name. Each year, the family selects two Granville High School senior student-athletes to receive $2,000 scholarships.
The Rogersons said they look for students who demonstrate the same dedication and commitment they admired in their son.
“We look for someone who really puts a lot of time and dedication into something that they love,” Jamie said.
The family plans to continue awarding the scholarship for at least 19 years.
“Because Theron walked the earth with us for 19 years and 44 days,” Jamie said.
In addition to the race and scholarship, Jamie and Chrisi host “Brave Talks” in the community, encouraging parents to begin conversations about mental health with their children at an early age.
“You can’t expect a 9, 10 or 11-year-old to come to you saying, ‘Hey, I feel lonely,’” Jamie said.
While the family’s work continues, Chrisi said honoring her son’s memory remains her motivation.
“It’s my job now to make Theron proud,” she said.
For more information on the Rogerson family’s mission, and to learn more about the life and legacy of Theron Rogerson, click here.