Hello, my name is Shawn Peace. I'm a former player of Coach Ruggles', graduating in 2013. I have stayed in touch with Coach since graduating and he has continued to be a great influence on my life, as I'm sure he has been for many of you reading this.  As those of you who know him well know, he is a selfless man who doesn't ask for much. He has coached and cared about so many students and athletes over the years that it is now our chance to step up and care for him.  I recently learned from Mrs. Ruggles that Coach had been recommended by two of his doctors (primary and orthopedic) to pursue gastric by-pass surgery. He began the process to obtain this surgery, attending many meetings, cardiac testings, nutritional consult, psychiatric evaluation, etc. Then the bad news arrived. The State Health Insurance Coach has does not cover ANY form of bariatric surgery. Costs for this surgery are being quoted to him of $20,000 to $25,000 for the surgery alone. Coach is retiring and certainly does not have this kind of money. His pride has kept him from wanting help, but he deserves to enjoy his retirement with his wife, grandchildren, family and friends. Without this surgery, the doctors have stated his quality of life will be limited and most likely, shortened. Let's help make sure the 33 years Coach Ruggles taught and coached for Stratford High School is followed by a long and happy retirement. I figure that over 33 years of impacting the lives of others at Stratford, that's a lot of lives.  If each of us gave just ten dollars, we'd reach this goal quickly. If you can give more, fantastic! There is no amount too small. Please help make this surgery a reality for Coach Ruggles so he can have the ULTIMATE win.  Coach Ruggles is hoping to have this surgery done in August, 2016 if the funds are met. Let's show him how much he really has meant to all of us and help him reach the $21,000 goal by July 1, 2016.