Jon Sonkin's Memorial Fund

On the morning of June 14, 2017 Jonathon Sonkin passed away surrounded by his loved ones at Georgetown University Hospital while awaiting a liver transplant. While he did attain emergency Medicaid approval yesterday is it not guaranteed to retroactively cover the time and tests during his stay there. If you are able to make any contribution it would be greatly appreciated by Jonathon's family to help them with cost of his care and with expenses for his memorial.

Jonathon Sonkin. The belt guy. Sonkin. Just Jon. No matter the name you may have called him if you had the pleasure of having met Jon you'd know he was one of a kind. A native of Mississippi, Jon started riding at the age of 7 before moving to Northern Virginia 17 years ago to further his lifelong passion of English Riding. Not only did Jon compete for years as an Area 2 eventer, but he spent his time training a wide array of individuals ranging from children to adults. He was passionate about helping people build confidence with riding. His specialty was he doing so not only for the rider but also building that confidence with their equine partner. While he believed that riding is serious business Jon also knew that doing something you love should also be enjoyable and fun. When Jon wasn’t at the stables you would find him at events, pushing equestrian riders fashion to the next level. He is the reason for the success of the most colorful and popular belts in the equestrian world today and why they are worn by top competing riders across the country. If you were lucky enough to have known Jon you’d know that he was one of the most kind-hearted, genuine individuals in the world. He would always take time at events, for friends old and new, to lend a hand with any task and wouldn’t leave until he knew it was complete. His constant positive attitude was infectious, always giving those around them the energy to be the best they could be. He was always willing to lend an ear should you ever need someone to listen or with a joke to cheer up your day. When Jon wasn’t working (which was a rare thing indeed) he enjoyed spending time outdoors and attending concerts with friends, always trying to bring anyone he could along for the ride. With Jon life was always an adventure that he made sure you would enjoy. You will be hard pressed to find anyone quite like Jon, and he will be missed by all.

Note: This campaign was started by Jonathon's cousins from various states across the country (Mississippi, Virginia, Georgia, etc.).  The money is intended to be used for any medical expenses that are not covered by Medicaid, as well as to pay for his memorials in both Mississippi and Virginia (dates to be determined).  Funds will be managed by Jon's sister, Kim Thruston.  Any funds that remain after the above expenses are paid will go to charity.  Thank you all for your support during this difficult time for our family.