[Judy here this time:]

Ignite U1 lost a great friend last week. Alex Fleming was the first person outside of Katie, myself, and a partner organization in Florida who was ever told about Ignite U1, long before we even had a name for it. Katie's "ride or die" for more than 20 years of her life, and oh, how he loved his best friend. When I spoke with Alex the very first time, you could instantly feel how proud he was of Katie.

Alex was instantly sold out to our vision simply because it's Katie's with us. Before I could even tell our partner organization in Orlando that Alex would be "helping us locally" - he had already Googled them, called to introduce himself to the Founders, and confirmed a dinner appointment to discuss event ideas. An aspiring sports broadcaster (and moving up the chain FAST), he also immediately included an awesome shout-out in his radio show and began laying the groundwork with professional sports franchises to be involved with Ignite U1. The man was eager!! He sprinted for Ignite U1 because he was that proud of his friend, Katie Phipps (as are we...as you know).

We grieve Alex's sudden passing with Katie and with all who loved him.

At the appropriate time, we will determine ways that Ignite also can honor Alex's legacy long-term. For now - it is rare that Ignite would share a personal Go Fund Me. But this is a rare and incredibly special man to us. If you are in a position to give above and beyond your support to Ignite, please consider helping Alex's loved ones in Amarillo get him home from Florida to be properly honored by final arrangements. DONATE HERE.