Rachel, a 7-year-old from Fredericksburg, Va., enjoys swimming and playing with American Girl dolls; however, Rachel’s true love is horses. Not surprisingly, when Rachel’s wish granters approached her about a wish experience, Rachel said she wanted her very own horse.
Of course, keeping a horse in the backyard or the guestroom is not a very manageable task, especially for a 7-year-old. But the Make-A-Wish Foundation®
of Richmond and Western Virginia found a way for Rachel to enjoy all the fun of owning a horse without having to maintain the animal every day.
Luckily, a stable not far from Rachel’s home provided a year of free riding lessons. Rachel was surely the most stylish young rider at the stable after also receiving a riding habit, new boots and a beautiful new saddle. In addition, Rachel had unlimited access to the stable so she could ride whenever she wanted.
Best of all, Rachel’s fondest wish — for her own horse — came true. One of the stable horses was specially designated "Rachel’s Horse" during her entire year of free lessons, meaning Rachel was the only person to ride that horse. With her very own horse, new riding gear and free lessons, Rachel may be well on her way to the Kentucky Derby.
Inspired Thoughts
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I think what you did for this little girl and thousands of other children is amazing. Sometimes a child with a disability could lose all hope and a kind gesture like this could restore their hope. Thank you for doing what thousands of other people dream of doing, making wishes come true!
- Laura
08/30/2006
10:47
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I think it is wonderful you were able to give a horse to the young girl. I'm 12 years old and all my life I've wanted a horse, but I would gladly give it up to her.
- Christine
08/30/2006
10:46
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What the Foundation did for this girl is awesome. I know what it's like not being able to keep a horse in your backyard. GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR NEW HORSE!!!!!
- Jessica
08/30/2006
10:46
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My daughter, Dernelle, just received a wish from your foundation. It brought so much joy to our entire family. The staff of Make-A-Wish Foundation were wonderful. I applaud you for the strength and support you give to our families, especially the children who sometimes lose hope. Keep up the good work and may you all be blessed.
- Laurel
05/25/2007
21:44
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All of these kids go through alot. Thank God for Make-A-Wish, along with everyone else that helps and donates, so these kids can forget about everything for a while when their wishes come true.
- Janice
08/31/2007
10:42
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I wish you all the best with your horse! I am 19 years old and a little over 5 years ago, I made a wish through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. I as well was blessed enough to have my dream of owning my own horse come true!! It was most definitely the most amazing thing to ever happen to me! Both my horse and I are currently living great, healthy lives! Enjoy your horse! It's definitely one of the best gifts a young girl could ever receive!! Take care!!!
- Haley
10/22/2007
21:30
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