This is my sister, my neice, and my sister's best friend, Big City.
Yesterday, while Big City was "working" with a little autistic boy on his back, my sister noticed that his legs were wobbling and he was trying as hard as he could to stay standing so he wouldn't drop his little charge. She ran over to get the little boy off of him, and as soon as she did, Big City collapsed. She called the vet, who did everything he could, but at about 3:00am, Big City gave up his valiant fight and died.
I rushed over to be with my sister as soon as I heard, and needless to say, there have been alot of tears today, and I have a feeling they may fill buckets before we're thru.
My slice of life today feels a little painfuL...but that's kinda how life is isn't it.
Somehow the love never dies nor the memory fades. Always the horse touch our lives by tying our hearts deeply and unselfishly within their own. Big City clearly understood this magic and how blessed he was to have your family and friends in his life.
My heart goes out to you and your sister. No doubt a very sad loss and a massive heartbreak to endure. Such a special horse, that no doubt brought so much happiness to so many. My condolences.
What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful horse and his owner! I admire your sister and what she does for handicapped children, and the horses that so lovingly carry those children. Loosing an animal like that has got to be very hard. My thoughts and are with you and your sister and her family. Thank you for sharing the story and the beautiful image!
Sandy I am sitiing here with tears rolling down my face and the kids wondering why I am crying! I cant help it stories like this touch my heart I feel for you, your sister and her family, Big City and all the kids he helped. What a beautiful photo as a tribute I hope it goes on your sisters wall.
Animals bring us such joy in life. Whether they be a dog or a horse, once you have made that love connection, having to say goodbye can be as painful as saying goodbye to any family member. My heart hurts for you and your sister as you comfort each other. What an awesome tribute photo to give to your sister. Very nicely edited Sandy!
Oh jeez, Sandy. The photo hasn't even loaded yet and I'm sobbing from your story. Why is it that animals touch us so deeply? I suppose because we are their protectors and they can't speak for themselves.
Big City probably made a big difference in a lot of kids' lives. May he enjoy his well deserved rest and stay in your memory.
This story has touched me deeply, moved me beyonnd words.....
It makes me feel so sad, and you are such a beautiful person not only to photograph this amazing horse, but the story of what this wonderful horse meant to everyone around him.
THANK YOU Sandy for sharing Big City's story, and love to you and your family.....
Your stories and imagery are always so meaningful Sandy, even when sad, and today is no different. Yet this STILL has a sense of beauty and happiness to it. We can see many things of joy here, such as your love of family, your sister's pleasure in helping others, and even the story within (of the autistic child enjoying a ride).
I know that such events in life hurt, but be proud of the fact that you (and your entire family, it seems!) are constantly LIVING in ways that are inspirational and happy and joyful. As always, thank you for sharing YOUR slices of life Sandy.
Glenda & I hope you find solace, in the smiles you give people every single day.
Horses are so smart and knowing. You made this image into the nicest tribute.. to that valiant horse with the cool name. Amazing story, and I am sooo sorry for your loss. Nothing can replace creatures like Big City. I can feel your pain. I'm truly sorry about everyone's sorrow. Thanks for sharing your story and wonderful image.
thats the saddest thing sandy .. that beautiful horse .. incredible that he stayed upright long enough for the little child to be taken off his back .. i'm so sorry for your sister's loss .. losing a beloved animal hurts like hell .. this photograph/process is a wonderful tribute to that heroic horse and for your sister as well .. :)
Sandy, I literally have tears in my eyes from your story. I'm so sorry for you and your family's loss. Our four legged friends become as close as our family members, and losing one is always sorrowful. Your wonderful photo is a real tribute to your love for Big City.