Changing our stars

Times Reporter

 

Any horse lover will tell you there is a special bond between them and their horse, and a love that only another horse lover would understand. When Rebecca Richardson and Kelsey Simpson became aware of a young girl, who spends most of her time confined to a wheelchair, was dreaming of owning her own horse and tack they knew they had to help. 

“It’s kind of in a partnership with the Rainbow Society and it’s for kids with disabilities or that are ill. We’re helping them out, and we’re helping to fill a little girl’s wish to own her own horse and tack. We know what it’s like, the connection with horses, and we know what having a horse bug is like, so we want to help her out,” said Richardson. 

“I’m actually really excited about it, I think it’s really cool because what we’re doing it for is really cool. I have heard stories of kids and horses, and a kid with a disability can find a horse that they can love and care (for), and it can be their own,” said Simpson.

“I think it’s really cool that we get to be a part of that. I think it’s really exciting because I myself have had so much contact with horses and know how awesome they can be.”

The girls had found out about the Rainbow Society through Simpson’s dad Tim, and have been planning ways to raise funds since. On March 31 the girls are hosting their first annual ‘Changing our Stars’ fundraising dinner and entertainment. There will be a silent auction, a pinball tournament, a golf chipping contest and a magician to keep the crowd entertained. 

Some of the items for the silent auction include artwork, an $8,000 listing commission donated by a realtor in Calgary, a night in the Canmore Hotel and breakfast, Lakeside Green Golf Course and Country Club donated two rounds of golf with a rental as the prize for the golf game competition. 

Dale Janz with CTV did an interview with the girls for his Inspired Albertans segment, which aired on March 21. 

Special guests at the fundraiser will include Janz, Mayor of Chestermere Patricia Matthews, and Bruce McAllister, Wildrose candidate for Chestermere Rocky View area.

“Our goal is to get this girl her horse,” said Simpson.

“It’s been a great opportunity…because we get to give back. So many people have been so helpful to us and it’s so nice to have the experience to be able to give back,” said Richardson. 

The fundraiser is being held at the Lakeside Greens Golf Course and Country Club in Chestermere on March 31. Tickets are $60 and the night begins at 5:30 p.m. To order tickets or to donate an item to the auction please contact Paula Richardson or Tim Simpson by leaving a message at 403-901-9312 or emailing copperhardwood@shaw.ca. The girls are requesting people RSVP before March 21.