My daughter and I had both been struggling and battling PTSD after we witnessed a fatal fire that claimed the lives of two people that we loved dearly.

I was at a loss of how to get back to normal and as a mom it was heartbreaking watching my daughter suffer. We were in therapy and my daughter was in riding lessons, but were still missing something.

Then I discovered the West Virginia Horse Network. We started volunteering and healing. I wasn’t ready to adopt a horse, but then came along our best friend named Pilgrim. The moment I laid eyes on him I knew God had sent him to us so we could all heal together. I promised him that he would always have us.

Pilgrim and I connected on a different level. He loved my daughter so much too. He would just instantly soften when he heard her coming.

We couldn’t wait until the rescue said he was fully rehabilitated and cleared for adoption. The moment they gave me the green light to apply, I went to work on the adoption application. A week later Pilgrim was finally part of our family!

We have gone through many ups and downs over the past year and a half including my health and Pilgrim’s health. We have stuck right by each other’s side and always will. I am thankful I adopted my best friend.

What #RightHorse means to me

The right horse is not always instant and takes work. I was blessed to know instantly Pilgrim was the right horse for my family. I also have put countless hours into strengthening our relationship. I encourage people to find a rescue horse that meets their needs and compliments their personality. The bond can be formed with sweat, tears and dedication.