Instead, he rode on a pony, charmed complete strangers and got in another swim.
After a lazy Thursday that included a quick dip and dinner with a friend, we were all recharged. We got in the car and drove an hour to Pacific Riding for Developing Abilities, which provides "therapeutic riding and activies" to anyone with a disability.
Dominic, who alternately wears leg and arm braces as a result of the problems his brain tumours have caused, was a perfect candidate for a quick ride. Through our amazing friend Lorna Scott and Medicine Hat Mr. Lube owner Chris Hellman, contact was made with PRDA who were all too happy to help out.
Margo and the rest of the staff there were incredible, setting Dom up with a helmet and riding belt. They then brought out Ladybug, a pony whose height made it perfect for staff to walk on either side of Dom and keep him upright.
As they started around the indoor arena, he started giggling. By the time we went outside to the nearby trails, he was prodding Ladybug to giddy-up.
The entire ride lasted maybe 40 minutes, and he loved every second. Afterwards he got to meet a couple miniature horses, Charlie Brown and Linus. Lucy couldn't be convinced to come out of her stall.
On our way back to the hotel, we stopped for lunch at Luke's Corner Bar and Kitchen. We had to check that minors were allowed, but once inside an older couple immediately asked what Dominic's oxygen tube was for.
They were forward, and so was I. He's got leukemia, I said. We're on his wish trip. He has weeks to live.
Dom spent the entire meal eating Smarties and charming the staff. As we finished, the manager came by our table. She'd overheard our conversation.
"I'd like to do a random act of kindness and buy your meal," she said. "I can't imagine what you're going through."
We've been the beneficiaries of so many of these kindnesses, but this one caught us off-guard. We both started tearing up amid thank-yous.
Our wish trip will be over in a couple days. We wish it could never end, just like our time with Dominic.
But it is what it is.
Thank you for sharing your trip with us, I just caught up reading your blog. I am so glad your having such great memories as a family. So glad Dominic is having so much fun!
ReplyDeleteDominics giggle was the perfect way to start my morning. :-)
ReplyDeleteI take little credit for making this happen. I'm a humble messenger. It was Chris's connection via Mr. Lube who made the connection. Please add in thanks to Scott McDonald at Zajak Ranch for Children for the connection to PRDA. www.zajacranch.com
A week full of smiles, giggles, learning and loving. Those are the things that will stay in your hearts forever.
As always, thanks for sharing your journey with us all, and especially this wish trip, I pop on daily for updates and this wish trip is by far better than a Disney trip (in my opinion) would have been. Just look how much Dominic has done this past week, way to go ! And while you see all the love and support at the various places you've been, please know that there are folks like me on the sidelines, that have the same heart, the same wish that this was not to be, yet comforted with seeing Dominic have some extraordinary experiences, there is a love for all 3 of you pouring out from everywhere, even if you don't see it. May you gather strength from these memories. ~~In a previous posting you mentioned that parents have moments like this routinely, that may be true, but what we don't do is savour and enjoy them, truly, truly enjoy them. Thank you Dominic for showing a pure joy in the moment and not worrying about the next hour, the next day, the next week, just enjoy the NOW.
ReplyDeleteBeautifully said... Enjoy this moment and only this moment at the moment!
DeleteSuch an incredible time building smiles, giggles but mostly memories for each of you Sean and Trish. I have read you journal, every mountain climbed... every valley crossed...
ReplyDeleteThank you for being so transparent with your hearts exposed for all who read. Awareness is what will make a difference. Sadly not for our children but for the children in the future.
Thanks for taking the time to keep us updated, I will continue to laugh when you laugh, to cheer when you cheer and cry when you sob.
Sending always love, hope and prayers.
Blessings... Anne
much love to your family xxx I must admit to crying all through the video, until the end where Dominic starts giggling like crazy from running the pony. My tears stopped at that second, and Dominic made me giggle too. I am so glad you have all met such wonderful people and groups on this trip. Your family is in my thoughts every day xxx
ReplyDeleteThis was an unreal post.
ReplyDeleteThat video is truly the best. I had to watch it a few times.
You are so kind and generous to share all of this with us.
What a special family you all are.
xox