Haley's Horse Spunky Still Providing Wonderful Memories
At birth, I was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. As a result, everyday is filled with taking lots of medicines and doing breathing treatments. However, I've made the best out of what I've had to deal with and a very special gift came out of it. In October of 2002 at the age of 14, I was granted a wish. When given the opportunity to make a wish, I knew exactly what I wanted it to be. I had been horseback riding for about three years and wanted my very own horse!
I remember the first time I saw her. I went to the barn that day for a riding lesson. My instructor pointed to a new horse that I didn't know and said, "You will be riding Spunky today and if you like her, she's yours!" I didn't even have to ride her to know that I wanted her.
Spunky is a beautiful Morgan mare. I've owned her for a little over seven years now. Spunky loves to jump, and I have ridden her in both Hunter and Dressage shows. I still keep in touch with my wish volunteers and reminisce about the barn party that we had when Spunky officially became mine. I was also given a saddle, bridle and grooming supplies.
I am currently 22 years old and a student at Purdue University, majoring in Interior Architecture and Design. After I graduate, I hope to get involved with both residential and commercial design. My dream job would be to work as a designer on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.
On two different occasions, I have taken part in small group discussions with medical students at the University of Pittsburgh. I answered any questions they had about cystic fibrosis in hope that one day they would specialize in it and find a cure. In the summer of 2008, I was a marketing and communications intern for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. It was great working with the very people who helped make my wish come true. In the future, I would love to volunteer for the Make-A-Wish Foundation and help others enjoy the happiness and positive effects that a wish can bring.
Spot Says… Last year, we granted 356 wishes to Disney World or Disney cruises, went on 96 shopping sprees, met 33 celebrities, delivered 27 play sets or play houses and installed 23 swimming pools.
Marissa, 8, California Trip
