Six-year-old McKenzie from Ridgley, Maryland, loves pink, Frozen, and all things horses. Her passion and zest for life is infectious, amid her health struggles. During her time in the hospital when she was first diagnosed with cancer three years ago, McKenzie watched the movie Spirit on repeat and fell in love with the majestic creatures while undergoing treatment.  

So, it is no surprise that when the opportunity of being granted a wish with Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic presented itself, McKenzie chose to meet the real-life Spirit in-person. Upon arriving in California with her parents and brother, McKenzie’s wish trip was a whirlwind of excitement!   

When the family arrived at the Return to Freedom Wild Horse Sanctuary, a haven for 400 wild horses and 29 burros, McKenzie was invited to join a celebratory luncheon for Spirit’s birthday. She eagerly brushed the horse, led him around the barnyard, and even fed him a special birthday meal of apples.  

McKenzie and her younger brother were also treated to a three-hour horse experience, which included learning about horse communication and behavior, decorating a horse’s mane and tail with flowers and hair ribbons, and riding several horses around the sanctuary.   

Her instant connection with the tall and fearless Kiger Mustang made the trip a life-changing experience for McKenzie. Her time at the sanctuary will no doubt serve as motivation on her recovery journey and inspire a lifetime pursuit of horseback riding and appreciation for the beautiful animals.  

We would like to thank Return to Freedom for their continued work with Make-A-Wish Foundation in granting wishes to children with critical illnesses such as McKenzie. The RTF staff involved in facilitating her experience and the sanctuary’s willingness to provide a safe and magical environment created unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.