I wish to have a horse
Madison
14
osteosarcoma
Madison’s life is dedicated to horses and competitions. Last year, her parents had plans to buy her a horse. But then Madison was diagnosed with osteosarcoma and started nine months of grueling treatments that derailed all their plans. After visiting Madison for the first time, her volunteer wish granters had no doubt what her wish would be – she wanted her own horse. Madison explains this is her wish because, “it’s my passion and I wouldn’t want to do anything else with my life.”
Two days after her last chemo treatment and a week before her 15th birthday, Madison went to an equestrian show for a relaxing day with her family. Little did she know that the wish she made - to have her own horse - would come true. When she was called to center ring, she was shocked. Her family, friends and Make-A-Wish supporters were there to present her with her new best friend - Cos. Madison had trained with Cos before and has a true connection with him.
When Cos entered the ring to greet Madison, he wrapped his neck around her with the affection of a life-long friend. She aspires to compete in equestrian events and now has the perfect partner for success – Cos is a retired thoroughbred who is now a jumping horse. Madison's mother said, "Make-A-Wish means the world to us. It makes it bearable - makes it worth it in the end. I cannot begin to express my gratitude. I'm overwhelmed with emotions right now."
Wish Granters: Clara Ko & Aleesha Wilson
Referred by Samantha Utter, her child life specialist
Wish adopted by Mr. Richard Polidori
Photos courtesy of Gabriela Barbosa Photography, Jeff Barzey, Crystal Lugo Photography.
