by Stacey Foxworthy

Created on: November 06, 2008

We had always been the best of friends. I had watched with delight as she grew from a skittish little girl into an energetic, strong-willed young teenager. Since being adopted by this adoring family Melanie and I had developed a bond that would stand the test of time. We were inseparable even in death.

Melanie's family operated a small non-profit farm that catered to the families of children suffering from various cancer afflictions. They offered trail rides in the spring and summer months, hay rides during the fall season, and sleigh rides in the winter. I was proud to be apart of such a heart-warming cause that brought so much happiness and love to others.

My main job was to lead the hay rides and sleigh rides in the latter part of the year. It was the best job in the world...to be intrinsically linked to the bright, smiling faces and giggling laughs of these brave children and their families made it all worthwhile. Melanie at age 14 along with her older brother Michael age 22 and younger brother Trevor age 8 were intimately involved in the program their parents had created and organized to help sick children and their families. They made an amazing team.

Melanie and I had shared a special bond. We would frolic together in the wavy fields of grain and take long trail rides along the streams that meandered through the property. I loved her with all my heart. She was the most gentle and kind-hearted girl in the world. I looked forward to each and every moment I would spend with my beloved Melanie.

One particularly beautiful summer day Melanie and I had been traipsing through the lush green fields of barley when she suddenly began to stumble. Concerned I turned to face her watching in horror as her eyes rolled back into her head and she plummeted to the ground unconscious. Rushing to her side I nudged her gently with my muzzle. She was warm to the touch and I could tell immediately that she was still breathing though her breaths were shallow. I snorted loudly and stomped around her cautiously with my heavy hooves but she would not wake.

Frightened and confused I lifted my head high in the air and let out a loud, blaring squeal to try and attract the attention of anyone around who may be able to help. I pranced around her carefully continuing to try and coax her from her unconscious state but my efforts were fruitless. Alarmed I realized that it was up to me to get help for Melanie fast. I raced with everything I could muster toward the farmhouse, skidding to an abrupt

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