Support Gwen from Heart Surgery to Team Canada Championships

From Open Heart Surgery to Team Canada – Help Gwen Compete at NAYC (North American Youth Championships) 2025

Hi, I’m Gwen Joinson, I'm 14 years old, really determined, and living proof that a mended heart can still dream big.

I was born with complex congenital heart defects and have had three open-heart surgeries at BC Children’s Hospital, the most recent in October 2024. Hospitals, tests, and recovery have shaped a lot of my childhood, but horses have always been my constant, my therapy, and my joy.

Getting named to the 2025 Canadian Youth Team felt nearly impossible right after surgery, yet I surprised even my surgeons and doctors. I’ve been training nonstop ever since, wanting to get back in the dressage ring and give it everything I’ve got.

I started riding when I was five and fell in love with dressage when I was eleven. With lots of hard work I am currently top-ranked in Canada and 116th in the world for my FEI Children's division—and now I’ve earned the honor of representing Team Canada in Dressage at the North American Youth Championships (NAYC) in Traverse City, Michigan, July 26 – August 3, 2025.

This is the biggest opportunity of my life, and the dream that got me through my last surgery. But getting myself and my horse, Bentley, across the country isn’t cheap. Between travel (human flights, Bentley’s land transport), accommodations, and remaining entry and stabling fees, the costs top $15,000 CAD.

My family is doing everything they can, but but it's alot. If you’re able, I’d be so grateful for your support. Every donation, big or small goes directly toward making this journey possible, and I’ll share updates and photos so you can ride along with us.

Thank you, from the bottom of my mended heart, for believing in me. I hope my story shows other kids with congenital heart defects that nothing is too big to dream or too far to ride.

With love,

Gwen