Ella McGarva is a gifted 14-year-old rider whose heart, discipline, and joy all live in the dressage arena. From early mornings at the barn to quiet moments of trust and connection, horses have shaped who Ella is, and at the center of it all is her pony, Lexy.

Lexy is more than a competition partner. She is Ella’s best friend, her safe place, and the constant presence that has helped her grow not only as a rider, but as a young person.

Recently, what began as a routine hoof abscess took a devastating turn. Despite prompt care, the abscess progressed into a serious infection, putting Lexy’s life at risk. She is now in a critical fight to stabilize, requiring intensive veterinary treatment, including hospitalization, IV antibiotics, advanced diagnostics, specialized farrier care, and around-the-clock monitoring.

The situation is urgent, and the costs of life-saving care have mounted quickly, far beyond what any family can reasonably prepare for. Every day matters, and every treatment brings Lexy one step closer to survival.

Through all of this, Ella has shown extraordinary strength and maturity. She stays hopeful, visits Lexy whenever she can, and believes fiercely in her pony’s will to fight. Their bond, built on trust, patience, and love, is something truly special, and it deserves the chance to continue.

We are asking for your help to give Lexy the best possible chance to survive and recover. Every donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward critical veterinary care and keeping Lexy stable during this fight.

If you are unable to donate, sharing this story means the world.

Thank you for supporting Ella, Lexy, and a bond that defines what it means to love a horse.

Poem Ella wrote -

Dear dressage.

Poem By Ella McGarva.

Dear Dressage,

From the moment 

I stepped foot in the saddle

And rode my first test,

I knew you were the one.

I fell in love with everything about you,

The power you gave me,

And the girl you made me.

I worked and fought for you.

I challenged my mind and body for you.

I spent hours for you.

And you didn’t have to do anything in return.

All I needed to know was that you were there for me.

I dream of being in the arena,

Just me and my horse,

A crowd surrounding me, 

And a gold medal around my neck.

But these dreams can’t happen now,

And there is work to be done.

So I awaken from my dream,

Ready to toil again.

The girl you’ll always have,

• Ella