My name is Lori and my daughter Raelynn is going through a very difficult time. While I cannot share the details of Raelynn's past, as that will be her story to tell when she is older, I can say that Raelynn was adopted when she was almost 5, and due to her early childhood, she has had to overcome many challenges. She is 13 now and the future of her best friend, her horse Kirby, is uncertain. Kirby became ill early this week. He has an injury which is going to require considerable medical care and expense.

Kirby has played a vital role in Raelynn's development and treatment of her own illnesses. He has taught her things about empathy and trust when people, professionals included, could not. He has taught her the value of hard work and determination.

Kirby is going to require considerable veterinary care and support in order to heal. The details of exactly what he will require to heal are still being determined. There is no doubt that this is going to be a long and expensive process.

I am not one who has ever been good at asking for help, but I know this is more than what I can afford to do on my own. As a parent, the drive to provide for and protect our children is immense. The drive is strong enough for me to set aside my pride and ask for help.

In the event that donations exceed expenses, any remaining funds will be donated to charity.