Paul Florendo
Sponsor: Massa Peal Catering

So. Dakota
Jaycie (Age 6)
Head Injury

Jaycie, 6, grew up on a ranch near Phillip, S.D., so naturally horses were one of her greatest loves. One winter day, her mother was competing in a rodeo and had just completed a routine horse exercise in the empty arena when Jaycie begged her to give her a ride. Her mom agreed and began leading Jaycie and the horse around the arena. Unlike so many past peaceful rides before, this time the horse was spooked and began running at full speed while Jaycie desperately tried to hold on. Eventually Jaycie was thrown off of the back of the horse, with a strike to the head. She was rushed to Rapid City Regional Hospital and immediately underwent brain surgery.

Jaycie’s head injury damaged brain tissue and resulted in the left side of her body being severely disabled. Since her surgery and with significant rehab and a joyful resolve to get better, Jaycie has shown amazing improvement.

The determination and strength of Jaycie have been apparent as she accelerated through the recovery process and improved significantly faster than anyone imagined. She has certainly shown the strength of a champion and embodies the attitude of hope.