Crossroads Hospice’s Gift of a Day Program Makes Dreams Reality
Marion Roberts, a 95-year-old equestrian enthusiast under the care of Crossroads Hospice, had a lifelong dream that seemed unattainable—to visit the Budweiser Clydesdales at their Warm Springs Ranch home in Boonville, Missouri, and share a moment with these majestic creatures.
A Wish Ignited by a Lifelong Love for Horses
Roberts, whose love for horses began at the tender age of 7 when she received her first pony, had an illustrious past as a trick rider for rodeos during her teenage years. Her deep affection and connection with horses made her wish to meet the famous Clydesdales a cherished dream.
The Gift of a Day Program: Creating Unforgettable Memories
Crossroads Hospice’s Gift of a Day Program, inspired by Jim Stovall’s book The Ultimate Gift, focuses on granting patients’ deepest wishes, tailoring each experience to their unique passions and desires. Mary Krause, a representative of Crossroads, expressed, “We try to give all of our patients one perfect day. Each one is as unique as our patients.”
More: A Dream Fulfilled: 9-Year-Old Alex Meets Budweiser Clydesdales Thanks to Make-A-Wish
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience at Warm Springs Ranch
While Warm Springs Ranch typically isn’t open to the public early in the year, Anheuser-Busch, the company behind the Clydesdales, graciously opened its doors to fulfill Roberts’ dream. Despite the ranch not being open to visitors, they made a heartfelt exception for Roberts, offering her an exclusive tour and ample time to bond with the Clydesdales—allowing her to pet, kiss, and bask in the presence of these magnificent creatures.
Collaboration Making Dreams Possible
Krause highlighted the importance of collaborations with companies like Anheuser-Busch, stating, “We have been very blessed to have generous companies and individuals volunteer their time, talents, and facilities for our patients.” Such partnerships make these heartfelt moments possible, creating lasting memories for patients like Roberts.
A Day of Unforgettable Joy and Lasting Legacy
Marion Roberts’ day at Warm Springs Ranch wasn’t just about meeting her equine idols; it was a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for kindness and the enduring power of fulfilling dreams. Her radiant smile and the sparkle in her eyes while petting and bonding with the Clydesdales echoed the immeasurable happiness that simple moments can bring, transcending the boundaries of age or circumstance.
This heartwarming experience stands as a testament to the profound impact of Crossroads Hospice’s Gift of a Day Program. By going above and beyond to fulfill Roberts’ wish, they not only brought her joy but also created a legacy of compassion and love. Their commitment to making each day count for their patients speaks volumes about the importance of cherishing life’s simplest pleasures and honoring individual passions.
Moreover, the collaboration between Crossroads Hospice and Anheuser-Busch showcased the beauty of unity and shared humanity. It exemplifies how organizations, driven by empathy and goodwill, can collaborate to create moments that transcend the ordinary, leaving indelible imprints on the hearts of individuals.
Marion Roberts’ one-on-one encounter with the Clydesdales at their home embodies the essence of resilience, hope, and the unwavering spirit that resides within us all. It’s a testament to the fact that dreams, no matter how big or small, are worth pursuing and that the kindness of others can turn these dreams into remarkable realities.
As the sun set on that extraordinary day at Warm Springs Ranch, it marked not just the end of a visit, but the beginning of a cherished memory—a memory that will forever be etched in Marion Roberts’ heart and serve as an inspiration for anyone yearning to make their dreams come true against all odds.
