DPChallenge: A Digital Photography Contest You are not logged in. (log in or register) 
 
Challenge Entries
This image is not a part of any challenge.
Portfolio Images
Good Bye Old Friend
Good Bye Old Friend
SandyP


Photograph Information Photographer's Comments
Collection: Horses
Date Uploaded: Oct 21, 2007

Viewed: 463
Comments: 21
Favorites: 0

 This is my sister, my neice, and my sister's best friend, Big City.

Yesterday, while Big City was "working" with a little autistic boy on his back, my sister noticed that his legs were wobbling and he was trying as hard as he could to stay standing so he wouldn't drop his little charge. She ran over to get the little boy off of him, and as soon as she did, Big City collapsed. She called the vet, who did everything he could, but at about 3:00am, Big City gave up his valiant fight and died.

I rushed over to be with my sister as soon as I heard, and needless to say, there have been alot of tears today, and I have a feeling they may fill buckets before we're thru.

My slice of life today feels a little painfuL...but that's kinda how life is isn't it.




Please log in or register to add your comments!

AuthorThread
 02/18/2013 04:33:37 PM
Somehow the love never dies nor the memory fades. Always the horse touch our lives by tying our hearts deeply and unselfishly within their own. Big City clearly understood this magic and how blessed he was to have your family and friends in his life.
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/26/2007 02:35:41 PM
Sandy - sorry to hear about Big City, he's a handsome looking horse and this is such a happy picture.

But tell me - where did he get such an intriguing name ?
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/26/2007 02:08:32 PM
awwwww...sorry to hear about your big boy. :(
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/25/2007 01:05:30 PM
My heart goes out to you and your sister. No doubt a very sad loss and a massive heartbreak to endure. Such a special horse, that no doubt brought so much happiness to so many. My condolences.
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/25/2007 10:40:04 AM
Ah, Sandy! Beautiful tribute to a beautiful horse.
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/22/2007 04:21:54 PM
Really sad story.
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/22/2007 03:33:40 PM
What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful horse and his owner! I admire your sister and what she does for handicapped children, and the horses that so lovingly carry those children. Loosing an animal like that has got to be very hard. My thoughts and are with you and your sister and her family. Thank you for sharing the story and the beautiful image!
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/22/2007 02:59:34 PM
Sandy I am sitiing here with tears rolling down my face and the kids wondering why I am crying! I cant help it stories like this touch my heart I feel for you, your sister and her family, Big City and all the kids he helped. What a beautiful photo as a tribute I hope it goes on your sisters wall.
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/22/2007 11:05:17 AM
Animals bring us such joy in life. Whether they be a dog or a horse, once you have made that love connection, having to say goodbye can be as painful as saying goodbye to any family member. My heart hurts for you and your sister as you comfort each other. What an awesome tribute photo to give to your sister. Very nicely edited Sandy!
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/22/2007 10:42:41 AM
Oh jeez, Sandy. The photo hasn't even loaded yet and I'm sobbing from your story. Why is it that animals touch us so deeply? I suppose because we are their protectors and they can't speak for themselves.

Big City probably made a big difference in a lot of kids' lives. May he enjoy his well deserved rest and stay in your memory.
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/22/2007 09:41:04 AM
Growing up you couldn't get me off my horse's back. Forty years later, I still miss her.
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/22/2007 08:35:27 AM
This story has touched me deeply, moved me beyonnd words.....

It makes me feel so sad, and you are such a beautiful person not only to photograph this amazing horse, but the story of what this wonderful horse meant to everyone around him.

THANK YOU Sandy for sharing Big City's story, and love to you and your family.....
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/22/2007 08:29:31 AM
Your stories and imagery are always so meaningful Sandy, even when sad, and today is no different. Yet this STILL has a sense of beauty and happiness to it. We can see many things of joy here, such as your love of family, your sister's pleasure in helping others, and even the story within (of the autistic child enjoying a ride).

I know that such events in life hurt, but be proud of the fact that you (and your entire family, it seems!) are constantly LIVING in ways that are inspirational and happy and joyful. As always, thank you for sharing YOUR slices of life Sandy.

Glenda & I hope you find solace, in the smiles you give people every single day.
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/22/2007 06:11:14 AM
Awwwwwwwwwwwww, Sandy! I am so sorry to hear about Big City. What an amazing life he had helping all of Judy's kids. Love you sister ! (big hug)
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/22/2007 04:43:28 AM
Horses are so smart and knowing. You made this image into the nicest tribute.. to that valiant horse with the cool name. Amazing story, and I am sooo sorry for your loss. Nothing can replace creatures like Big City. I can feel your pain. I'm truly sorry about everyone's sorrow. Thanks for sharing your story and wonderful image.
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/21/2007 11:35:14 PM
Honey girl!!! I am just so saddened for you and your family. What a lovely tribute to the beautiful animal.
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/21/2007 11:32:32 PM
Oh, Sandy, I'm so sorry to hear this sad news. Your sister will cherish this wonderful image.
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/21/2007 10:54:57 PM
(((hugs))) I'm sorry Sandy, and give your sister a hug for me too.
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/21/2007 10:50:11 PM
thats the saddest thing sandy .. that beautiful horse .. incredible that he stayed upright long enough for the little child to be taken off his back .. i'm so sorry for your sister's loss .. losing a beloved animal hurts like hell .. this photograph/process is a wonderful tribute to that heroic horse and for your sister as well .. :)
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/21/2007 10:40:58 PM
What a touching story. I'm sorry for your sadness and your sister's loss. That's amazing that Big City stayed standing until the little boy was safe.
  Photographer found comment helpful.
 10/21/2007 10:33:14 PM
Sandy, I literally have tears in my eyes from your story. I'm so sorry for you and your family's loss. Our four legged friends become as close as our family members, and losing one is always sorrowful. Your wonderful photo is a real tribute to your love for Big City.

edited for spelling

Message edited by author 2007-10-21 22:34:31.
  Photographer found comment helpful.


Home - Challenges - Community - League - Photos - Cameras - Lenses - Learn - Help - Terms of Use - Privacy - Top ^
DPChallenge, and website content and design, Copyright © 2001-2025 Challenging Technologies, LLC.
All digital photo copyrights belong to the photographers and may not be used without permission.
Current Server Time: 04/03/2025 09:18:17 AM EDT.