Pippa's Perfect Pony Party
I have a very special wish story to share with you...
When Pippa’s mum first approached us, it was after Polly, who cared for both Hannah and Pippa at the Royal United Hospital, mentioned Willberry’s Wishes. Pippa, aged 9, had spent the previous three years bravely fighting a spinal cord tumour, and she had one very special wish – to enjoy a real horse-riding adventure alongside the people she loved most. She wanted to share the experience with her two sisters and two cousins, making it a truly special family day.
I wanted Pippa to feel completely relaxed and able to enjoy every moment without worrying about any practical challenges. Hannah knew how important it was for the special people we help to feel relaxed and forget about everything else that is going on. I got straight to work and soon found the perfect place – Riding for the Disabled in Wilton. Sally and her amazing team were determined to make sure Pippa had the very best day possible, and before long all the plans were coming together.
After a little juggling to find a date that worked for everyone, we finally settled on 23rd May – perfect timing for the half-term break. The day approached very quickly, and I have to say I had it all covered – venue, ponies, helpers, photographer, goody bags, picnic tea AND CAKE... because we all need cake!
When the day arrived, the sun was shining and it was very warm. We met Sally and her team early to finalise the plans before welcoming Pippa, Maddie, Eliza, Holly and Sophie, along with their families. The girls arrived full of excitement and had even brought beautiful thank-you cards and drawings for everyone involved.
Soon, five gorgeous ponies walked into the riding school – one for each girl. Pippa was paired with a handsome pony called Sparky, and the girls were very excited and couldn’t wait to mount their rides!
After a few laps around the school to get comfortable in the saddle, it was clear that all five girls were natural riders. Before long, they headed out into the woodland, where they chatted happily to their ponies and the volunteers leading them, eager to learn everything they could about their four-legged friends. It made my heart pound when I was allowed to sit on Sparky’s mane for a photograph with Pippa in the woodland!
The ponies behaved beautifully throughout the ride and, back at the riding school, the girls helped untack their ponies before grooming them and giving them their well-earned tea. Pippa particularly enjoyed pampering Sparky, who was looking especially shiny by the time she had finished.
Then Sally asked if the girls would like to take the ponies to their paddocks for the evening. The girls were thrilled! I could barely keep up as ponies and riders headed off together. Pippa certainly wasn’t going to miss out and sent her dad off for a super-nifty gadget for her wheelchair. Within seconds, she was motorised and travelling alongside Sparky as he made his way to his paddock.
I have to say Sparky was a little hungry (and a little bit rude!). He kept diverting to the grass verge for a good mouthful whenever he could. He was super determined and surprisingly strong when food was involved!
After such an exciting afternoon, everyone gathered in the RDA meeting room for a picnic tea, refreshing cold drinks and, naturally, cake. The wonderful RDA volunteers joined us for tea while the girls chatted and giggled about their afternoon adventures.
To round off the occasion, each girl received a rosette and a goody bag to remember Pippa’s Willberry’s Wish.
It was a truly magical afternoon filled with smiles, laughter and precious family memories. Watching Pippa enjoy every moment alongside her sisters and cousins was incredibly special, and we are so grateful to everyone who helped make her wish come true.
Pippa, keep being the amazing girl you are. ❤️
Lots of love,
Willberry
A special thank you to the amazing team at RDA, Wilton and to Ellie Grimsey Photography.
Fund vital research into osteosarcoma, an aggressive form of bone cancer that mainly affects children and young adults.
Help us grant more 'Willberry’s Wishes' to seriously ill people and their families, creating magical horsey memories and bringing smiles during the toughest times.
