This Memorial Day weekend didn’t go as planned. As the spouse of a veteran, I deeply revere this day and the incredible individuals who have fought and continue to fight for our country. Like many families, we intended to spend quality time together, honoring memories. However, the weather had other plans for us here in Oklahoma.

Touchdown –

Early Sunday morning on May 26th, an EF3 tornado hit Claremore, Oklahoma with little to no warning. The supercell stretched many counties, taking homes, powerlines, trees, and several lives with it. It’s said that about 700 to 800 homes and numerous businesses have been affected. Most of my family has recently moved to the area, and we’re so incredibly thankful that all of our homes were miraculously just outside of the path of destruction… but one of our dear friends was not so lucky. 

Our incredible friend, Abby Staab’s facility at Staab Equestrian took a direct hit.

Story time –

About a year ago, Abby welcomed me and my beloved horse, Charlie, into her facility with open arms. Despite being new to the area, she made us feel like old friends, thoughtfully accommodating Charlie’s unique needs as an older horse. It’s been an absolute joy getting to know Abby, her amazing family, and witnessing the deep care she has for her facility, horses, and boarders.

Staab Equestrian fell victim to the catastrophic effects of the tornado. Buildings were flattened, trucks and trailers displaced and unrecognizable, fences demolished like toothpicks, and worst of all, several horses were lost. When I heard Abby’s place was hit, I rushed to help in any way I could. It seemed like the entire local equestrian community came out – a testament to the family-like bond we share here in Claremore. Witnessing the incredible strength, support, and generosity of our community in the wake of destruction has been like nothing I’ve ever seen before.

Although it will take time, the community and the amazing Staab Equestrian family are working hard to rebuild. For those interested in supporting their recovery efforts, I’ve included the link to their GoFundMe below.

Staab Equestrian GoFundMe Page

On the other side of this chaos, I’m deeply inspired by our unbelievable community. We’ll rebuild, piece by piece, for a stronger and brighter tomorrow.