Sam Wolfe

When I first met Sam I was working as his horse handler. He came into the arena with his lips tight and eyes darting back and forth searching for someone familiar to him. As his mom followed behind and sat down, Sam began to pace back and forth looking at the clock. Time was very important to Sam and staying on schedule was paramount in his world. We had three minutes before his ride “officially” started but we knew we better be ready or Sam would be making a point of letting us know he was supposed to be in the saddle and moving. Once his instructor had him mounted class went quite well and Sam kept us all informed as to when the class should end. At the end of each riding lesson our riders are encouraged to thank their volunteers and their horses. Often the rider offers a handshake or a hug, but not Sam. He stood next to his horse and looked right over the top of my head. He wasn’t about to offer to touch me. He patted his horses head and left the arena. His instructor explained to me that Sam did not like to touch or be touched. That first meeting was 11 years ago. Fast forward to the present and I am still working in Sam’s class only now Sam is an independent rider and a college student. He is now comfortable talking to me about his day, he allows me to touch his leg as we walk him out of the mounting blocks and he even calls me by name. These are just of few of the things I have seen Sam grow into. He has grown up to be such a handsome young man. He is still very cautious about giving out hugs, but at ae State Special Olympics dance the night had come to an end and people were standing around saying good night and of course many were hugging. Upon seeing this Sam walked up to me, bid me good night and stepped close enough for a hug. With a smile on his face, he turned and walked away. My smile was much bigger and my heart was happy. This outstanding young man has come so far. I have watched him grow up, shared in his triumphs and his tragedy. Now when Sam comes into the arena looking for a familiar face and he sees mine, his search is over. My life is so much richer having this young man as a part of it.

~ Pat Dellemann ~