Never in my life have I had a greater bond with another horse or human. The beginning of the summer in 2009, my life changed in ways I could never imagine it could. I found a pony that was not only a pet, but also my best friend. He helped me achieve activities I have dreamed of doing ever since I was a little girl, including jumping at my first bsja competition, galloping along the beach and swimming in the sea.
A day in March 2010, I took Del to a show jumping competition and I was completely unaware of the disaster which was about to occur. I could tell Del was jumping unusually in the warm-up arena, but I thought it could have been due to stiffness as he had been stabled overnight. I jumped my round and was a very happy girl when I found out I had won the class and qualified for the Chiltern and Thames Finals. There was a break before my next class began so I took Del back to the trailer and that was when he suddenly collapsed and was unable to walk.
After months of vet visits, x-rays and box rest, the news I dreaded hearing was broken to me. There was nothing they could do, I was going to lose my noble companion. The date was set for July 17, 2010.
Until that day, I never knew what I really had until he was gone and still to this day I have not been able to allow myself to get close to another horse due to the fear of losing it.
You changed my life, Del. You gave me a year I will never forget and I can only thank you for that. There is always a place for you in my heart and I promise I will never ever forget you.
You're in the arms of the angels now and they'll look after you. We'll meet again but until then...Stay safe! Rest In Soft Peace my beautiful boy!
All my love,
Becky
North Astor Del 
